Russia is preparing to switch to its own rubbers for construction, automotive industry development, footwear, and clothing.
Specialists at GIPH have completed research work on a laboratory unit for studying the process of carbon monoxide synthesis. The results obtained will allow the creation of modular plants for the production of phosgene – a gas that is widely used in organic synthesis due to its chemical properties. In particular, it is used for phosgenation processes. This technology will create a domestic production of raw materials for obtaining urethane rubbers.
Urethane rubber, also known as SKU according to the Russian classification, is a polyurethane with rubber-like properties, high tensile strength, and low abrasion. It is resistant to oils, fuels, solvents, ultraviolet light, radiation, ozone, but has low hydrolytic stability and relatively low heat resistance.
Depending on the method of polymer processing, urethane rubbers differ in characteristics. They are divided into several categories and used to manufacture massive tires for in-plant transport, conveyor belts, drive belts, seals and shock absorbers, elements of footwear and clothing, parts of prostheses, implants and other medical devices, and other products. In construction, urethane rubbers are used for waterproofing and thermal insulation.