CA2328156C - A flexible polyurethane material - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a flexible two component polyurethane and method for producing the polyurethane. The cured polyurethane is flexible, durable and weather resistant. The polyurethane is suitable for use as a protective layer on various substrates.The flexible polyurethane is the reaction product of solvent-free reaction components. The first component includes one or more polyols, optionally, one or more diols, and a catalyst. The second component includes a primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinker.

Description

A FLEXIBLE POLYURETHANE MATERIAL

Field of the Invention This invention relates to a flexible, polyurethane material, more particularly, to a solvent free, two-component polyurethane and, even more particularly, to such a polyurethane which is transparent and exhibits improved flexibility, durability and weathering characteristics. The present invention also includes an article utilizing the polyurethane as a top coat, and a method of making such a polyurethane top coat.
Background of the Invention Decorative articles often utilize a polyurethane top coat to cover or protect a base substrate and any indicia or decorative features located on the substrate. The articles may include various substrates upon which printing or profiled graphics have been applied. The polyurethane material is generally clear or optically transparent and fiinctions as a lens in order to display the substrate or any indicia applied thereon. The decorative articles have a wide variety of uses in both interior and exterior applications. For example, model names for automobiles are often displayed in a decorative manner on an exterior surface of the vehicle. The polyurethane covers and protects the indicia displayed on the model nameplate.
Polyurethanes are generally applied onto articles or substrates as a solution or flowable reaction mass which is then cured to form a lens. The flow characteristics of the uncured polyurethane are important in developing a polyurethane coating at a sufficient and desired thickness upon curing.
Some polyurethanes, upon curing, are rigid, non-flexible polymers. The rigidity of the article is often due to the chemical structure of the components used in the formulation of the polyurethane. Rigid polyurethanes are susceptible to abrasion and scratching. Additionally, the materials do not demonstrate an appropriate level of self-healing. Self-healing describes the ability of the polyurethane to return to its original shape or appearance after being deformed, such as by scratching.

.2-Polyurethanes are applied onto various types of substrates. However, some specific substrates are not suitable for use with conventional polyurethanes.
Some substrates are susceptible to absorbing an amount of moisture which can react with the polyurethane to form bubbles in the cured polyurethane. The formation of bubbles in the polyurethane is tenmed outgassing. For polyurethanes containing an isocyanate, outgassing may also occur when certain porous substrates, for example polyvinyl chloride, are backed with adhesives containing carboxyl groups. The porous substrate permits the reaction of the isocyanate in the polyurethane with carboxyl groups in the adhesive. This reaction results in the release of carbon dioxide which generally becomes trapped in the polyurethane. The occurrence of outgassing in a cured polyurethane is aesthetically undesirable.
Conventional two-component polyurethanes are typically either solvent based or utilize polyethers as the primary hydroxyl source. The solvent based polyurethanes are generally not viscous enough to provide a desired thickness to the polyurethane lens. Additionally, solvent based polyurethanes, when applied as top coats, do not permit the complete evaporation of the solvent from the polyurethane. The incomplete evaporation can produce striations, parting lines, or bubbles in the polyurethane and therefore result in an aesthetically unacceptable top coat. Polyether based polyurethane mixtures can provide suitable flexible properties. However, they tend to degrade and yellow when exposed to sunlight.
Thus, existing polyurethane compositions, and methods for producing them, often result in undesirable finished properties or are unsuitable for exterior applications.
There is a need to provide a polyurethane that is flexible, durable, and weather resistant. Additionally, such a polyurethane should be applicable to various substrates without experiencing a substantial amount of outgassing. A
polyurethane having the noted properties would be suitable for use a protective coating on various substrates for both interior and/or exterior applications.
Summary of the Invention The present invention provides a two component polyurethane, an article utilizing the polyurethane, and a method of making the polyurethane. The cured -3_ polyurethane is flexible, durable and weather resistant. The optically transparent polyurethane is suitable for use as a protective coating on various substrates.
The polyurethane of the present invention has primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinking. The polyurethane is the reaction product of two reaction components.
The first reaction component includes one or more polyols. The polyol portion of the first component has an equivalent weight in the range from about 28 to about 3000. The first component also includes one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range from about 30 to about 4000. The desired diol is a combination of a short chain diol, having an equivalent weight in the range from about 30 to about 400, and a polymeric diol, having an equivalent weight in the range from about 400 to about 4000. Polyol and diol compounds suitable for use in the flrst component may include polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polyalkylenes, and polyethers, or combinations thereof. Additiona.lly, a catalyst is included in the first component.
The second component includes a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate crosslinker. The noted polyisocyanate preferably represents at least about 50 weight percent of the total isocyanate present in the second component. The first and second-components are combined to form a solvent-free admixture which may then be applied onto a desired substrate and cured. The viscosity of the admixture is generally in the range of about 400 cps to about 5000 cps at 25 C.
The viscosity of the material enables the formation of a lens, or meniscus, over the substrate.
The cured, optically transparent polyurethane is flexible, durable and weather resistant. The flexibility of the polyurethane is demonstrated through the Shore A hardness test, the flexural modulus test, and the storage modulus test. The polyurethane has a Shore hardness of less than 94, a storage modulus of 1.0 x 10g pascals or less, and a flexural modulus of 1.0 x IO$ pascals or less.
The durability and weather resistant properties of the present invention are demonstrated through such tests as the Hoffman scratch resistance test and the heat aging test. The polyurethane of the present invention has a surface with a Hoffman scratch-hardness test result of 2 or less.
Additionally, the polyurethane exhibits a color shift value of 1 or less when subjected to the heat aging test.

