What is polyether polyol?
Polyether polyols (referred to as polyether) are produced through a polycondensation reaction of a starter (a compound containing active hydrogen groups) with epoxides such as ethylene oxide (EO), propylene oxide (PO), and butylene oxide (BO) in the presence of a catalyst. Polyether polyols widely used in the production of various types of polyurethane elastomers, coatings, adhesives, sealants, water-based polyurethanes, and more. They can partially replace tetrahydrofuran polyether and polyester polyols, reducing production costs and improving product quality in the industry.
Polyether polyols are major raw materials for polyurethane foam . Polyether polyols derived from polyesters are also used in the production of polyisocyanurate foams.
Polyether polyols have abundant raw material sources. Conventional rigid foam polyether polyols are cost-effective, and polyether-based polyurethanes demonstrate good resistance to hydrolysis.
What's the advantages of polyester polyols?
It has high foam strength, good adhesion, high elongation, and excellent oil resistance. However, they have a lower resistance to hydrolysis compared to polyether foams. Polyether polyols are primarily used in the preparation of rigid polyurethane foam plastics, widely applied in refrigerators, freezers, refrigerated trucks, insulation boards, pipe insulation, and more. The resulting products have low thermal conductivity and excellent dimensional stability, making polyether polyols essential raw materials for composite polyether formulations. Polyether polyol production in the polyurethane industry is mainly used in the production of polyurethane foam plastics, with major varieties including polyoxypropylene polyols and polytetrahydrofuran polyols.
How to store the polyether polyol?
Containers for storing polyether polyols can be made of steel, aluminum, polyethylene, or polypropylene. The storage temperature should not exceed 70°C, and to prevent moisture absorption and oxidation, it is recommended to fill the containers with nitrogen gas. Polyether polyol products are typically packaged in clean, dry, sealed, and leak-proof galvanized iron drums. During storage, precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to sunlight and rain and keep away from open flames.
Generally, the toxicity of neutral polyether polyols when ingested orally or in contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes is negligible, and therefore, no personal protective measures are required during use. However, amine-based polyether polyols can irritate the skin and eyes due to their alkalinity, so safety glasses and gloves should be worn during handling. If polyether polyols adhere to the skin, wash with plenty of water; if they come into contact with the eyes, rinse the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. In case of spills, absorbent materials such as sawdust, sand, or fabric should be used to remove the polyether polyols, followed by rinsing with plenty of water.