Home :: What is polyurethane?
What is polyurethane?
Polyurethane (PU) is a versatile petroleum-derived polymer that may be made in liquid, foam or solid form, each with its own properties (for example, it might be hard, squishy, protective, bouncy or sticky).
Where is it found?
The presence of polyurethane is nearly as ubiquitous as PVC, as it is used in such a wide variety of products. Polyurethane is commonly found in liquid form in paints and varnishes used to protect or seal wood and in adhesives like woodworking glue, in solid form in skateboard and inline skate wheels and in flooring, and in foam form in upholstery foam, mattresses and automobile parts. Polyurethane is also used in many construction materials, tennis rackets, and electronics.
Why should I be concerned?
Polyurethane contains toluene di-isocyanate (TDI), which is toxic and known to cause cancer in humans. TDI is also an eye, respiratory and skin irritant. Additionally, polyurethane is highly flammable so it is frequently heavily treated with flame retardant chemicals when used as foam in mattresses. Polyurethane foam also breaks down over time into small particles that easily become airborne while releasing substantial VOC's over its life cycle.
Where can I learn more?
For more information, see the Wikipedia entry for polyurethane, the CHEC Article "Paints and Finishes", the CDC Report "Community Exposure to Toluene Diisocyanate from a Polyurethane Foam Manufacturing Plant--North Carolina, 1997", and the Green Guide Article "What is Polyurethane?".