It would be an advantage to provide a polyurethane that is flexible, durable, and weather resistant. A
polyurethane having the noted properties would be suitable for use as a protective layer for both interior and exterior applications.

It would be a further advantage to provide a polyurethane that prevents outgassing when applied onto a substrate. The ability to prevent outgassing would enable the use of the polyurethane on a variety of substrates and decorative articles.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a polyurethane comprising a reaction product of: a first component comprising one or more polyols having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range of 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and a second component comprising a primary aliphatic isocyanate, wherein the first component and second component together are solvent free.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a polyurethane with primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinking, said polyurethane comprising a reaction product of a solvent-free admixture of one or more polyols, optionally one or more diols, a catalyst, and a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate, wherein about 25% or more of the total crosslink density is contributed by the polyisocyanate, said polyurethane exhibiting at least one of the properties selected from the group consisting of a flexural modulus of 1.0x108 pascals or -4a-less, a storage modulus of 1.0x10$ pascals or less, a Shore A
hardness of less than 94, a Hoffman scratch-hardness test result of 2 or less, and a color shift, in accordance with heat aging test ASTM D2244-79, within 1 delta E.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of producing a polyurethane as described herein, comprising: reacting a first component and a second component, wherein said first component comprises a polyol having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally, one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range from 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and said second component comprises a primary aliphatic isocyanate, wherein said first and second components are solvent free.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article comprising: a) a substrate selected from polymeric material, wood, fabric, reinforced polymers, metal, reflective sheeting, and combinations thereof, wherein the polymeric material or the polymer of the reinforced polymer comprises a polyvinyl chloride, polyester, acrylic polymer, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyethylene acrylic acid copolymer, or polyvinyl acetate; and b) a polyurethane applied as a protective layer on a first surface of said substrate, said polyurethane comprising the polyurethane as described herein.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article comprising: a substrate comprising a first surface, said substrate selected from polymeric material, wood, fabric, reinforced polymers, metal, reflective sheeting, and combinations thereof, wherein the polymeric material or the polymer of -4b-the reinforced polymer comprises a polyvinyl chloride, polyester, acrylic polymer, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyethylene acrylic acid copolymer, or polyvinyl acetate;
indicia on at least a portion of the first surface of the substrate; and a polyurethane applied as a protective layer over the indicia and any exposed portions of the first surface of said substrate, wherein the polyurethane is a reaction product of: a first component comprising one or more polyols having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range from 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and a second component comprising at least 50 weight percent of a primary polyisocyanate having a functionality of at least three, and wherein the first and second components together are solvent free; wherein the first and second components form a solvent-free admixture having an NCO:OH ratio of 0.75 to 1.25.

Brief Description of the Drawings The above, as well as other advantages of the present invention, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an article formed utilizing the polyurethane of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of another article formed utilizing the polyurethane of the present invention; and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an article using a three-dimensional substrate and the polyurethane of the present invention.

