Urethane Elastomers Based on Hydroxyl Terminated Polybutadienes

Abstract

This article describes the preparation and properties of urethane elastomers based on hydroxyl-terminated polybutadienes. The liquid nature of these polybutadiene systems allows easy reaction with isocyanates even at ambient temperatures. Properties of elastomers produced can be easily improved by either chemical modification of the polymer backbone of the polybutadiene or the addition of solid reinforcing fillers, such as carbon black or clay. This article further describes the preparation of stable prepolymers of poly butadiene which can then be reacted with various diol or diamine chain extenders. Conceptually, the elastomers resulting from this technology would combine the properties of rubbers in having the ability to be oil extended or filler reinforced as well as having the high performance of cast urethane systems.