Polyurethane vs. Plastic: A Technical Comparison
The plastics family generally includes materials with a wide range of chemical compositions, including variations of carbon and hydrogen molecules. Examples of plastics consist of polyethylene, PVC, nylon, and ABS. Strictly speaking, thermoset polyurethanes are NOT considered "plastic". Instead, the long flexible polymer molecules that comprise thermoset polyurethanes make this material a true elastomer. Typically, thermoset polyurethanes are either cast molded or Reaction Injection Molded (RIM), while plastics are often injection molded. Unlike thermoset polyurethane, plastics will tend to remain permanently deformed or even break when stretching, abrasion, or impact forces are applied.
Thermoset Polyurethanes Benefits
Thermoset polyurethanes have many advantages over plastics for a variety of applications, including:
- Elastomeric memory allows polyurethane to return to its original shape when stretched, bent, or deformed
- Superior durability and resiliency at harder durometers
- Outstanding impact and abrasion resistance
- Physical properties can be engineered to meet demanding specifications
If you are seeking material assistance for your product design, complete our design tool, here, or download our material data sheets below to explore the superior properties our technologies can offer:
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- Polyurethane vs. Rubber: Choosing the Best Material for Performance
- Polyurethane vs Polyethylene: Choosing the Right Plastic for Your Design
- Thermoset vs Thermoplastic: Key Definitions & Core Differences
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- The Ultimate Guide to CNC Plastic Machining
- 5 FDA‑Approved Food‑Grade Plastics Every Supplier Should Know