-4c-Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments The preferred polyurethane of the present invention has primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinking.
The polyurethane is the reaction product of a two component system. The resulting reaction mass of the two components is generally solvent-free. In accordance with the invention, solvent free means that the reaction mass contains an amount of water or organic solvents at levels that do not adversely affect the viscosity of the reaction mass and thereby prevent the formation of a lens.
Additionally, the amount of water or organic solvent must sufficiently evaporate upon curing in order to prevent the formation of striations, parting lines, or bubbles in the cured polyurethane. Preferably, solvent-free means there is less than about five weight percent water or organic solvents in the combined admixture of the reaction components. More preferably, the solvent content in the combined reaction components is less than about one weight percent.
The first reaction component contains one or more polyols, optionally, one or more diols, and a catalyst. The polyols utilized in accordance with the present invention are compounds having 3 or more hydroxyl groups. The polyols are generally selected from the group consisting of polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polyalkylenes, and polyethers, or combinations thereof. The polyol, or combined polyols, have an equivalent weight in the range of about 28 to about 3000. In the present invention, equivalent weight corresponds to the molecular weight of the material divided by the number of hydroxyl groups. Combinations of polyols within the noted equivalent weight limitation may be suitable for use with the invention. However, the amount of polyether in the first reaction component, whether provided as a polyol or diol, preferably should not exceed about 40 weight percent of the first component. Amounts of polyethers in excess of the noted limitation can adversely affect the clarity or the weathering properties of the present invention. Desirably, polyester based polyols and diols, fonming greater than about weight percent polyester in the first reaction component, are used in the present invention in order to improve outdoor durability. The polyol comprises in the range from greater than about 10 weight percent of the first reaction component.
20 Optionally, one or more diols are included in the first reaction component.
The diols are compounds that have two hydroxyl groups. In addition to polyester diols, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polyalkylene, and polyether diols, or combinations of the noted compounds, may be utilized in the present invention.
The one or more diols have a combined equivalent weight in the range of about to about 4000. Additionally, the diols comprise in the range up to about 65 weight percent of the first reaction component. Desirably, the diols include the combination of a short chain diol, having an equivalent weight in the range from about 30 to about 400, and a polymeric, or long chain diol having an equivalent weight in the range of from about 400 to about 4000. Additionally, it has been found that when a polyester and a polyether are utilized in the first reaction component, the combined amount of polyether, whether provided as a polyol or diol, preferably should not exceed about 40 weight percent of the first reaction component.
The first reaction component of the present invention also requires a catalyst. The isocyanate groups of the second component react with the hydroxyl groups of the first component under the influence of the catalyst to form urethane linkages. Conventional catalysts generally recognized for use in the polymerization of urethanes may be suitable for use with the present invention. For example, aluminum, bismuth, tin, vanadiuni, zinc, or zirconium based catalysts may be used with the present invention. Though not desired because of the their potential toxicity, mercury based catalyst may also be used. The desired catalysts are tin based catalyst. Tin based catalyst have been found to significantly reduce the amount of outgassing present in the polyurethane. Most desirable are dibutyl tin compounds. Even more desirable are the catalyst selected from the group consisting of dibutyltin diacetate, dibutyltin dilaurate, dibutyltin diacetylacetonate, dibutyltin dimercaptide, dibutyltin dioctoate, dibutyltin dimaleate, dibutyltin acetonylacetonate, and dibutyltin oxide. The catalyst is preferably included at levels of at least 200 ppm in the first component and more preferably at 300 ppm or greater.
OptionaUy, the first reaction component of the present invention can include various additives. For example, leveling agents may be utilized in the first reaction component to ensure a smooth finish to the exposed surface of the polyurethane. A
polyethylene oxide modified polymethyl siloxane can be utilized in the present invention as a leveling agent. However, other leveling agents generally recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art may also be suitable for use with the invention.
The leveling agents are desirably included in the range from about 0.01 weight percent to about 1 weight percent.
Another additive to the first component can include UV absorbers which improve the weather resistance of the polyurethane top coat. The UV absorbers generally recognized in the art may be suitable for use with the invention.
Alternatively, a hindered amine radical scavenger can be included in the first reaction component or combined with an UV absorber. The hindered amine free radical scavengers generally recognized in the art contribute to photostabilization of the polyurethane by trapping alkoxy and hydroxy radicals produced by light-induced dissociatipn of hydroperoxides. The amount of UV absorber in the first component is desirably in the range from about 0.1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent.
The amount of hindered amine radical scavenger in the first component in desirably in the range of about 0.1 weight percent to about 2 weight percent.
Additionally, moisture scavengers, antioxidants, and antifoaming agents can be included with the first reaction component. Conventional compounds of the noted categories generally recognized by those skilled in the art may be suitable for use in the present invention to improve the finished properties of the polyurethane.
Moisture scavengers are desirably included at levels in the range of about 0.1 weight percent to about 3 weight percent. The antioxidant is desirably included in a range of about 0.1 weight percent to about 2 weight percent. Antifoaming agents are desirably included in an amount from about 0.2 weight percent or less.
Other compounds, such as coloring agents and decorative solids, can be added to the first component to enhance to the aesthetics of the finished polyurethane. Coloring agents, such as pigments or dyes, are included at various levels to obtain a desired effect. Decorative solids could include such items as metal flakes, polymeric flakes, glitter, beads, or other materials that provide a decorative feature to the finished polyurethane. The decorative solids are also included in various amounts to obtain a desired effect to the finished article.
In accordance with the present invention, a second component is provided which includes a primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinker, and preferably a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate crosslinker. A primary isocyanate is defined as one having a carbon atom that has an -NCO group and two hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atom. The primary isocyanate is an important factor in providing a flexible polyurethane that does not exhibit a substantial amount of outgassing.
Outgassing can occur when the isocyanate component of the polyurethane undesirably reacts with a source of water or carboxyl groups and not the hydroxyl groups present in the f rst component.
