When choosing materials for industrial applications, chemical resistance is a key performance factor—especially in environments exposed to oils, solvents, fuels, acids, or water. Polyurethane rubber stands out as a versatile and durable material that offers excellent resistance to many chemicals, making it ideal for harsh working conditions.
At PENGDE NEW MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality polyurethane rubber sheets designed to meet demanding industrial requirements. This guide will help you understand how polyurethane performs against various chemical agents, and how to choose the right formulation for your needs.
What Is Chemical Resistance in Polyurethane Rubber?
Chemical resistance refers to the ability of a material to maintain its mechanical properties and structural integrity when exposed to specific chemical environments. Polyurethane rubber is known for its unique molecular structure, which offers a high degree of resistance to many aggressive substances.
However, chemical compatibility can vary depending on the polyurethane formulation, temperature, exposure time, and concentration of the chemicals.
Polyurethane’s General Chemical Resistance Profile
| Chemical Category | Resistance Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oils & Greases | Excellent | Especially mineral oils and petroleum-based |
| Solvents (e.g., alcohols) | Good to Moderate | Short-term exposure is usually acceptable |
| Acids (diluted) | Moderate | Better resistance to weak organic acids |
| Alkalis (mild) | Good | Depends on concentration |
| Water & Humidity | Excellent | Non-porous, does not swell or degrade easily |
| Hydrocarbons | Very Good | Resistant to aliphatic hydrocarbons |
| Strong Acids & Bases | Limited | Avoid prolonged contact with strong chemicals |
| Ozone/UV Exposure | Good | Can be improved with stabilizers |
Applications Requiring Chemical Resistance
Polyurethane rubber is widely used in industries where exposure to aggressive chemicals is unavoidable. Common applications include:
- Seals and gaskets in chemical plants
- Protective linings for tanks and pipes
- Oil-resistant rollers and bushings in manufacturing
- Abrasion-resistant sheets for mining and automotive industries
- Hydraulic seals exposed to oil and fluid mixtures
Why Choose Polyurethane Over Other Materials?
Compared to traditional rubber materials (like natural rubber or nitrile rubber), polyurethane offers:
- Better abrasion and wear resistance
- Higher load-bearing capacity
- Longer lifespan in oily or fuel-rich environments
- Greater resistance to hydrolysis and moisture degradation
This makes polyurethane rubber a cost-effective and high-performance alternative in chemically demanding applications.
Custom Formulations from PENGDE NEW MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
At PENGDE NEW MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD, we offer custom polyurethane rubber solutions engineered for specific environments. Our polyurethane sheets can be formulated for:
- Enhanced oil and solvent resistance
- Increased thermal and hydrolytic stability
- Anti-static or flame-retardant requirements
- Shore hardness customization (Shore A or D)
We serve a global industrial customer base and provide OEM/ODM support for custom polyurethane sheet products.
Need Technical Support?
If you’re unsure which formulation suits your operating environment, we’re here to help. Our technical team will assess your working conditions and recommend the right polyurethane rubber sheet for optimal performance.
Contact us today for professional guidance and a free quote.
Email: pengde2@pengde-pu.com
Company: PENGDE NEW MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
