Polyurethane Elastomers Research Articles

Electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane membrane decorated with carbon nanotubes: A platform of flexible strain sensors for human motion monitoring

A piezoresistive flexible strain sensor was developed using thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPU) as the matrix and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as conductive fillers. Sensitivity, strain range, and tensile cycling stability were concurrently considered during its design. Electrospun TPU fiber membranes were prepared via electrospinning in this experiment, with controllable fiber diameter achieved by adjusting the rotational speed of the electrospinning receiving drum. CNTs were incorporated into a flexible polymer substrate through suction filtration to create the strain sensor. The support structure of the electrospun film served as a carrier for uniformly adhering conductive particles. Well-dispersed conductive CNTs could more easily achieve uniform loading through the pore size of the electrospun fiber film, thereby forming a conductive layer. This study initially determined the influence of TPU content in the spinning solution on the morphology of the electrospun membrane. Subsequently, the effects of CNT content and electrospinning receiving drum rotational speed on the microstructure of TPU electrospun membranes were investigated, along with their impact on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and sensing performance of CNTs/TPU (CT) flexible strain sensors. The results indicate that the electrospun fiber membrane prepared under the conditions of TPU mass fraction of 20 wt% and rotational speed of 100 r/min has a larger average fiber diameter and a more stable scaffold structure. The CNTs/TPU (CT) sensor, prepared by filtering 10 mL of CNTs with a concentration of 2 mg/mL, exhibited the best mechanical properties, with a tensile strength and elongation at break of 6.22 MPa and 575 %, respectively. Additionally, it demonstrated high sensitivity (GF = 420.17 at 200 % strain) and excellent durability stability (300 cycle tests), enabling quick and accurate responses to movements of various parts of the human body, thereby meeting the basic usage requirements of flexible strain sensors.

Recyclable and biodegradable bio-based polyurethane elastomers with exceptional mechanically properties

Bio-based polyurethanes (BPUs) have garnered significant attention due to their sustainable nature and potential to replace conventional petroleum-based PUs. This study delves into the synthesis, characterization, and application of a novel BPU variant, BPUPEG, derived from A-B-A triblock polyols. DSC tests highlighted the crystallization properties of the PEG block within BPUPEG, setting it apart from other BPU samples. Structural insights were further obtained from POM and WAXS tests, revealing the nanocrystalline structures and differences among the BPU samples. Mechanical testing showcased BPUPEGs superior fracture stress and strain, emphasizing its enhanced mechanical properties. Biodegradation experiments were conducted, underscoring the environmentally benign nature of all BPUs, with BPUPEG demonstrating a slower hydrolysis rate attributed to its PEG crystalline phase. Importantly, BPUPEGs degradation byproducts were ascertained to be non-toxic, emphasizing its eco-friendly attributes. The study also explored BPUPEGs recyclability, confirming its potential for multiple reuse cycles without degradation in mechanical properties. In conclusion, BPUPEG emerges as a sustainable, high-performance BPU, holding promise for diverse applications in the future, aligning with global sustainability and carbon reduction goals.

Researching the Influence of Preload on Vibration Characteristics in the Ballistic Recorder Vibration Damping System

In this study, the vibration characteristics of a bullet-loaded recorder’s vibration damping system under various preload conditions are investigated through theoretical analysis, numerical simulations, and experimental verification. The findings indicate that the inclusion of a polyurethane elastomer vibration damping buffer layer between the cartridge and the recorder, along with the application of a specific preload, significantly reduces the amplitude of vibration acceleration transmitted to the recorder’s interior. This, in turn, enhances the overload resistance of the cartridge’s internal circuit. Numerical simulation results and theoretical analysis suggest that increasing the preload on the buffer material between the elastomer and the recorder reduces both the frequency ratio and damping ratio of the damping system. This reduction further decreases the amplitude of vibration transmitted to the recorder. However, excessively high preload generates substantial compressive stress within the recorder under static conditions, intensifying during the projectile’s accelerated movement. As a consequence, deformation and damage occur to the internal circuitry. Therefore, ensuring that the recorder possesses the structural strength necessary to withstand increased preload is crucial. This balancing act improves the recorder’s resistance to shock, vibration, and overload, while also preventing excessive stress-induced damage.

