Polyurethane (PU for short) is a material that can be found everywhere in our lives, such as sofa cushions, the bottoms of shoes, insulation on walls, and even in car parts.
Because polyurethane has so many uses, many people are beginning to wonder whether it is safe.
In this brief introduction, we will talk about what polyurethane is, its possible health risks, its impact on the environment, and how to use it safely at home.
What is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane (PU) is a polymer material that is very durable, flexible, and versatile.
It is made of organic materials that combine through chemical reactions to form a very strong structure, which gives it unique physical properties.
Polyurethane is very wear-resistant, elastic, and waterproof, so it often replaces traditional materials such as rubber, metal, and wood.
Properties of Polyurethane (PU)
Here is a table showing specific values for the properties of polyurethane (PU) materials:
| Property | Value Range | Unit |
| Density | 1.0 – 1.25 | g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 10 – 60 | MPa |
| Elongation | 200 – 800 | % |
| Hardness | 20 – 95 | Shore A or Shore D |
| Tear Strength | 25 – 75 | kN/m |
| Abrasion Resistance | 0.05 – 0.2 | g/1000 cycles |
| Temperature Range | -40 to 80 | °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.02 – 0.04 | W/(m·K) |
| Water Absorption | 0.2 – 0.8 | % |
| Compression Set | 5 – 10 | % |
| Impact Strength | 0.5 – 1.5 | kJ/m² |
Common Uses of Polyurethane
In fact, polyurethane is in many places in our lives, such as:
- Furniture: polyurethane is found in memory foam mattresses and sofa cushions, making them more comfortable and supportive.
- Shoes: The soles of many sports shoes are also made of polyurethane, which can reduce shock when walking and prevent feet from getting tired.
- House insulation: rigid polyurethane foam is often used for house insulation, which can help maintain indoor temperature and save electricity.
- Automotive interior: polyurethane is used in car seats and dashboards. It is durable, soft, and not easy to deform.
- Electronic products: it can also be made into a protective layer to protect electronic equipment from moisture and damage.
Is Polyurethane Safe for Human Health?
Polyurethane has some potential health effects, especially during production, processing, or aging.
Impacts During Production and Processing:
Some chemicals are used in the manufacture of polyurethane.
If these chemicals are inhaled, they may irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs and may be bad for breathing over time.
Therefore, people in factories generally wear protective tools to avoid these injuries.
Impacts of Long-Term Use:
Polyurethane may release some gases after long-term use, especially when placed in a high-temperature environment, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
If these gases accumulate in a confined space, sometimes people will feel dizzy or uncomfortable breathing.
Therefore, polyurethane products such as mattresses and sofas at home should be ventilated more after long-term use to reduce the accumulation of these gases.
Impacts of Skin Contact:
In most cases, polyurethane is safe for the skin, but some people have sensitive skin and may become red or itchy after contact.
If there are children or people with sensitive skin at home, you can read the product description before buying polyurethane products.
In general, polyurethane products in life generally do not cause too many health problems, but if they are used for a long time, it is better to keep the room ventilated, which is more secure for health.
Environmental Impact: Is Polyurethane Safe?
Polyurethane (PU) is relatively safe in terms of the environment. Its durability makes the product less prone to damage, reduces the frequency of replacement, and thus reduces resource waste.
Currently, many polyurethane products have low harmful gas emissions. Although recycling is more complicated, many companies are working hard to develop more effective recycling methods. For example, a new material called bio-based polyurethane is gradually being used. It is made from renewable resources such as plants and reduces dependence on oil. In addition, many polyurethane products have passed environmental certification and meet environmental standards.
In general, polyurethane is safe for the environment as long as it is used reasonably and handled properly. Choosing low-emission, environmentally certified polyurethane products can help us better protect the environment.
Safety Regulations for Polyurethane
Some safety standards and regulations have been put in place to provide for the protection of the environment, whereupon the production and use of polyurethane are based.
In Europe, for example, how chemicals are used is regulated by the REACH, and this process is meant to ascertain that substances like polyurethane will cause no harm to people when appropriately used.
Some safety rules that should be followed in the factory include circulation of air and wearing gloves and masks so that no contact is made between harmful chemicals and the workers. Similarly, the manufacturers should ensure that their products are safe.
Use polyurethane products (furniture, mattresses, etc.) according to the guidelines for the product and ensure that the room is ventilated to minimize the release of harmful gases.
Polyurethane that has not been used should be stored properly and kept away from hot areas or heat from direct sunlight.
How to Use Polyurethane Safely in Your Home?
For most people, polyurethane can be safely used in everyday objects if used correctly.
Maintain the ventilation
If you have purchased a new polyurethane product, such as a mattress, back cushion or rug, be sure to place it in a well-ventilated area. This will reduce your exposure to harmful gases, especially in the first days after purchase.
Wear protective equipment
If you are using raw polyurethane in your diy project (such as aerosol foam insulation), be sure to wear protective equipment. This will protect your skin and breathing from harmful chemicals.
Choose products with low voc content
Many manufacturers now offer polyurethane products with a low voc content that release fewer harmful substances. It is important to choose these products, especially if you use them indoors, as they improve air quality and are better for your health.
Debunking Common Myths About Polyurethane
Myth 1: Polyurethane is toxic and should not be used in the home
In fact, many polyurethane products, such as sofa cushions, mattresses and shoe soles, are safe. As long as they are used according to the instructions and under normal conditions, polyurethane will not release harmful substances.
Myth 2: Polyurethane products are easy to cause allergies
Although a few people may be allergic to certain polyurethane materials, most polyurethane products are safe for the skin. If you have a history of allergies, it is best to test the new product before using it to make sure there is no reaction.
Myth 3: Polyurethane is not breathable and can easily cause moisture
This idea is not entirely true. Although polyurethane foam may have low breathability, many polyurethane products are treated to allow air to circulate, helping to regulate indoor humidity and temperature and making people more comfortable.
Myth 4: All polyurethanes are the same
In fact, polyurethanes come in many different types and formulations, which can be adjusted according to needs. Some polyurethanes are suitable for soft mattresses, while others are suitable for hard insulation materials. This diversity allows polyurethane to adapt to different uses.
What Materials Can Replace Polyurethane?
If you want to find a material that is more environmentally friendly than polyurethane, there are actually several good options, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages:
- Polylactic acid (PLA): plant-based, environmentally friendly, and degradable; suitable for disposable items but not durable enough.
- Thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE): recyclable and durable, suitable for multiple uses, but the price is higher.
- Natural latex: environmentally friendly and comfortable, used in mattresses, etc., but the lifespan is slightly shorter and some people are allergic.
- Silicone: high temperature resistant and strong, suitable for kitchen supplies, but slow to degrade and has a greater impact on the environment.
In general, various alternatives have their own advantages and disadvantages, and you can consider them according to your needs and budget when choosing.
Conclusion: Is Polyurethane Safe?
In conclusion, is polyurethane safe? In most cases, it is a fairly safe chemical, especially after curing.
For everyday uses, such as furniture, mattresses, and insulation, it can generally be considered safe.
Of course, if you choose products with lower VOC emissions, you may be able to further reduce negative health effects.
When buying or using polyurethane products, verifying the product’s environmental certification and ingredient information is always the best way to ensure that you are choosing a safer product.