Effects of the chain extenders on the properties of waterborne polyurethanes

Abstract This study investigated the effect of different chain extenders on the properties and degradability of waterborne polyurethanes (WPUs). Three types of waterborne polyurethanes were prepared by polyethylene glycol (PEG) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) with the addition of isosorbide (IS), 1,4-butanediol (BDO), and imidazolidinyl urea (IU) as chain extender, respectively. The experimental results showed that the waterborne polyurethanes with imidazolidinylurea (IU) as the chain extender performed better in terms of mechanical properties and degradability, and displayed good hydrophilicity and solubility. These findings are of great significance for the design and application of polyurethane materials with environmental friendliness.