Polyurethane-102 is an inorganic chemical compound, an urethane and Dimethicone by-product.
Description of raw materials used in production and their functions.
- Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate. An ester used as a flexibility component in polyurethane, providing elasticity and softness to the polymer.
- Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone. A modified form of silicone with hydroxy functional groups. Can act as a shaping component, providing a smooth surface to the polymer.
- Isophorone Diisocyanate. One of the main isocyanates used in polyurethane production. Reacts with polyols to form the polymer.
- 1,6-Hexamethylene Diisocyanate. Another crucial isocyanate in polyurethane formation. Provides toughness and resilience to the polymer.
- Alcohol. Can act as a solvent or reactant in polyurethane formation, aiding in mixing and chemical reaction.
Form: Elastic solid.
Color: Can vary depending on added ingredients, but typically clear or white.
Step-by-step summary of industrial chemical synthesis process.
- Raw material preparation. All the raw materials are prepared and purified.
- Mixing. The components, including isocyanates and Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate, are mixed together in specific ratios.
- Catalysis. Catalysts or other additives might be added to accelerate or modulate the reaction.
- Polymer formation. The reaction between isocyanates and other components takes place, forming the polyurethane.
- Cooling and solidification. The polyurethane is cooled and solidified.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics
Film-forming agent. It produces a continuous ultra-thin film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on the skin or hair to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.
Safety
Dimethicone ((polydimethylsiloxane) is a chemical compound, a high molecular weight polymer derived from silicone, a chemically inert mixture of linear methylated siloxane polymers. The term 'dimeth' denotes two methyl groups bonded to the silicone molecule that provide the formation of dimethicone. It possesses a pronounced viscoelasticity characteristic and is hydrophobic, thus adding shine and slipperiness when applied to hair or skin. It forms a kind of barrier that prevents exogenous substances from entering the stratum corneum and at the same time prevents water loss. It is also UV-resistant, non-greasy and cost-effective. At low concentrations it is considered by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to be a skin protector with a good degree of safety.
It is therefore considered safe when formulated to be non-irritating in cosmetic products as, given its high molecular weight, it is poorly absorbed by the skin or scalp.
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.
Urethane (also called ethyl carbamate) is a fermentation by-product and is considered a genotoxic agent.