\1 In the present invention, it is preferred that the second reaction component include a primary polyisocyanate in an amount of about 50 weight percent or greater. This generally corresponds to polyisocyanate crosslinking of about 25 weight percent or greater in the cured polyurethane. The primary aliphatic polyisocyanate may be the only isocyanate source in the component or it may be combined with other primary aliphatic isocyanates, such as monomeric isocyanates.
The utilization of secondary isocyanates can result in the rigid polyurethanes or polyurethanes which exlulait outgassing. Conventional primary aliphatic polyisocyanate crosslinkers may be suitable for use with the present invention. For example, Desmodur XP-7100 and Desmodur N-3300 from Bayer Chernical of Pittsburgh, PA are two polyisocyanates suitable for use with the invention.
Additionally, the polyisocyanate may be a blocked polyisocyanate to further enhance the reduction of outgassing in the cured polyurethane. Blocked polyisocyanates will not react until a desired curing temperature is achieved, thereby further preventing the undesired reaction of the isocyanate with water or carboxyl groups. Polyisocyanate levels of at least about 50 weight percent of the total isocyanate present in the second component may substantially reduce outgassing in the cured polyurethane.
The crosslink density of a polyurethane is calculated by dividing the weight of the reaction components having a functionality of three or greater by the total weight of the polyurethane and multiplying by 100. Generally, rigid polyurethanes have relatively high cross link densities of 30% or higher. In accordance with the present invention, the use of a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate results in a flexible polyurethanes having a high crosslink density. When the polyisocyanate content of the second reaction component is about 50 weight percent or greater, crossiink densities are 30 percent or greater, and preferably 40 percent or greater. The flexibility of the resulting urethanes, according to the flexural modulus test, are generally 1.0x108 or less.
The first and second reaction components are combined to form a solvent-free adntixture having an NCO:OH ratio of about 0.75 to about 1.25. The reaction components, prior to mixing, are desirably maintained at specified viscosity .9_ ranges. The viscosity measurements for the present invention were measured on a Brookfield Viscometer model RV with spindle number 4 at about 20 rpm. The viscosity of the first component is desirably maintained in the range from about 200 cps to about 5000 cps at 25 C. The viscosity of the second reaction component is desirably maintained in the range from about 100 cps to about 5000 cps at 25 C.
Upon mixing, the viscosity of the admixture is in the range from about 400 cps to about 5000 cps at 25 C, and desirably in the range from about 600 cps to about 4000 cps.
The viscosity of the uncured polyurethane is important in achieving a desired thickness and continuity in the cured polyurethane lens when applied over a substrate. The viscosity limitation also provides a pourable reaction mass that flows well onto a substrate. It is desired that the reaction mass flow to the edge of the substrate and form a radius of curvature, without actually overflowing the substrate.
The viscosity limitation also enhances the ability to achieve desired layer thicknesses. A higher viscosity than the noted limitation may result in striations or parting lines in the finished polyurethane. A lower viscosity will not permit the polyurethane to form the desired meniscus or lens over the substrate. The polyurethane of the present invention is capable of achieving thicknesses of greater than 0.13 mm , and preferably greater than 0.25 mm.
In accordance with the present invention, the admixture is applied onto a substrate and cured to form a polyurethane coating. The curing of the polymer may be accomplished by heating the material, applying infrared radiation, or curing at ambient temperatures. Other conventional curing techniques recognized by those skilled in the art may be suitable for use with the present invention.
Desirably, the polyurethane is cured in a convection oven at 52 C for about 10 hours. One advantage of the present invention over conventional polyurethane s is that the polyurethane is tack free after about one hour of curing at about 52 C. The tack free polyurethane can then be handled without being completely cured.
Upon curing, the polyurethane of the present invention exhibits desired flexibility, durability, and weather resistant properties. Preferably, the polyether segments, resulting from the use of polyether based polyols and diols in the first component, represent no more than 20 weight percent in the cured polyurethane.
More preferably, the polyether segments in the cured polyurethane is about 15 weight percent or less. A polyether content in excess of the noted limitation may adversely impact the clarity and weathering properties of the cured polyurethane.
The flexibility of the present invention enables use of the polyurethane on various articles. For example, the present invention may be utilized as a protective layer on an adhesive backed substrate. The flexibility of the polyurethane of the present invention enables the application of the coated article on curved or non-planer surfaces. The flexibility significantly reduces the tendency of the polyurethane to spring back to its originally cured form after being bonded to a surface.
The flexibility of the polyurethane is demonstrated by the Shore A hardness properties, the storage modulus, and the flexural modulus. The Shore A
hardness test of the present inventive polyurethane is generally less than 94, and preferably less than 92. Shore A hardness levels in excess of 94 are considered stiff or rigid.
The storage modulus indicates the rigidity of the polyurethane under tension.
The polyurethanes of the present invention have a storage modulus of 1.0x108 or less.
The flexural modulus measures the flexibility of the polyurethane under tortional strain. The polyurethanes of the present invention have a flexural modulus of 1.0x108 or less. Additionally, the flexibility of the polyurethane is often indicated by its self-healing characteristics, or the ability to return to its original shape upon deformation.
The durability and weathering properties of the present. invention are important features which enable the use of the polyurethane in various environments. For applications of the polyurethane in exterior environments, the polyurethane must not yellow or significantly change color when exposed to environmental conditions. The present invention, when subjected to a heat aging test in accordance with ASTM D2244-79, exhibits a color shift within I delta E.
Other environmental tests utilized to indicate acceptable exterior performance are the salt spray test, the humidity resistance test, and the thermal shock test.
A
polyurethane should remain clear and not cloudy or opaque upon completion of the noted tests. The durability of the polyurethane top coat is measured by the Hofl'man scratch resistance test which indicates the abrasion resistance of the material. The present invention generally has a Hoffiman scratch resistance of 2 or less.
The polyurethane of the present invention may be applied to various substrates to form a layer on the substrate, or a portion of the substrate.
The substrate may include wood, polymeric material, fiber reinforced polymers, metal, or combinations thereof. The choice of substrate is dependent upon the desired end use. Some examples of combined substrates would include metal coated polymer films and polymer sealed wood or wood veneer. The polyurethane of the present invention is ideally suited for applications with substrates containing moisture or applications permitting the direct or indirect contact of the isocyanate with carboxyl groups. For example, a porous substrate with an adhesive backing permits the indirect contact of the isocyanate in the polyurethane reaction mass with carboxyl groups in the adhesive.