Mechanically Ultra-Robust Fluorescent Elastomer for Elaborating Auxetic Composite.

Fluorescent elastomers are predominantly fabricated through doping fluorescent components or conjugating chromophores into polymer networks, which often involves detrimental effects on mechanical performance and also makes large-scale production difficult. Inspired by the heteroatom-rich microphase separation structures assisted by intensive hydrogen bonds in natural organisms, an ultra-robust fluorescent polyurethane elastomer is reported, which features a remarkable fracture strength of 87.2MPa with an elongation of 1797%, exceptional toughness of 678.4MJm-3 and intrinsic cyan fluorescence at 445nm. Moreover, the reversible fluorescence variation with temperature could in situ reveal the microphase separation of the elastomer in real time. By taking advantage of mechanical properties, intrinsic fluorescence and hydrogen bonds-promoted interfacial bonding ability, this fluorescent elastomer can be utilized as an auxetic skeleton for the elaboration of an integrated auxetic composite. Compared with the auxetic skeleton alone, the integrated composite shows an improved mechanical performance while maintaining auxetic deformation in a large strain below 185%, and its auxetic process can be visually detected under ultraviolet light by the fluorescence of the auxetic skeleton. The concept of introducing hydrogen-bonded heteroatom-rich microphase separation structures into polymer networks in this work provides a promising approach to developing fluorescent elastomers with exceptional mechanical properties.

Gelatin/heparin coated bio-inspired polyurethane composite fibers to construct small-caliber artificial blood vessel grafts

Long-term patency and ability for revascularization remain challenges for small-caliber blood vessel grafts to treat cardiovascular diseases clinically. Here, a gelatin/heparin coated bio-inspired polyurethane composite fibers-based artificial blood vessel with continuous release of NO and biopeptides to regulate vascular tissue repair and maintain long-term patency is fabricated. A biodegradable polyurethane elastomer that can catalyze S-nitrosothiols in the blood to release NO is synthesized (NPU). Then, the NPU core-shell structured nanofiber grafts with requisite mechanical properties and biopeptide release for inflammation manipulation are fabricated by electrospinning and lyophilization. Finally, the surface of tubular NPU nanofiber grafts is coated with heparin/gelatin and crosslinked with glutaraldehyde to obtain small-caliber artificial blood vessels (ABVs) with the ability of vascular revascularization. We demonstrate that artificial blood vessel grafts promote the growth of endothelial cells but inhibit the growth of smooth muscle cells by the continuous release of NO; vascular grafts can regulate inflammatory balance for vascular tissue remodel without excessive collagen deposition through the release of biological peptides. Vascular grafts prevent thrombus and vascular stenosis to obtain long-term patency. Hence, our work paves a new way to develop small-caliber artificial blood vessel grafts that can maintain long-term patency in vivo and remodel vascular tissue successfully.

Magnetic Reprogramming of Self‐Assembled Hard‐Magnetic Cilia

AbstractArtificial magnetic cilia are hair‐like structures that can respond to magnetic fields. Using hard magnetic materials in magnetic cilia makes possible programming and reprogramming of the magnetization state and corresponding actuation behaviors. Hard‐magnetic cilia are fabricated through self‐assembly by solvent casting of a slurry of NdFeB microparticles dispersed in a solution of a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer. These hard‐magnetic cilia are capable of attractive and repulsive responses to magnetic fields, determined by the remanent magnetization of the NdFeB microparticles. An array of cilia can be magnetically reprogrammed through immobilization in ice, applying a damped alternating magnetic field first to reduce the remanent magnetization, and then remagnetizing the cilia with a large field. This demagnetization process significantly improves the reprogrammability of the cilia array. Different responses to magnetic fields can be programmed, including spatially nonuniform behaviors. Reprogrammed hard‐magnetic cilia exhibit unique behaviors in rotating magnetic fields. After reprogramming the magnetization direction along the width of the cilia, rotation and torsion cause them to slowly coil and then quickly uncoil in a snapping behavior. Modeling the magnetic and elastic torques during actuation provides additional insights and aids the design of magnetic cilia actuators based on hard magnets.

