The
other major contributor to the physical properties of urethanes
is the curative used. Millable gum urethanes may employ standard
peroxide and sulphur cure systems similar to other elastomers, but
thermoplastic and higher performance thermosetting materials employ
isocyanate cure systems. These may be of several basic types: |
MDI - Methylene bis-(4-phenylisoyanate) is commonly known as MDI
and is the second most common curative. Most often used in thermoplastic
materials.
TDI - 2,4-tolyene diisocyanate is known as TDI. Used in specialty
millable gums and some casting systems as well as in most foam urethane
materials; the most commonly used urethane curative in the world.
TODI - 3,3'-Dimethyldiphenyl-4,4'
diisocyanate is known as TODI. Imparts excellent heat resistance
properties along with superior mechanical properties.
PPDI - p-Phenylene diisocyanate is known as PPDI. With the best
heat resistance of any polyurethane currently on the market, PPDI
has found a home in applications requiring hysteresis resistance
and high temperature environments.