The polyurethane of the present invention is ideally suited for use in forming decorative articles requiring a transparent layer. Some decorative articles utilize a substrate with indicia applied onto the substrate. Indicia includes any distinctive marks or representations. In accordance with the present invention, the polyurethane may be applied directly onto the substrate and the indicia.
In the present invention, indicia could include such items as printed graphics or three-dimensional graphics. Printed indicia may be applied onto the substrate, for example, with solvent based inks, water-based inks, UV
inks, or powder inks. The printed indicia may be applied through various processes including screen printing, flexo-printing, gravure printing, digital printing, off-set printing, and pad printing. Three dimensional graphics may also be applied onto the substrate or may, by themselves, serve as the substrate. Three dimensional graphics may include for example, a cured polyurethane body with a tie layer bonded to the polyurethane. An adhesive is then applied to the opposing surface of the tie layer. An example of three-dimensional graphics would include those disclosed in EP 0392847. Other types and styles of indicia may also be utilized with the present invention. Alternatively, the article may include several different types or styles of indicia applied, or layered upon the substrate. The polyurethane of the present invention is well suited for this style of application because it does not permit a substantial amount of outgassing. This layered style of indicia can directly expose an adhesive to the urethane top coat. This type of application with a conventional polyurethane often results in a significant amount of outgassing in the cured polyurethane. The present invention does not experience a substantial amount of outgassing, thereby enabling the direct exposure of the adhesive to the polyurethane.
FIG. 1 illustrates an article made in accordance with the present invention.
.10 The article 10 includes a polymeric base substrate 12 upon which the polyurethane top coat 14 of the present invention is applied. The polymeric base substrate could desirably include polyvinyl chloride, polyester, acrylic polymers, polycarbonates, polyurethanes, polyethylene acrylic acid copolymer, polyvinylacetates, and reflective sheeting. An adhesive 16 may be attached to a surface 18 of the substrate 12 opposite the surface 20 upon which the polyurethane 14 is applied. The adhesive may include various adhesive attachment systems, for example, pressure sensitive adhesives, contact adhesives, hot melt adhesives, and structural adhesives. A release liner 22 is attached to the adhesive 16 until removed upon final application of the article 10 to a desired surface (not shown). The substrate 12 includes indicia 24 applied onto surface 20 of the substrate 12.
The indicia 24 is covered by the polyurethane top coat 14.
Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 generally includes an article 30 having a base substrate 32 and a polyurethane top coat 34 applied over the substrate. Affixed to the substrate 32 is an adhesive 36. A
removable release liner 38 is attached to the adhesive. A first layer of indicia 40 is applied to a surface of the substrate 32. A second article containing indicia 42 is then applied over the first layer of indicia 40. The second article 42 includes a substrate 44, an adhesive 46, and indicia 48 applied to the substrate 44 opposite the adhesive 46. The polyurethane top coat 34 of the present invention is applied over the base substrate 32 and the second article 42.

FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. The article 50 includes a three dimensional substrate 52. A polyurethane top coat 54 is applied over the three dimensional substrate 52. A release liner 56 is applied to a surface of the substrate opposite the polyurethane top coat 54.
The following non-litniting examples further illustrate the present invention.
Unless otherwise'indicated, the following test procedures were used in the examples. The particular materials and amounts recited in these examples, as well as other conditions and details, are to be interpreted broadly in the art and should not be construed to unduly restrict or limit the invention in any way.
Test Methods Hoffman Scratch and Mar Resistance Test:
The scratch and mar of the polyurethanes. were measured by a Balanced-Beam Scrape tester described in ASTM-2197-86. The Hoffman stylus was held at 45 degrees from vertical with the top sloping in the direction of test sample travel.
The stylus was held in place by a fulcrum elevated at 22 degrees. A 1000-Gram-weight was placed on the weight support. The beam was lowered until the loop rested on top of the test specimen, following which the sliding platform was slowly pushed across the specimen. The scratch test was performed at 25 C. A
successful test will result in the polyurethane coat showing no permanent injury, scratch, or defect after 1 hour.

I~.umidity Resistance:
The polyurethanes were applied over a tin vapor coated polyester film and cured. Each sample was placed in a humidity condensing chamber with 100%
relative humidity at 38 C for 7 days. The samples were observed for cloudiness and corrosion upon removal from the chamber.

Heat Aging:
The polyurethanes were applied onto a white ink printed standard tin coated polyester substrate and cured. The samples were put in an 80 C oven for 7 days.

Upon removal, the polyurethane coat was observed to detenmine any significant yellowing in color. The color difference or change was measured by standard test ASTM D2244-79. The color difference (Delta E) was calculated by the CIE 1976 L* a* b* Uniform Color Space and Color-Difference Equation. For successful results, the value of Delta E shall not exceed 1.
Salt ra :
The polyurethanes were applied onto a tin coated polyester substrate and cured. The samples were put into a salt spray chamber, which had 5% NaCl solution atomized at 35 C. Upon removal after 10 days, the samples were observed for cloudiness and corrosion.

Shore A Hardness:
Shore A Hardness was measured by Shore A Durometer according to ASTM D-2240.
Thermal Shock:
The polyurethanes were applied onto tin coated polyester and cured. Each sample was tested at 10 cycles of the following tests:
- 4 Hours at -30 C.

- 5 minutes immersion at 85 C water.
The samples were observed for cloudiness and corrosion.
Storaae Modulus Test:
The E' (storage modulus) is a measure of flexibility of a material. The storage modulus was measured at 25 C in tension using Rheometric Solids Analyzer (RSA II) at a frequency of 6.28 rad/second. The tension was kept at 0.03% strain. The test sample, at a thickness of 1.8 nun and ranging in size from 3.5 mm to 6.5 mm, was mounted with clamps and tightened. In oscillatory flow, a periodic strain of pre-determined amplitude and frequency is applied to the sample, and the stress response of the material is measured. The real part of the Fourier transform of the response gives the elastic modulus, E' (storage modulus).

Flexural Modulus Test:
The flexural modulus was measured at 25 C using Seiko DMS 110 at a frequency of 6.28 rad/second. A strip of sample, having a thickness of 1.8 mm and ranging from 10 mm to 13 mm in width and 20 mm in length, was mounted in the dual cantilever fixture. A strain amplitude of 30 microns was used to determine the flexural modulus of the sample.

Substrates utilized in the Examples:
Substrate (1) was prepared by screen printing a ScotchcalTm 7900 Series solvent-based phosphorescent ink using a 110 mesh screen on ScotchliteT"d Reflective Engineering Sheeting both supplied from the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company of St. Paul Minnesota. The ink was dried for 30 minutes at 80 C. Substrates (2)-(4) were standard ScotchcalTm p-series films from the Minnesota-Mining and Manufacturing Company. Substrate (5) was prepared by digitally printing a standard powder toner onto a white PVC film. Substrate (6) was made by rotary printing ScotchcalTm 7900 Series solvent-based black metallic ink with carbon fiber pattern on silver PVC film. Substrate (7) was made by applying die-cut PVC graphics onto a hologram polyester film substrate. Substrate (8) was an uncleared and uncut standard 3-Dimensional Graphics from the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. Substrate (9) was made by applying uncleared/laser cut 3-Dimensional Graphics on PVC woodgrain film. Substrate (10) was prepared by screening ScotchcalTm 7900 Series solvent-based white ink with 230 mesh screen on tin metallized film. Substrate (11) was tin metallized fiim.

Example 1:
The first component, which was polyester polyols/diols based, was prepared by mixing 31.9 gams of Formrez-55-225, 30 grams ofFormrez-55-112, and 30 grams of Tone-301 in a round bottom flask and heated to 70 C. The admixture was agitated and de-gassed for 4 hours by vacuum (below about 30 inch Hg) until all the bubbles were stripped off. The temperature of the admixture was cooled down to about 50 C and 0.06 grams of T-I2, 0.2 grams Silwet L-7607, 1.5 grams of Uvinul N-539 and I gram of Tinuvin-292 were then added into the admixture.
The admixture was agitated for 15 minutes. The formulation of the first reaction component, by weight percent, is listed in Table 2.
The second reaction component included 100 grams of polyisocyanate (Desmodur XP-7I04). The first and second reaction components were nvxed in a one to one volume ratio and poured on the above noted eleven substrates. The polyurethanes were cured 10 hours at 52 C in a convection oven. The cured polyurethane did not outgas on any of the substrates and had excellent optical clarity and flexibility.

