Polyureas are polyurea molecules which have developed a gelatinous structure. This structure is caused by the interference between two substances, with one being a carboxylic acid and the other a sugary substance. Polyureas are polymers having a broad range of uses in many industries. One of the most important reasons for their popularity is their cost effectiveness as compared to other synthetic alternatives like polyurea foam.
Polyurea is a kind of elastic elastomer which is obtained from a chemical reaction process by means of step-growth polymerisation. The polyurea can be aliphatic or aromatic in nature. The aromatic polyurea is synthesised through a reaction between two amino acids, followed by cross-reactions between the amino acids and one or more suitable organic bases. The major physical properties of polyurea are elasticity, stability and resistance to heat. These properties make polyureas highly useful as they allow a great degree of water resistance. This feature makes polyureas excellent for use in situations where high levels of physical resistance to heat are required.
The major physical properties of polyurea differ according to their form. The crystalline forms of polyurea (such as polyureas with uvular structure) exhibit unique physical properties. UV light does not disturb the crystal structure, allowing it to absorb and emit UV radiation. This property allows UV rays to pass freely through the uvular area of the crystalline structure without any hindrance. In this way, aliphatic polyurea protects electrical equipments and household appliances from exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Polyurethane is produced through the chemical reaction between the amino acids and sugars that produce a large amount of heat under specific conditions. The heat generated triggers the reaction which produces millions of heat shock cells. These cells produce tiny bubbles which expand to form bubbles of varying sizes depending on the conditions. When these bubbles reach a particular size, they bond together and lock into place. Polyurethane is used for industrial and domestic applications for its high level of flexibility, superior physical properties and moisture resistance.
Polyurethane has numerous advantages over other synthetic polyurea coatings such as Teflon and VOCs. It is highly durable due to its chemical resistance which means that high temperatures or prolonged exposure to moisture will not affect its durability. Polyurethane is also resistant to alkali attack and therefore can withstand high pressures. It also exhibits very good scratch resistance which allows it to be used in a wide range of applications. In addition, polyurethane coatings provide a high gloss and mirror like finish which is ideal for high traffic areas. This also ensures that the material remains unaffected by most liquids and will not degrade over time.
Polyureas are able to maintain their physical properties in aqueous conditions and therefore offer a distinct advantage over Teflon and VOC based coatings. It is also able to meet the demands placed on it by manufacturing applications. In addition, polyurea offers superior chemical and physical properties that help reduce energy consumption. This makes polyureas a cost effective solution that meets all of today’s complex manufacturing needs.
