Effect of different isocyanates on the properties of soy-based polyurethanes

New types of polyurethanes were prepared by reacting soybean oil-based polyol and different isocyanates. The polyurethanes can be used as foams, elastomers, coatings, adhesives, etc. Their properties strongly depend on crosslinking density and the structure of isocyanates. Aromatic triisocyanates impart the highest density, glass transition, modulus, and tensile strength, but have the lowest elongation at break, swelling in toluene, and impact resistance. Aliphatic triisocyanates and diisocyanates give rubbery materials with the highest elongation at break, highest swelling, and the lowest tensile strength. Polyurethanes with aromatic and cycloaliphatic diisocyanates were similar in properties, with values between those of the two groups. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.