Degradation of polyurethanes in sea water

摘要

The estimation of degradability of different polyurethanes in the Baltic Sea water and liquid medium containing sea water with sodium azide (NaN_3) was the subject of this study. The incubation of polymer samples took place in both environments for a period up to 12 months. The characteristic parameters of sea water are presented and their influence on degradation of polyurethanes is discussed. The changes of weight, tensile strength and morphology of polyurethane samples were tested after particular period of incubation in both environments. It is demonstrated that the degree of degradation of polyurethanes in sea water is dependent on the degree of crosslinking.