Theoretical modeling of the relationship between Young's modulus and formulation variables for segmented polyurethanes

We describe a new modeling approach to prediction of Young's modulus of segmented polyurethanes. This approach combines micromechanical models with thermodynamic considerations based on the theory of block copolymers. The resulting model predicts both the equilibrium morphology and the “ideal” Young's modulus of a segmented polyurethane polymer as a function of its formulation (hard segment chemical structure, hard segment weight fraction, soft segment equivalent weight) and temperature.