Effects of soft chain materials on the tribological performances of thermosetting polyurethane under water-lubrication

Polyurethane elastomers are widely used as functional alternative materials in water-lubricated bearing materials. In this study, three kinds of polyurethane elastomers with different soft chains were prepared to investigate the influence of soft chain materials on their tribological properties. The test results show that the specimen with soft chain polyols as propylene glycol has the best wear resistance, and the friction coefficient is only 0.09 at 0.7 MPa. Due to the excellent buried property, the wear debris can be discharged in time, so the surface of the test specimen is relatively flat, which is conducive to the formation of lubricating water film. This study provides the experimental basis for polyurethane as an alternative material for water-lubricated bearings.

Benzoxazine/ thermoplastic polyurethane nanofibrous membranes with superior mechanical properties for efficient oil-water separation

The integration of membrane separation and electrospinning technologies has significantly advanced oil-water separation processes. However, enhancing the mechanical robustness, corrosion resistance, and durability of oil-water separation membranes remains a challenge. In this paper, we utilized the electrospinning technique to fabricate a micro-nanostructured nanofibrous (NFs) membrane by blending benzophenone monomer (BPAF-an) with thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU). By optimizing the solid content, the mass ratio of compounds to polymers, and the solvent composition in the spinning precursor solution, we determined the optimal electrospinning parameters for fabricating the TPU/BPAF-an NFs membrane. The incorporation of BPAF-an, known for its low surface energy, significantly enhanced the hydrophobicity of the nanofiber membrane. The TPU/BPAF-an NFs membrane demonstrated excellent mechanical properties, exhibiting a tensile strength of 7.38 MPa and an elongation at break of 292 %. The membrane had good hydrophobicity and its water contact Angle is up to 145.2°. It also displayed exceptional separation efficiency, exceeding 99 % for oil-in-water emulsions and various oil-water mixtures. Even in harsh environments such as strong acids, alkalis and salts, they have prominent hydrophobicity, lipophilicity and chemical stability. In addition, the membrane maintained a high flux rate of 1995.37 L m−2 h−1 and a separation efficiency of 96 % even after 100 cycles of oil-water separation. Consequently, the TPU/BPAF-an NFs membrane, with its superior mechanical properties and cycle stability, holds substantial promise for application in oil-water separation.

Giant nanomechanical energy storage capacity in twisted single-walled carbon nanotube ropes

A sustainable society requires high-energy storage devices characterized by lightness, compactness, a long life and superior safety, surpassing current battery and supercapacitor technologies. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), which typically exhibit great toughness, have emerged as promising candidates for innovative energy storage solutions. Here we produced SWCNT ropes wrapped in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers, and demonstrated experimentally that a twisted rope composed of these SWCNTs possesses the remarkable ability to reversibly store nanomechanical energy. Notably, the gravimetric energy density of these twisted ropes reaches up to 2.1 MJ kg−1, exceeding the energy storage capacity of mechanical steel springs by over four orders of magnitude and surpassing advanced lithium-ion batteries by a factor of three. In contrast to chemical and electrochemical energy carriers, the nanomechanical energy stored in a twisted SWCNT rope is safe even in hostile environments. This energy does not deplete over time and is accessible at temperatures ranging from −60 to +100 °C.

Core-sheath smart polymer fiber composites with high elasticity and thermal conductivity

Thermal conductive polymer fibers have broad development prospects because of its excellent thermal and mechanical properties. However, currently reported polymer fibers cannot simultaneously possess high thermal conductivity and high resilience, which greatly limits the application of thermal conductive polymer fibers. Therefore, preparing fibers with high thermal conductivity and high resilience is extremely challenging. The thermoplastic polyurethane/boron nitride liquid metal (TPU/BN-LMs) fiber with core sheath structure is prepared by coaxial wet spinning technology, the boron nitride (BN) doped in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU) as sheath and the liquid metal (LMs) as core. The maximum tensile strength of the fiber is 3.9 MPa, and the elongation can reach 400 %. After multiple cycles of stretching, it can return to its original state. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the fiber in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction are 10.0 W m−1 K−1 and 4.6 W m−1 K−1, respectively. This work solves the current problem of high thermal conductivity and high resilience of thermally conductive polymer fibers that are difficult to be compatible. And it provides a new research idea for the design and preparation of new high thermal conductivity and high resilience polymer fiber materials.

