Super stretchable chromatic polyurethane driven by anthraquinone chromogen as a chain extender.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Polyurethane elastomers (PUEs) are versatile materials, but enhancing their mechanical properties alongside color performance remains a challenge.
• Developing PUEs with superior tensile strength, elongation, color strength, and fastness is crucial for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel polyurethane elastomer (PUE) incorporating an anthraquinone chromogen.
• To investigate the impact of chromogen content on the mechanical properties and color performance of the synthesized PUEs.
• To evaluate the potential of these PUEs for textile applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of PUEs using isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), polycarbonate diol (PCDL)/polytetrahydrofuran glycol (PTHF) soft segments, and anthraquinone chromogen.
• Mechanical testing (tensile strength, elongation at break) and color fastness tests (rubbing, washing).
• Microstructural analysis using UV-Vis, XRD, and SEM to understand structure-property relationships.

Main Results:

• The synthesized PUEs exhibited high tensile strength and elongation at break, with optimal values achieved at specific chromogen concentrations.
• SEM and XRD analysis confirmed improved phase separation induced by the anthraquinone chromogen, correlating with enhanced mechanical properties.
• The PUE films demonstrated excellent color strength and superior rubbing and washing fastness (grade 5).

Conclusions:

• The novel PUEs with integrated anthraquinone chromogen show a significant enhancement in both mechanical properties and color characteristics.
• The improved phase separation is key to the superior performance of these PUEs.
• These PUEs possess high potential for direct application in the textile industry due to their excellent durability and color retention.