What is the Difference Between Polyurethane and Urethane?

The terms "polyurethane" and "urethane" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different compounds. Urethane is a crystalline compound with the chemical formula C3 H7 NO2, which is an ester of carbonic acid. Polyurethane, on the other hand, is composed of multiple (or "poly") urethane units that are joined by a chemical reaction called polymerization. The main differences between the two are their properties and applications.

Urethane:

• Flexible and malleable
• Ideal for objects with different shapes and forms
• Commonly used in liquid form
• Found in pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines, insecticides, and some plastics
• Toxic to small animals

Polyurethane:

• Stiff and rigid
• Ideal for firmer items
• Has many advantages over natural rubber
• Used for solid materials such as shoes, foams, and paints
• Biodegrades very slowly and generally poses a low toxic risk

Despite these differences, both urethane and polyurethane are used in various applications, including coatings, flooring, insulation, furniture cushioning, and car parts. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as flexibility, durability, and cost.

Comparative Table: Polyurethane vs Urethane

The main difference between polyurethane and urethane lies in their chemical structures and properties. Here is a table comparing the two:

Polyurethane is a polymer (PU) made up of organic units of isocyanates and polyols, while urethane is a chemical group that is part of polyurethane. Due to its durable nature, polyurethane is used in the construction of products for long-term use and can withstand extreme heat or cold. On the other hand, urethane is soft and malleable, making it less suitable for long-term use. Both polyurethane and urethane are used in various applications, but polyurethane is more widely used due to its durability and versatility.