Preparation and properties of polyurethane film with photothermal conversion and energy storage capability
ISSN: 0369-9420
Article publication date: 30 July 2021
Issue publication date: 22 September 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide a flexible polyurethane (PU) film with visible light trapping ability, photothermal conversion and energy storage performance by covalently bonded a visible light absorbing dye into the polymer through copolymerization.
Design/methodology/approach
For this target solution copolymerization of diphenyl-methane-diisocyanate (MDI), poly(1,4-butylene adipate) (PBA2000), polyethylene glycol (PEG) of different molecular weight, self-made dye, 1,4-butanediol (BuOH) was carried out in a flame-dried flask under an inert nitrogen (N2) atmosphere. First, an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer of dried PEG, MDI and PBA2000 was prepared in dimethylformamide and stirred for 1 h at 35°C. Then, self-made dye and 1, 4-butanediol (BuOH) were added and heated at 85°C for 3 h to get photothermal conversion polyurethane (PTPU) solution. Allowed the solution to dry at room temperature for seven days and then at 65°C for 12 h to get PTPU films.
Findings
The flexible PU films with photothermal conversion and energy storage performances were successfully synthesized and the functional films presented both excellent energy storage and mechanical property when the molecular weight of PEG was in the range of 6,000∼10,000.
Research limitations/implications
The materials that were used in this research paper had a reasonably low cost. Also, the procedures for the synthesis of dye and polymers were extremely easy because there was no need for high pressure or temperature and no dangerous solvents were used.
Practical implications
The photothermal conversion property and mechanical performance of the synthesized flexible PU films were characterized. The results have proved that these films were soft and elastic, and have certain photothermal conversion and energy storage ability, thus can be used in the surface finishing of special fabric and leather.
Originality/value
Visible light trapping photothermal conversion PU flexible film with energy storage capability was prepared for the first time.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors want to acknowledge the support of the Special Foundation of High-Level Teachers Team Building in Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology for financial support of this research under the grant number of BIFTXZ201808. The authors also declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Citation
Bao, L., Cao, S. and Tu, L. (2021), "Preparation and properties of polyurethane film with photothermal conversion and energy storage capability", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 50 No. 5, pp. 444-452. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-12-2020-0120
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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