LANXESS introduces two new low-free prepolymer technologies

The Urethane Systems business unit of specialty chemicals company LANXESS will present innovative material developments at this year's Polyurethane Manufacturers Association (PMA) annual meeting. Two new prepolymers manufactured using low free (LF) technology from the Adiprene series therefore have very low diisocyanate content. The PMA will take place between 7-9 August in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.  

Meeting the highest requirements

One of the most demanding applications for polyurethane casting systems is high temperature applications. As polyurethane chemistry has advanced over the years, casting systems are increasingly used in this high-performance segment. Ian Laskowitz, Application Development Manager for Urethane Systems at LANXESS, will highlight the new polycarbonate-based Adiprene LF TR400 high temperature prepolymer at the PMA meeting. [caption id="attachment_126699" align="aligncenter"] LANXESS researches and develops prepolymers at its pilot facility in Latina, Italy. Photo: LANXESS AG[/caption]   This low free TDI prepolymer is cured with MCDEA (4,4'-methylenebis(3-chloro-2,6-diethyl-aniline)). It is much easier to process compared to comparable prepolymer systems for high temperature applications. For example, it offers a manageable processing/casting life. The resulting cast elastomers demonstrate advanced high performance properties comparable to established polyurethane high temperature systems and exhibit excellent retention of properties at high temperatures. As a result, tear strength decreases hardly at all at elevated temperatures. Another strength is high resistance to thermal aging at 150 ⁰C.   Laskowitz's presentation will expand on the use of high temperature physical property testing by comparing this new prepolymer with standard cast urethane materials, as well as high temperature physical property retention following thermal aging at high application temperatures. The processing requirements of the materials will also be discussed.  

Easy processing and improved performance

LANXESS has developed a unique 1K blocked prepolymer based on caprolactam (CAP) blocked prepolymer and diamine hardeners, Adiprene K LFM E820. This will be the focus of a presentation at the PMA annual meeting given by Senior Chemist George Brereton. Less viscous blocked prepolymer systems based on LF technology allow for chemistries with unconventional raw materials, including more viscous polycarbonate polyols and unique amine types. These stable 1K systems provide processors with numerous advantages including increased control of the curing process and increased product consistency from batch to batch. With no restrictions on shelf life, these systems allow for processing of large parts, complex contour designs, and rotational molding of hollow parts. These systems can offer improved thermo-mechanical performance, ease of processing, and improved industrial hygiene. The diversity of possible applications for blocked LF prepolymers ranges from small thicknesses of 1-2 mm to truly large parts weighing several tons. For example, these systems are used in the impregnation of industrial belts as well as abrasive pad binders or coatings for industrial cylinders. Another advantage for the processor is the elimination of the need for a mixing and metering system that amortizes itself in terms of component costs. Potential applications include dynamic bending hardeners for thick cables such as submarine cables, industrial rollers, components for wind turbine rotor blades, or large composite structures.   The LANXESS Urethane Systems business unit is one of the world's leading polyurethane system suppliers for elastomers, coatings, adhesives and sealant products, specifically focused on solvent-free and monomer-free systems, and offers its customers decades of polyurethane chemistry expertise, comprehensive application expertise and deep production experience.