Polytetramethylene ether glycol
The premium polyether polyol: PTMEG soft segments give polyurethane elastomers outstanding abrasion resistance, resilience and hydrolysis stability.
Polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG, also PTMG or polyTHF) is made by ring-opening polymerization of tetrahydrofuran. Its repeating unit has four carbons between ether oxygens, more regular than PPG. Common grades have molecular weights of 650, 1,000 and 2,000 g/mol; PTMEG 2000 has an OH number near 56.
PTMEG is used where mechanical performance justifies the cost: abrasion-resistant cast and spray elastomers, high-performance prepolymers, wear-resistant linings and spandex fibers.
Its regular, linear chains give tougher, more resilient soft segments than PPG, with good hydrolysis and microbial resistance. Higher-molecular-weight grades are waxy solids at room temperature and are melted before use.
PTMEG is low in hazard. Melt it with gentle, even heat, keep it dry and avoid prolonged high temperatures that can degrade the polyether.
PTMEG gives tougher, more abrasion-resistant elastomers; PPG is cheaper and lower in viscosity. Many formulas blend them.
Its regular chain structure lets segments crystallize, so higher-molecular-weight grades are waxy solids that melt a little above room temperature.
