Polysulfone(PSU) Material Characterization

Polysulfone (PSU) refers to a class of polymer materials characterized by an alkyl-SO2-alkyl structural unit. These polymers are noted for their excellent recovery posture and stability at high temperatures, capable of withstanding continuous pressure at temperatures up to 150°C (302°F).

In 1965, Union Carbide in the United States first industrialized the production of polysulfone. Due to the high cost of raw materials and the difficulty in processing, polysulfone is typically used in applications that require very strict material specifications, including medical surgical instruments, membrane filtration; aerospace, automotive exteriors, and fuel system components, among others. PSU polysulfone is also a high-end alternative to polycarbonate.

Polysulfone (PSU) polymers are rigid, high-strength, and transparent, retaining these properties between −100°C and 150°C. PSU material boasts very high dimensional stability; the size change when exposed to boiling water or 150°C air or steam generally falls below 0.1%. Its glass transition temperature is 185°C.

Polysulfone material is highly resistant to mineral acids, alkali, and electrolytes, maintaining polysulfone chemical compatibility in pH ranging from 2 to 13. It exhibits polysulfone chemical resistance to oxidizing agents, making it cleanable with bleaches, and is also resistant to surfactants and hydrocarbon oils. However, it is not resistant to low-polar organic solvents (e.g., ketones and chlorinated hydrocarbons) and aromatic hydrocarbons. Mechanically, polysulfone has high compaction resistance, recommending its use under high pressures. Additionally, PSU material is stable in aqueous acids and bases and many non-polar solvents but is soluble in dichloromethane and methylpyrrolidone.

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