This comprehensive book explores isocyanate chemistry and technology, highlighting industrial applications in a variety of end markets, including foam, coatings, adhesives, polymer networks, and biomedical polymers. Current and future environmental issues are reviewed, with discussions of safe handling, toxicity, recycling, and synthesis from renewable resources.

From the Preface: “...[P]olyurethane products range from cellular materials, such as flexible foams for seating applications and rigid insulating foams, to coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers...Often isocyanates are used as building blocks for agricultural and pharmaceutical chemicals, and they are also useful blocking agents for functional groups, which can be of interest in peptide chemistry. The future of this vibrant field with endless possibilities for new and unique applications remains bright.”

Target Audience: Researchers and technologists in industry and academia who are concerned with the chemistry of isocyanates, and their applications in polymer and biochemistry.

Table of Contents:

Monoisocyanates:

Alkyl and Aryl Isocyanates

Unsaturated Isocyanates

Halogenated Alkyl and Aryl Isocyanates

Carbonyl, Thiocarbonyl and Imidoyl Isocyanates

Sulfur Isocyanates

Phosphorous Isocyanates

Inorganic Isocyanates

Applications of Monoisocyanates

Diisocyanates:

Aliphatic Diisocyanates

Aromatic Diisocyanates

Environmental Considerations:

Toxicity

Safety Aspects

Environmental Impact

Isocyanates and Polyurethane Chemicals Based on Renewable Resources

A World Without Isocyanates

Index