Advancing Surgical Arrhythmia Ablation: Novel Insights on 3D Printing Applications and Two Biocompatible Materials.

To date, studies assessing the safety profile of 3D printing materials for application in cardiac ablation are sparse. Our aim is to evaluate the safety and feasibility of two biocompatible 3D printing materials, investigating their potential use for intra-procedural guides to navigate surgical cardiac arrhythmia ablation. Herein, we 3D printed various prototypes in varying thicknesses (0.8 mm-3 mm) using a resin (MED625FLX) and a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU95A). Geometrical testing was performed to assess the material properties pre- and post-sterilization. Furthermore, we investigated the thermal propagation behavior beneath the 3D printing materials during cryo-energy and radiofrequency ablation using an in vitro wet-lab setup. Moreover, electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy were performed on biological tissue that had been exposed to the 3D printing materials to assess microparticle release. Post-sterilization assessments revealed that MED625FLX at thicknesses of 1 mm, 2.5 mm, and 3 mm, along with TPU95A at 1 mm and 2.5 mm, maintained geometrical integrity. Thermal analysis revealed that material type, energy source, and their factorial combination with distance from the energy source significantly influenced the temperatures beneath the 3D-printed material. Electron microscopy revealed traces of nitrogen and sulfur underneath the MED625FLX prints (1 mm, 2.5 mm) after cryo-ablation exposure. The other samples were uncontaminated. While Raman spectroscopy did not detect material release, further research is warranted to better understand these findings for application in clinical settings.

Experimental study and numerical model of a new passive adaptive isolation bearing

This study presents a novel assembled passive adaptive isolation bearing (PAIB) for structures against various seismic design levels, which offering variable stiffness functions change with the displacement, vertical stress and rate. The operational mechanism of the bearing is initially described, followed by experiments conducted on 6 specimens with NR (Natural rubber) drum dampers and 10 specimens with HDR (High damping rubber) drum dampers. The test results demonstrate a notable hardening segment in the horizontal shear force of HDR drum dampers compared to NR drum dampers when lateral displacement exceeds 200% total rubber thickness. Furthermore, the friction characteristics of sliding polyurethane elastomer bearing with different friction surfaces and the lateral mechanical properties of the whole device under different working conditions are examined. A numerical model, considering strong nonlinear reinforcement and frictional nonlinearity, is proposed based on the OpenSees platform, and its effectiveness is verified thorough experimental investigation. Additionally, parameter analyses are carried out to assess the contribution of each component of the new bearing to the lateral stiffness adaptive performance and the proportion of energy dissipation. The findings reveal that the hysteretic behavior of PAIB equipped with HDR drum dampers exhibits significant correlations between velocity, vertical pressure, and displacement. This highlights its excellent adaptability in both design and earthquake beyond the designed level, particularly when the frictional energy consumption remains relatively low.

Incomplete ionic interactions and hydrogen bonds constructing elastomers with water accelerated Self-Healing and self-healing strengthening capacities

Self-healing polymers with microphase separation structure typically require external stimuli to achieve self-healing, and their performance often degrades. To solve these issues, we introduce tertiary amine and carboxyl groups into polymer. The intermolecular ionic interactions and H-bonds contribute to the formation of microphase separation structures, endowing polyurethane elastomers (PU-n) outstanding mechanical properties with a maximum tensile strength and toughness of 20.61 MPa and 59.02 MJ/m3, respectively. The self-healing of the prepared PU-n can be achieved at room temperature and accelerated significantly by water because hard phases can be dissociated, resulting in enhanced molecular movement. After self-healing with water, the enhanced molecular movement and further ionization of ionic groups lead to stronger H-bonds and ionic interactions, promoting more distinct microphase separation. Thus, the mechanical strength is strengthened and the self-healing efficiency can reach 104.72 %. The enhanced molecular movement and strengthened intermolecular interactions when self-healing with water can also be verified through in-depth analysis of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the self-healing process. Furthermore, PU-n display remarkable shape memory and can be recycled through exposure to solvents and hot water. This study provides a novel and general method for preparing materials that can self-heal with water and self-strengthen after self-healing.

