Waterborne polyurethanes (PUDs) are widely used in many applications, from household items to industrial machines. The unmatched performance, strength, elasticity and eco-friendliness of water-based polyurethane make it a perfect versatile material for many products.

As more industries try to adopt greener practices, they are replacing the traditional polyurethane with its water-based counterpart. Our manufactured PUDs are widely used in different industries; we have discussed some of the most common uses below:

1. Bedding & Seating

Waterborne polyurethane can be molded into foam that offers cushioning for different products such as bedding, seating, automotive interiors, etc. It provides comfort to people depending on its firmness, density and durability. For example, a softer material is used for baby mattresses, and more rigid and high-quality polyurethane foam is used for cushions, beds and automotive seating.

2. Elastomers

Elastomers, also known as elastic polymers, are one of the common applications of polyurethanes and can be found in many products such as paint rollers, gel pads and gaskets.

They are highly elastic and resilient, making them an ideal material for all these applications. For example, when used as gel pads, they have enough elasticity to mold according to the body’s shape and weight while maintaining a rigid composition to offer strong support. Once you remove these pads, they will go back to their original shape. Similarly, using them in paint rollers makes the work much more efficient due to the enhanced flexibility.

3. Thermal Insulation

Low-density polyurethane also offers thermal insulation in construction projects. Insulating the walls with water-based polyurethane helps keep the home at a comfortable temperature and significantly reduces electricity bills all year.

Due to its high durability and rigidness, polyurethane insulation can last for a long time, almost five decades, without any maintenance. Many commercial and residential properties use it to reduce their carbon footprint and energy consumption and save money.

4. Footwear

The elastic properties of polyurethane offer a supportive and comfortable base for footwear and have many benefits. Some specific footwear, such as athletic footwear, has polyurethane in the midsole, allowing the shoes to bend and stretch according to the foot’s natural motion and enhancing the users’ performance. Even after frequent use, the shoes return to their original form, staying in good condition for a long time.

Because it is heat resistant, polyurethane in footwear will not melt when washed in hot water. Moreover, it also offers natural protection against foot odor.

5. Coatings

Water-based polyurethane coatings are quite common in different industries due to their environmental friendliness. They offer an ultra-thin and protective coating for various materials, helping them maintain their condition for a long time.

For example, PUD coating on a wooden floor helps the wood to look good for a long time while protecting it against rotting and other issues. When applied to a car, it offers a protective varnish that prevents weather damage, dents, scratches and other issues and makes it look good as new. Due to its amazing benefits, many industries use polyurethanes to keep their products in excellent condition and offer a longer life span.

SIWO US Inc. is a research-based company and a leading polyurethane supplier in the US. We offer high-quality eco-friendly waterborne polyurethanes for different industry uses such as water-based synthetic leather, coatings, textile, etc. Contact us for more details.