USES OF ADDITIVES IN POLYURETHANES TO ENHANCE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY

Abstract

Because of the extraordinary qualities of polyurethanes (PU), they are adaptable polymers that are extensively employed in a variety of sectors. However, their utility in heat transfer intensive applications is limited due to their low thermal conductivity. Researchers have discovered a new way of adding chemicals called additives to polyurethane materials to increase their thermal conductivity to get around this restriction. The additives employed for this aim and their modes of action are thoroughly described in this review. The potential of a variety of additives, including graphene, carbon nanotubes, metal powders, boron and aluminum nitride, and nanostructured materials, to enhance the thermal characteristics of polyurethanes has been studied. These additives can be distributed throughout the polyurethane matrix to promote heat transmission since they have a high inherent thermal conductivity. To achieve consistent dispersion and optimal thermal performance, surface modifications and functionalization processes are utilized to improve the compatibility and interfacial adhesion between additives and the polymer matrix. To improve heat conductivity even more, synergistic effects between various compounds or between additives and the polyurethane matrix are being investigated. The influence of processing methods on the dispersion and orientation of additives within the polyurethane matrix is also covered, including melt compounding and solution mixing. To get the appropriate balance of thermal conductivity and other crucial characteristics in polyurethane materials, the review emphasizes the significance of appropriate formulation design and optimization. Improvements in processing methods and the synergistic effects of different additives have led to notable progress in raising polyurethanes' thermal conductivity and increasing their potential uses in heat transfer devices, insulation materials, and thermal management systems, etc. Overall, this review paper highlights interesting directions for further research in this area and offers insightful information in the field of additives for improving polyurethanes' thermal conductivity for its different applications.