look what we did!Innovations From Polyurethane Manufacturers

New Polyurethane Material Revolutionizes 3D Printing

During the past decade, 3D printing has evolved from a novelty to an integral part of many manufacturing processes. Now, a German company has developed a revolutionary polyurethane-based material that can be used in its Liquid Additive Manufacturing (LAM) process to print complex parts.

The material can be processed in its liquid state, which eliminates the need for melting and helps speed production times. Processing at room temperature also helps to avoid shrinkage, warping and detachment from the print bed. The end result can also be calibrated to a range of hardness, broadening the scope of use for the innovative...

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A Veterans Day Salute to Polyurethane

On Veterans Day, as we thank our members of the military for their service, we take a look at the role polyurethanes have played in military ventures past and present.

Polyurethanes were invented in the 1930s but became broadly used during World War II. At the time, rubber was a challenge to produce and scarce. Polyurethane offered a more available and versatile alternative. New applications were quickly developed, including clothing; protective finishes for airplanes; and coatings to protect metal, wood, and masonry from chemicals and corrosion.

Today, polyurethane continues to play a role in supporting our military – from boots...

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Polyurethane Shines During National Piano Month

It’s National Piano Month, and polyurethane has an important part to play in making today’s pianos both tough and beautiful. The mirror-like finish on modern pianos is so sought after in furniture design it’s actually called “piano black,” and achieving it is quite a process.

First, the wood and fiberboard the piano is made of ARE planed and sanded as smooth as possible. Then, sprayed layers of primer and polyurethane coating are applied. Multiple layers are sprayed to build up a thick coat. While the surface may look shiny, it’s far from finished. The coating must be sanded and smoothed...

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Polyurethane Cuts Statue Manufacturing Time in Half

An art studio that designs and manufactures statues worldwide has recently been making use polyurethane products. Its typical manufacturing process takes 6 to 8 weeks; however, since the integration of Alchemie’s PU 3676, statues are being completed in as little as 2 to 3 weeks.

PU 3676 is a low viscosity, two-component polyurethane system that can be used to produce patterns, molds, models and prototypes with excellent fine-detail replication. PU 3676 can be filled with mineral or metallic fillers for reduced shrinkage and has rapid demold times even when cast in thin sections. That’s truly incredible!

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DOW Chemical Helps Keep the “Cold Chain” Cold

Dow Chemical Co. introduced a new adhesive material called Monstergrip.  It can bond fiberglass panels to prepared spray foam insulation inside refrigerated trucks and trailers. Refrigerated trucks transport fresh and frozen food safely and efficiently as a key part of the “cold chain.”

Polyurethane keeps the cold in the cold food!

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Prepare for this Year’s Memorial Day with Polyurethane

Summer is just around the corner! From helping your home stay nice and cool, to outdoor gear and fun in the sun, polyurethane is here to make your summer even more incredible.

The rigid polyurethane panels used for insulation in your home help to keep you nice and comfortable. And these polyurethane panels can drastically reduce energy usage and conserve natural resources.

Don’t forget about the summer block parties! Polyurethane is used in the coolers we use to keep our drinks and food cold while we’re out on the go in the summer months.

So whether you’re keeping...

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Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Happy Cinco De Mayo, everyone! Today, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. A great way to celebrate the rich Mexican culture with friends and family is by hosting a party and taking advantage of polyurethane to make your celebrations even more festive.

Polyurethane can be found in a lot of party decorations since it is an incredibly durable and versatile material. Your guests will be able to enjoy all those colorful maracas and sombreros throughout the evening. Plus, durable protective coatings mean you can use the same decorations for future parties. 

Polyurethane...

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Fun Facts About Polyurethane

Happy Friday, everyone! Here are five fun facts about polyurethane.

Polyurethane Goes Gardening!

Break out your gloves for National Gardening Month!

Of all the tools you need for gardening, your gloves have to be one of the most important. Apart from keeping your hands clean, gardening gloves also help keep your hands dry and better protected from harsh and scratchy substances. Polyurethane gloves are also durable enough to help you pull out those stubborn weeds for many seasons!

Polyurethane garden hoses are another essential gardening tool due to their flexible material. After being stretched to capacity, polyurethane hoses typically spring back into shape. How great is that?  Polyurethane helps reduce hoses’ weight, taking away a...

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