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The history of polyurethane dates back to 1849, when French chemist Auguste Wilhelm Wertz first synthesized isocyanate. Isocyanates are compounds that have NCO functional groups that can react with hydroxyl (OH) groups to form polyurethane polymers.
In 1937, Dr. Otto Bayer, a German chemist, synthesized the first polyurethane by reacting isocyanate with polyol. Polyols are compounds that have two or more hydroxyl groups in their structure. This new polymer had unique properties that made it suitable for various applications.
During World War II, polyurethanes were used as a substitute for rubber, which was scarce and expensive at the time. Also, they were used to making protective coatings for metals and wood.
After the war, the applications of polyurethanes expanded rapidly. They are used in a wide variety of products, including polyurethane foams, polyurethane fibers, polyurethane elastomers, and polyurethane coatings.
**The key stages in the development of polyurethanes are:**
* 1849: Wertz synthesized isocyanate.
* 1937: Bayer synthesized the first polyurethane.
* 1940: The first polyurethane elastomers were produced.
* 1953: The first industrial polyurethane foams were produced.
* 1958: Silicone surfactants and tin catalysts were developed to produce single-stage polyurethane foams.
* 1960: Polyurethane semi-rigid foams were used in car interior parts.
* 1969: Bayer used the injection molding method to manufacture plastic car parts.
Today, polyurethanes are one of the most widely used polymers in the world. They are used in a wide variety of products, including:
* Polyurethane foams: used for heat insulation, sound insulation, cushions and mattresses.
* Polyurethane fibers: used to make clothes, carpets and covers.
* Polyurethane elastomers: used to make shoes, tires and medical products.
* Polyurethane coatings: used to protect metals, wood and other materials.
Polyurethanes are suitable for various applications due to their unique properties, including strength, flexibility, stability and wear resistance. They are also recyclable and can be made from renewable resources.
In our beloved country of Iran, a famous industrial group that continues to produce polyurethane in the form of a knowledge-based company in 2015 under the name of Rasam Plimer Company, has 80 years of experience in trading and producing polymer materials and is still the largest producer and exporter. It is known as the specialized manufacturer of polyurethane in Iran, and the late Mohammad Nami, who was the founder of this company in 1322, can be considered the father of this industry.