Comparative Examples 1-4:
The first component in comparative Examples 1 through 4 includes different polyether based polyols and dials. The Examples were prepared according to the same procedure described in Example 1. The polyols and diols utilized for each Example are noted in Table 1.
The second component for Comparative Example I was prepared by reacting 30 grams of Pluracol TP-4040 and 70 grams of Desmodur W for 4 hours at 80 C. The resulting second component was a mixture of a secondary polyisocyanate and monomeric isocyanate (Desmodur W). The second component used in Comparative Example 2 was prepared by reacting 73.5 grams of Desmodur I, with 23.5 grams of Desmophen L951, and 3 grams of Multranol-4011 for 4 hours at 80 C. The resulting Part B comprises a mixture of polyisocyanate with primary and secondary isocyanate functional groups and monomeric Desmodur I.
The polyurethanes were prepared by mixing the first and second reaction components in a one to one volume ratio and then poured onto the noted substrates (1) to (11). The polyurethanes were cured 10 hours at 52 C. The polyurethanes in Comparative Examples 1, 2 and 4 were still tacky when cured one hour at 52 C
convection oven or 10 minutes in IR oven and they had severe outgas on substrates (1) to (9). The polyurethanes were very rigid. The polyurethane in Comparative Example 3 was cloudy.

Exam leR s 2-6:
The first components used in Examples 2-6 were prepared according to the same procedure described in Example 1. The composition of the first component for each Example is listed in Table 1.
The second component used in Example 2 was prepared by reacting 30 grams ofPluracol-538, and 70 grams of Vestanat IPDI for 4 hours at 80 C. The resulting second component included a mixture of polyisocyanate with primary and secondary isocyanate groups and monomeric Vestanat IPDI. The second component used in Example 3 was the same as the one utilized in Comparative Example 1. The second component in Example 3 comprises a mixture of secondary polyisocyanate and monomeric Desmodur W. The second component used in Example 4 was prepared by mixing 70 grams of polyisocyanate and 30 of Desmodur H. The second component used in Example 5 was prepared by mixing 50 gams of polyisocyanate and 50 g Desmodur H.
The polyurethanes were prepared by mixing the first component and the second component in a one to one volume ratio and then applied to substrates (1) through (11). The polyurethanes were cured for 10 hours at 52 C. The polyurethanes in Examples 2 and 3 showed severe outgas on substrates (1) through (9). Although not indicated in the Table, the weathering properties of the Examples 2 and 3 are improved over conventional polyurethanes. Additionally, Examples 2 and 3 were rigid. The flexible polyurethane in Examples 4 and 6 were clear and did not exhibit any outgassing on any of the substrates. The polyurethane in Example 5 exhibited outgassing on substrates (1), (5) and (9).

Conarative Examples 5-8 and Examples 7-12:
The polyester polyoVdiol based first components in Examples 5 through 12 were prepared according to the same procedure described in Examples 1. The ingredients and amounts used for each Example are summarized in Table 4. The type of catalyst was varied for each Example. The various catalysts indicated in the Table.
The polyurethanes were prepared by mixing the first and second reaction components in a one to one volume ratio and then poured onto substrates (1) through (9). The polyurethanes were cured for 10 hours at 52 C. The polyurethane in Examples 7, 9, 10 and 12 didn't outgas and were flexible and optically clear. Comparative Examples 7 and 8 showed severe outgassing on all the substrates tested.
Examples 13-18:
The first components utilized in Examples 13-17 were prepared according to the same procedure described in Example 1. The ingredients were varied in order to demonstrate the effect of varying polyether contents on the cured polyurethane. The ingredients and amounts utilized are summarized in Table 5.
AdditionaUy, Example 18 included a black pigment added to the first reaction component.
The second component in Example 16 was the same as the one used in Comparative Example 2. The second component in Example 17 was the same one utilized in Comparative Example 1. Examples 13 through 15 and 18 utilized a polyisocyanate. The amount of the second component used in each Example is listed in Table 5.
The polyurethanes for Examples 13-17 were prepared by mixing the first and second components in a one to one volume ratio and then poured onto substrates (1) through (11). The polyurethanes were cured for 10 hours at 52 C.
The black pigmented polyurethane in Example 18 was only cast onto substrate (4), a black PVC film. The polyurethane in Example 18 was cured the same way as described in Examples 13-17. The polyurethane in Example 13 was cloudy and therefore unacceptable. The polyurethane in Examples 14 and 15 did not outgas and were clear and flexible. The polyurethanes in Examples 15 and 16 exhibited outgassing on all the substrates tested. Both the Examples were rigid. The pigmented polyurethane in Example 18 was flexible and did not exhibit any outgassing.

