Timeline of Polyurethane Applications
Timeline of Polyurethane Applications
1937
Dr. Otto Bayer discovers the basic polyurethane chemistry. I.G. Farben (Bayer) patents the process
1940
Rigid foam first introduced for aircraft
1941
Adhesive between rubber, metal and glass
1948
First insulation application – a beer barrel
1949
Vulcanized rollable polyurethane rubber
1953
Shoe soles – Synthetic leather
1954
Foam cushions
1958
Introduction of Spandex fiber
1960
Steel sandwich building panels
1966
Integral skin for armrests and shoe soles
1969
Automobile bumpers
1970
Imitation wood
Orthopedics and medical applications
1979
Spray building insulation
1981
Surfboards
1985
Energy absorbing foams for passenger safety
1993
Thin wall medical hoses i.e. catheters
1995
Bicycle tires
2001
Automobile tires