Mechanical Behaviors of Hybrid Composites with Orthogonal Spiral Wire Mesh and Polyurethane Elastomer

This work aims to significantly improve the mechanical properties of conventional rigid lattice structures under repeatable large deformations. A novel hybrid material is proposed based on the concept of interpenetrating composite materials. The material utilizes a woven TC4 orthogonal spiral wire mesh as the skeleton and PU elastomer (OSWM‐PU) as the matrix. The uniaxial tensile tests demonstrate that OSWM‐PU possesses the excellent load‐bearing capacity, allowing for large deformations (≥60%) while maintaining partial integrity even after matrix fracture. Optical measurements and simulation analysis reveal that Poisson's ratio can be adjusted within a certain range by manipulating the microscopic parameters (p, d) of the longitudinal helical filaments. Cyclic tensile experiments further demonstrate that OSWM‐PU exhibits exceptional energy absorption performance, multiple energy dissipation modes, and a more pronounced Mullins effect. The stress relaxation experiment reveals the significant influence of the volume fraction of the skeleton on long‐term loading conditions. The orthogonal spiral wire skeleton exhibits a superior hooking effect without dividing the matrix, enabling OSWM‐PU to possess enhanced collaborative deformation capability and inherent designability in the orthogonal direction. These characteristics make it highly promising for applications in various robot joints and as flexible aircraft skin, offering excellent prospects for utilization.

Tough rosin-based reversibly crosslinked elastomers with anticorrosion and adhesion properties

Conventional polymer materials cannot repair hidden cracks that appear during use by themselves, which affects service life and reliability. The reversibility of dynamic covalent bonds provides an effective approach for the sustainable development of materials. In this study, we introduced rosin, a renewable resource, and dimethylglyoxime with an oxime bond into polyurethane elastomers to prepare tough, self-healing rosin-based crosslinked elastomers. Benefiting from their high crosslinking density, the prepared elastomers exhibit excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength up to 13.6 ± 0.5 MPa and toughness up to 21.3 ± 0.6 MJ m–3) and solvent resistance. Based on the dynamic reversibility of oxime–carbamate bonds, the elastomers exhibit excellent self-healing properties (97.2 ± 1.1 % self-healing efficiency for 3 h at 80 °C). Furthermore, the elastomers exhibit good adhesion and corrosion resistance. Notably, the addition of rosin improves the elastomers' hydrophobicity and heat resistance in addition to their mechanical properties. These findings suggest that the prepared self-healing rosin-based elastomers have promising applications in self-healing anticorrosive coatings and adhesives.

Static and dynamic analysis of silicone/polyurethane embedded GFRP composite for magnetorheological elastomer

The current study focuses on the static and dynamic properties of GFRP composites embedded with a silicone(Si)/polyurethane(PU) blend used in automobile vibration dampening. Epoxy resin, glass fiber, and Si/PU blends of various compositions were used to create the hybrid composite specimens. For the present study, five different Si/PU blend compositions were considered to make five Si/PU embedded GFRP composite laminates were fabricated by hand layup method. The fabricated laminateswere cut to the standard sizes using water jet machining for mechanical and vibration testing. All tests were carried out in accordance with ASTM standards. Free Vibration test of five elastomeric composite specimens was carried out by impulse hammer method under fixed-free boundary condition. The current study found that the hybrid composite specimen with 0% Si and 100% PU elastomer has higher tensile strength, impact energy, and natural frequency than the other Si/PU blend elastomeric composite specimens.The better interfacial adhesion of PU rubber helps to transfer stress across interfaces more effectively and thereby enhancing the overall mechanical integrity of the composite laminate.

Comparative Study on Selected Insulating Materials for Industrial Piping.

This paper describes the results of an experimental assessment of the thermal conductivity of pipe insulation. The need for reducing energy loss in industrial piping systems makes the availability of relevant and reliable insulation materials of special importance. Several specimens of pipe laggings, made of different materials, including mineral wool, polyethylene foam (PEF), expanded polystyrene (EPS), flexible elastomeric foam (FEF) and polyurethane foam (PUR), were tested in accordance with the European standard ISO 8497. The thermal conductivity of the materials was measured for a wide range of temperatures. The results were compared with the values reported in the technical specifications as well as with the literature data. The assessment of measurement uncertainty was also described. The results showed that, in a few cases, thermal conductivity turned out to be greater than that declared by the manufacturer by as much as over 10%.

