Stabilization methods polymeric elastomers

Special methods are necessary for the production of polyurethane dispersions because of the thermodynamically unstable nature of these two-phase systems. A simple application of the emulsion polymerization techniques for isocyanate polyaddition reactions is not possible, due to the reactivity of the NCO group with water. The extreme water sensitivity of all polyurethane preparation procedures which calls for the complete absence of water is obviously a major problem to be overcome in their preparation. It is surprising, given the basic hydrolytic degradability of polyurethane elastomers, to find that polyurethane latex has good long-term stability when it is a two-phase system. This is in contrast to the situation that applies when it is present in a one-phase system. 

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