TPU is a polymer material that combines the characteristics of rubber and plastic and is widely used in electronics, cables, automotive, medical, footwear materials, and other fields. With the continuous improvement of material performance requirements in industrial manufacturing, TPU's chemical resistance has gradually become an important indicator for evaluating its suitability. This article will provide a scientific analysis of the basic principles, performance advantages, and main application scenarios of TPU chemical resistance.
TPU chemical resistance refers to the material's ability to maintain its original physical and mechanical properties without being corroded, degraded, or dissolved when exposed to various chemicals (such as oils, solvents, acidic and alkaline substances). TPU's molecular structure comprises soft segments (polyether or polyester) and hard segments (isocyanates), and this microphase-separated structure endows it with good elasticity and chemical stability.
Different types of TPU have different chemical resistance properties. For example, polyether-based TPU usually performs better in hydrolysis resistance and low-temperature flexibility, while polyester-based TPU has advantages in oil resistance and solvent resistance.
TPU can maintain structural stability when exposed to mineral oils, lubricating oils, and animal fats, making it widely used in seals, gaskets, and fuel hoses.
TPU is highly resistant to most alcohols, esters, and hydrocarbon solvents, making it suitable for use in solvent-based glue encapsulation and cable sheathing environments.
Although TPU is not suitable for long-term use in strong acid or strong alkaline environments, it has much better stability than traditional plastics in neutral or weak acid-alkaline mediums.
TPU not only has good chemical stability in regular environments but also maintains good performance in humid, high-temperature, seawater, and other complex conditions.
Automotive industry: Used to make fuel system seals, fuel hose outer layers, and cable sheaths. TPU chemical resistance effectively prevents oil erosion, extending service life.
Medical devices: In components such as medical hoses and catheters that need to contact disinfectants or drugs, TPU materials can resist corrosion from various chemical reagents, ensuring safe use.
Electronic appliances: TPU, as a cable sheathing material, exhibits excellent oil resistance, corrosion resistance, and aging resistance, and is commonly used in outdoor and industrial cables.
Footwear and sports goods: When used in making shoe soles, midsoles, or sports protective equipment, TPU is not easily corroded by sweat or cleaning agents, extending the product's lifespan.
