A NEW INVESTIGATION OF TETRAHYDROFURAN-BASED POLYETHER GLYCOLS IN URETHANE ELASTOMERS

Data are presented which demonstrate that random copolyether glycols with 50 mole % EO and low cyclic ether content represent novel soft segments for polyurethanes, and have some advantages over the other soft segments. THF/EO copolyether glycols are easier to handle and to process because they are liquids at room temperature and exhibit lower viscosities and better diol compatibility. Physical properties of polyurethanes made from THF/EO copolyether glycols are comparable to those made from other soft segments; the hydrolytic stability and low temperature behavior are superior to polyester and polycaprolactone glycols, and solvent/oil resistance is better than PTMEG. THF/EO copolyether glycol is a replacement for PTMEG only with reformulation; it could be considered for applications which require better solvent/oil resistance or easier handling and processability.