Polyurethanes based on aliphatic polyester polyols exhibit high cohesive strength and adhesion-as well as superior mechanical strength and abrasion resistance-due to the presence of numerous polar groups (such as ester and amino groups) within their molecular structure. Aliphatic polyester diols (typically derived from adipic acid) are widely used in the production of cast polyurethane elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomers, microporous polyurethane shoe soles, PU leather resins, polyurethane adhesives, polyurethane inks and color pastes, and fabric coatings.
Polyester diols synthesized from adipic acid and 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, or ethylene glycol are waxy solids; the resulting polyurethane elastomers feature high crystallinity and strong initial tack, yielding products with high mechanical strength. In contrast, polyesters derived from diols with side groups-such as PMA and PPA-are liquid at room temperature and flexible, making them suitable for applications like inks and soft leather; notably, PMA offers superior hydrolysis resistance.
