Dr. Zimmerman from the University of Illinois has developed a new class of compounds for the fabrication of repurposable polyurethane materials. The polyurethanes made from these compounds can be decomposed, under mild conditions, to useful alternative compounds and reused as adhesives with superior strength. Additionally, the polyurethanes made from these compounds exhibit nearly identical properties to those currently used in industry and are vitrimers that can self-heal.
Benefit
This invention minimizes the waste associated with the production and use of polyurethanes.
Application
Primary use is fabrication of polyurethane elastomers and foams for a variety of industrially relevant applications.
These relevant applications include manufacture of high-resilience foam seating, rigid foam insulation panels, microcellular foam seals and gaskets, durable elastomeric wheels and tires, automotive suspension bushings, electrical potting compounds, high-performance adhesives, surface coatings and surface sealants, synthetic fibers, carpet underlay, hard-plastic parts, condoms, and hoses.
