Polyurethane GEL Q&A







Welcome to Northstar Polymers' comprehensive guide on polyurethane gel elastomers. Below, we answer frequently asked questions about polyurethane gels, covering their properties, applications, and manufacturing processes.


(Note: This guide does not pertain to "Gel Coat," a thickened one-part coating compound.)






What Is Polyurethane Gel?


Polyurethane gel is a unique type of ultra-soft material made from

polyurethane polymers. Its softness and flexibility are measured on the OO or OOO Durometer scales, distinguishing it from standard polyurethane elastomers.


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What Are the Applications of Polyurethane Gel?


Polyurethane gel elastomers are used in various products, including:


• Wrist Rests: Ergonomic support for keyboards and mouse pads.

• Bicycle Saddles: Comfortable saddle covers.

• Motorcycle Seats: Enhanced touring comfort.

• Seating Pads: Cushions for chairs, automotive, and tractor seats.

• Medical Applications: Surgery bed liners and training devices.

• Foot Care Products: Shoe insoles and other supports.

• Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs): Sticky-surface gel materials for reusable adhesives.


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How Are Polyurethane Gel Products Made?


Polyurethane gel elastomers are typically created using two-component casting resin systems. The process includes:


1. Mixing: Combine part-A and part-B liquid components.

2. Chemical Reaction: The mixture reacts to form a solid elastomer.

3. Shaping: Pour the resin into molds for desired shapes.

4. Curing: Allow the material to cure, either at room temperature or under heat. Visit our Polyurethane Q&A page for additional details.

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How Are Gel Cushioning Pads Made?


The production of gel cushioning pads involves:


• Outer Casing: Pre-forming a flexible polymer film casing (e.g., TPU film) via thermal forming methods such as vacuum forming.


• Casting: Pouring liquid polyurethane resin into the casing.


• Sealing: Heat-sealing the casing after curing to enclose the gel.


Explore formulations for cushioning pads: MPC-W44B, MPP-V37A


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Can I Make Polyurethane Gel Products Without Film Casings?


Yes, Northstar Polymers offers formulations with reduced surface stickiness, enabling production without flexible film casings. These products often contain plasticizers that may affect their application suitability.


Our low-tack formulations: • MCP-V40A • NTG-9 • SAI-1


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How Do I Create Sticky Pads with Polyurethane Gel?


Sticky pads are made using naturally adhesive polyurethane gels. The process includes:


• Sheet Formation: Open-cast sheets of polyurethane gel.

• Cutting: Shape the sheets as needed.

• Lamination: Create thin adhesive layers for PSA applications.


Northstar Polymers’ PSA-specific formulations: • GK-22R • GK-7R4


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What Are Additional Applications of Polyurethane Gel Elastomers?


Polyurethane gels excel in vibration absorption and impact resistance, making them ideal for:


• Cable Connector Gaskets: Waterproofing cable joints.

• Vibration Protection: Shielding sensitive items from impacts.

• Encapsulation: Safeguarding electronic circuits.

• Friable Applications: Re-enterable potting compounds or fillers.

• Puncture Free Tires: Fill tires or line the inside wall of tire to prevent flat tires.


Recommended products:


• For Cable Joint Gaskets: MPP-V20C

• For Vibration Dampening: MCG-1, MSN-V40A

• For Friable Encapsulation and Puncture Free Tires: TFG-5, SAI-1


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Are Polyurethane Gel Elastomers Made of Renewable Raw Materials?


Yes, some formulations use bio-based raw materials, such as castor oil and byproducts from biodiesel production.


Explore bio-based options: • MPC-W44B • MCP-V40A • TFG-5


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Can Polyurethane Gel Be Used in Food Contact, Medical, or Personal Care Products?


Generally, no. Polyurethane gels are made of industrial-grade raw materials that:


• Absorb water, making them unsuitable for food or personal care.

• Fail cytotoxicity tests due to impurities and water permeation.

• May irritate skin on prolonged contact. For medical applications, polyurethane gel materials are encapsulated in flexible film casings to avoid direct contact.


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Contact Northstar Polymers Discover how Northstar Polymers can support your polyurethane gel projects with innovative formulations. Reach out today!