Rubbers are a family of polymeric materials based on the chemistry of natural rubber latex. While there are many synthetic rubbers in the market, they share a basic chemical composition with natural rubbers. Rubber is a cost-effective solution for many applications, but its physical properties often prevent superior performance. Unlike rubber, polyurethane offers higher load-bearing capacity, better compression set, and superior tolerance to greases, oils, oxygen, and ozone. Because rubber is biodegradable, it tends to rot and degrade over time with exposure to the elements. But, man-made polyurethane can be easily formulated to outlast rubber and stand up to sunlight and outdoor environments.
Thermoset polyurethanes display much better physical properties than rubber, including:
- Higher load-bearing capacity and improved compression set
- Superior abrasion, cut, and tear resistance
- Better tolerance to greases, oils, oxygen and ozone
- Longer life, especially in outdoor or extreme environments
- Harder durometer ranges without sacrificing performance
Additionally, most cast polyurethanes can be formulated in colors that range from clear to opaque, in any color shade from black to white. This allows product designers to specify color to meet customer needs, simplify maintenance, ensure proper placement and to make it easier to detect wear or debris build-up.
To learn more how polyurethane can improve your product's performance, compared to other known materials - check out the following links below:
