Crystallinity and Liquid Crystallinity of Polyurethanes: How Tailoring of Order Contributes to Customized Properties...

Studies on polyurethane (PU) materials offer advantageous properties utilized in various applications. The complex nature of the PUs structure and morphology gives them unique properties, but at the same time poses a considerable challenge for the characterization and design of structure-property relationships. Polyurethanes with tailored crystallinity can exhibit peculiar resistance to mechanical and chemical factors, allowing a widening range of application. Liquid crystalline polyurethanes have gained renewed interest thanks to the development of research methodologies and new possibilities for modifying diol and isocyanate monomers. The study shows that liquid crystal phenomena in polyurethanes can be effectively used for polymer compatibilization, in the fiber and nanofibers applications, as well as in 'smart' multi-stimuli materials.