A novel noise-reducing and anti-corrosion polyurethane elastomer coating material modified by MXene / porous TiO2

The present study reports on a composite coating exhibiting noise reduction and anti-corrosion properties. We successfully synthesized a Ti3C2Tx@TiO2-PDA composite filler that involves growing porous TiO2 onto lamellar MXene (Ti3C2Tx) material and further coating both surfaces with a layer of polydopamine (PDA) material, providing the coating material with a micro-cavity structure to enhance its ability to dissipate acoustic energy and resist corrosion. And we incorporated it into the prepared disulfide bond-modified polyurethane coating matrix. Experimental tests and finite element analysis demonstrate that the coating can reduce environmental noise by approximately 33% while maintaining a maximum impedance modulus |Z| of 5.51 × 107 Ω·cm2 after immersion in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution for 25 days. The porous structure of the composite filler provides micro-cavities within the coating, while its lamellar structure acts as a physical barrier against corrosive media. Furthermore, introducing disulfide bonds enhances acoustic energy dissipation within the coating. Consequently, this coating exhibits exceptional corrosion resistance and noise reduction performance, presenting significant potential for applications in marine equipment's noise reduction and corrosion prevention.

A fluorine-based strong and healable elastomer with unprecedented puncture resistance for high performance flexible electronics

There is usually a trade-off between high mechanical strength and dynamic self-healing because the mechanisms of these properties are mutually exclusive. Herein, we design and fabricate a fluorinated phenolic polyurethane (FPPU) elastomer based on octafluoro-4,4′-biphenol to overcome this challenge. This fluorine-based motif not only tunes interchain interactions through π−π stacking between aromatic rings and free-volume among polymer chains but also improves the reversibility of phenol-carbamate bonds via electron-withdrawing effect of fluorine atoms. The developed FPPU elastomer shows the highest recorded puncture energy (648.0 mJ), high tensile strength (27.0 MPa), as well as excellent self-healing efficiency (92.3%), along with low surface energy (50.9 MJ m−2), notch-insensitivity, and reprocessability compared with non-fluorinated counterpart biphenolic polyurethane (BPPU) elastomer. Taking advantage of the above-mentioned merits of FPPU elastomer, we prepare an anti-fouling triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with a self-healable, and reprocessable elastic substrate. Benefiting from stronger electron affinity of fluorine atoms than hydrogen atoms, this electronic device exhibits ultrahigh peak open-circuit voltage of 302.3 V compared to the TENG fabricated from BPPU elastomer. Furthermore, a healable and stretchable conductive composite is prepared. This research provides a distinct and general pathway toward constructing high-performance elastomers and will enable a series of new applications.

Single-Step Synthesis and Characterization of Non-Linear Tough and Strong Segmented Polyurethane Elastomer Consisting of Very Short Hard and Soft Segments and Hierarchical Side-Reacted Networks and Single-Step Synthesis of Hierarchical Hyper-Branched Polyurethane.

Polyurethane elastomers are among the most versatile classes of industrial polymers-typically achieved through a two-step synthesis of segmented block copolymers, comprising very long and soft segments that provide elasticity and significantly long and hard segments that provide strength. The present research focused on the design of a single-step synthesis of a new segmented polyurethane consisting of very short soft and hard segments, crosslinked by preferentially side-reacted hierarchical tertiary oligo-uret network structures, thus exhibiting significant strength, elasticity, and toughness. Despite the theoretically linear structure, both FTIR and solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy analyses indicated the quasi-equal presence of urethane groups and tertiary oligo-uret structures in the resulting polymer, indicating a preferential consecutive side reaction mechanism. Thermal analysis indicated the significant crystallization of soft segments consisting of only four ethylene oxide units, which was, hereby, demonstrated to occur via an extended chain mechanism. Tensile mechanical properties included significant strength, elasticity, and toughness. Increasing the soft segment length led to a decreased tertiary oligo-uret secondary crosslinking efficacy. The preferential hierarchical side reaction mechanism was, hereby, further confirmed through the synthesis of a completely new type of hyper-branched polymer via diisocyanate and a mono-hydroxy-terminated reagent. The structure-property relations and reaction mechanisms demonstrated in the present research can facilitate the design of new polyurethanes of enhanced performance and processing efficacy for a variety of novel applications.