Polyurethanes are prone to degradation during processing and end-use, as a result of the combined effects of mechanical shear, thermal-oxidation and UV light exposure. In addition, when producing flexible slabstock foams, the exotherm from the polyol / isocyanate reaction can cause scorch in the center of the foam. Polyurethane is a good insulator, and the interior of the foam stays hot for many hours increasing the risk of scorching. In order to alleviate these issues, raw materials such as polyols and isocyanates contain stabilizer packages.

Property Modification  

For many applications such as sponges, dishcloths, shoe insoles or mattresses where hygiene and odor are important concerns, utilization of Ciba® IRGAGUARD® antimicrobials products may be of particular value.  

Coloration of polyurethane foams

Polyurethane foams are colored almost exclusively by dispersed pigment pastes. These are based on polyols or compatible plasticizers and are either stirred into the polyol component prior to mixing or metered directly into the reaction components at the mixing head of the foaming/dispensing machine. For coloration, preference is given to organic pigments because of their high color strength and non-abrasive nature, which prevents excessive wear in the mixing heads. With flexible slapstock foams, heat stability of the colorant should also be considered due to the heat generated over a long period of time, causing degradation of the colorant.  

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