Synthesis, Physicochemical Characterization, and Applications of Polyurethane Ionomers: A Review

1. INTRODUCTION

In the increasingly changing scenario in which yesterday's luxuries have become today's necessities, polymers have played a very crucial role. From ships to aircraft, polymeric materials have found tremendous applications, often having many desirable properties compared to many conventional materials. Polyurethanes (PUs) belong to one such class of materials used for all-around applications. Polyurethanes are an important class of block copolymers for which the properties of the end product can be designed according to user needs. Due to the potential large volume of applications and the high versatility of properties, these materials require a thorough understanding of synthesis and properties, as well as updating of knowledge. The manufacture of polyurethanes involves a greater degree of control over chemical reactions than most other polymers do. Their properties range from liquid, soft, and rubbery solids to rigid thermoplastic and thermoset materials [1–8].