Advances in polyurethane chemistry allow formulators to customise coatings

Otto Bayer discovered polyurethane chemistry 75 years ago. Since that time, this versatile chemistry has evolved, ushering in a number of coatings technologies, including one- and two-component solventborne and waterborne chemistries, radiation-curing polyurethane coatings and polyurethane powder coatings formulations.

Visitors to the American Coatings Show (ACS) can learn about this evolution, as well as the roles isocyanates, isocyanate coreactants, aqueous polyurethane dispersions, UV-curable urethane acrylates and other polyurethane technologies play in a pre-conference tutorial highlighting the versatile chemistry of polyurethane coatings. ‘Tutorial 6 – Polyurethanes’ led by Mike Jeffries, strategic technology manager, Bayer MaterialScience LLC, will take place 10:30 a.m. – noon, Monday, May 7.

After delivering a synopsis of the fundamentals of polyurethanes, Jeffries will provide attendees with insight as to how formulators can use the structures of polyurethane systems to improve or enhance a coating’s performance in a myriad of end-use applications.

"Chemistry is the key to unlocking the unique properties of polyurethanes for use in coatings and adhesives. Tweaking the polyurethane chemistry allows formulators to fine tune their formulation to impart the specific performance characteristics needed for each coating’s application,” says Jeffries.

During his presentation, Jeffries will discuss mature markets that are utilising ‘new-to-them’ polyurethane chemistries in applications like personal care products – such as hairstyling, coluor cosmetics and skin care products that benefit from polyurethane’s film-forming properties. He will also highlight emerging technologies that can complement or improve the performance-enhancing abilities of polyurethane chemistry.

Stop by Bayer MaterialScience’s booth, #301, during the show to further discuss these technologies.