Polyurethane-57 is an inorganic chemical compound, a segmented block copolymer derived from urethane and synthesised from isocyanates.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• "Polyurethane" is a term that describes a class of polymers widely used in various applications due to their versatility and desirable properties such as durability, flexibility and abrasion resistance and temperature variations.
• "-57" is a reference to the specific type or grade of polyurethane, which can be characterized by such factors as the types of isocyanates and polyols used, their relative amounts, and the presence of any additives. . This is a designation used to differentiate different molecular structures or variants of the polymer. In cosmetic chemistry, these numbers can help formulators identify specific characteristics or behaviors of a given ingredient, particularly when a chemical family has multiple derivatives or forms.

Significant substances used in the production method:

Ethylene Carbonate, Hexanediol, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 1,5-pentanediol, hydroxyethyl acrylate.

Description of the raw materials used in production and their functions:

• Ethylene Carbonate. A cyclic carbonate often used as a reactant in the synthesis of polyols and as a chain extender in polyurethane formulations.
• Hexanediol. A polyol that provides flexible segments to the polyurethane, enhancing its toughness and flexibility.
• Isophorone Diisocyanate (IPDI). Diisocyanate used to react with polyols to form polyurethane. It imparts strength and stability to the polymer.
• 1,5-Pentanediol. Another polyol, typically used in conjunction with other polyols to adjust the properties of the final polyurethane product.
• Hydroxyethyl Acrylate. A monomer that provides the capability for UV-curing of the polyurethane and improves the adhesive and coating properties of the polymer.

Step-by-step industrial synthesis:

Hexanediol, Ethylene Carbonate, and 1,5-Pentanediol are mixed to prepare a reaction mixture containing polyols.

• Isophorone Diisocyanate (IPDI) is added to the reaction mixture, initiating the formation of the polyurethane by reacting with the polyols.
• Hydroxyethyl Acrylate is introduced into the mix, promoting UV-curing capability and further modifying the polymer's properties.
• The mixture is allowed to react until the desired molecular weight and consistency of the polyurethane is achieved.
• The resulting polyurethane is then cured, either using UV light (due to the presence of hydroxyethyl acrylate) or through a thermal process, solidifying its structure and finalizing its properties.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Binder agent. Ingredient that is used in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products as an anti-caking agent with the function of making the product in which it is incorporated silky, compact and homogenous. The binder, either natural such as mucilage, gums and starches or chemical, may be in the form of a powder or liquid.

CAS: 930592-39-5

It appears as a white powder or colorless liquid.

Safety

Urethane (also called ethyl carbamate) is a by-product of fermentation and is considered a genotoxic agent.

Polyurethanes are rather complex, inert and biostable materials that are also used in biomedical applications. They are typically synthesised by the reaction of a glycol or polyol with polyisocyanate or diisocyanate. It is known that exposure to isocyanates can cause asthma, contact allergies, conjunctival and skin irritation. However, a study by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel in 2017 found that the rates of harmful residues are not significant for human health.