Glossary of terms used in the polyurethanes business

Courtesy of Smithers-Rapra & Cromar Solutions Ltd, UK

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Block copolymer A polymer that contains linear polymer sequences of two or more different polymer molecules in one polymer chain. The polymer blocks are sometimes called segments, particularly when they are small in size (cf graft copolymer).
Blowing agent A substance incorporated in a mixture for the purpose of producing a foam. For polyurethanes, this is usually either carbon dioxide generated from the isocyanate / water reaction, or is a low boiling organic liquid volatilised by the heat of the polyurethane-forming reactions.
Branching Lateral extension points in a polymer chain usually available for crosslinking.