Table 1. Materials Used in The Invention.
Desi ation Descri tion Su iier FormrezT"-55-225 Polyester diol (-OH, Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, E Wt=24 N.Y.
Formrez*"-55-112 Polyester diol (-OH, Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, E Wtm500 N.Y.
Tone"m-301 Caprolactone-based polyester Union Carbide, Danbury, CT
triol -OH Wt-100 Tone"'-305 Caprolactone-based polyester Union Carbide, Danbury, CT
triol -OH Wt=180 Pluracol'r" 538 Poly(propylene oride) based BASF, Mount Olive, N.J.
triol -OH Wt-1603 Pluracolm TP-4040 Poly(propylene oxide) based BASF, Mount Olive, N.J.
triol (-OH, E Wt=1368 PluracolTm-220 Poly(propylene oxide) based BASF, Mount Olive, N.J.
triol -OH E Wt=2078 Multranol-4011 Poly(oxyalkylene) ether Bayer Corp, Pittsburgh, PA
(EqWt-109) Desmopben L951 Poly(oxyalkylene) ether Bayer Corp, Pittsburgb, PA
(EqWt-21N
Vestanat'''u IPDI Isophorone diisocyanate HULS America Inc., Piscatawa N.J.
DesmodurTu I Iso horone diisoc anate Bayer Corp, Pittsbu , PA
Desmodur" W Bis(4-isocyanatocyclohexyl) Bayer Corp, Pittsburgh, PA
metbane (EqWt-132) TolanateT" HDT- Polyisocycanate (EqWt=183) Rhodia, Inc., Teaneck, N.J.
LV
DesmodurTM H 1,6-he:amethylene diisocyanate Bayer Corp, Pittsburgh, PA
-NCO E Wt=84 Desmodur'" XP- Polyisocyanate (EqWt=205) Bayer Corp, Pittsburgh, PA

Metacure7"T-12 Dibutyl tin dilaurate Air Products and Chemicals, Allentown, PA
MetacureTMT-9 Stannous octoate Air Products and Chemicals, Allentown, PA
Cotin7"-222 Tin carbo late Caschem, Carlstadt, N.J.
CotinT"-430 Diocyltin dicarboxylate Caschem, Carlstadt, N.J.
FormrezTM SUL-3 Dibutyl tin diacetate Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, N.Y.
FormrezTM UL-22 Dibutyl tin dimercaptide Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, N.Y.
FormrezTm UL-29 Dimethyl tin dimercaptide Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, N.Y.
Octoate Z Zinc ethyloctoate Vanderbilt, Norwalk, CT
R-Kat -8201 Dibutyl tin bis ace lacetonate. King Industries, Norwalk, CT
Uvinul'''" N-539 UV-Li bt Absorber BASF, Parsi an , N.J.
Tinuvin'''"-292 Hindered Amine Ciba-Geigy, Hawthorne, N.Y.

. 20 -Desi ation Description Supplier ITM-1051 Fun cide Ciba-Gei , Hawthorne, N.Y.
Skane M-8 Fun ' ide Rhom and Haas edison, N.J.
SilwetTM L-7607 Polyethylene Oude Modified Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, Po meth 1 siloxane N.Y.
SilwetTM L-77 Polyethylene Oxide Modified Witco Chemical, Tarrytown, Poi eth 1 siloxane N.Y.
Zapon'^' Black R Water-Based Jet Black Dye BASF, Rensselaer, N.Y.
Li id ScotchliteTM Reflective Substrate with 3M, St. Paul, MN
Engineering Grade Pressare Sensitive Adhesive Reflective Sheeting 3-Dimensional 3 Dimensional Graphics with 3M, St. Paul, MN
Gra hics Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Table 2. Pol ether based Polyurethanes Cured on Various Substrates.
Comp. Comp. Comp. Comp.
1' component rams E.1 E. 2 E. 3 E. 4 Pluracol-200 40.0 Multranol-4011 35.0 38.8 35.0 35.0 Pluracol 538 36.8 36.8 36.8 Desmo hen L951 27.7 21.3 27.7 27.7 T-12 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.06 Uvinul N-539 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Tinuvin-292 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Silwet L-7607 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 Silwet L-77 2"d component: 30 grams Pluracol TP-4040+70 100.0 sEMs Desmodur W
2id component:73.5 grams Desmodur 1+ 23.5 - 100.0 100.0 grams of Desmophen L951+ 3 grams Multranol-2id com ent: Desmodur XP-7100 100.0 X-link desnsi % 50.9% 52.6% 85.9% 49.1%
(wt%) Polyether polyols/diois in uretbane top 65% 63.3% 50% 63.3%
coat Isoc anate used 2 1 & 2 i 1 & 2 Clarity of urethane top coat Clear Clear Milky Clear W6ite Fle:ibili of urethane top coat Rigid Rigid Ri 'd (1) Cured on phosphorescent ink Out as Out as Outzas (2)Cured on blue pearl PVC film (P-5338) Outgas Outgas Out (3) Cured on wood rain PVC. Outgas Out as Outpeas (4) Cured on black PVC film -3098 Out Out as Out as (5) Cured on 3M digital printed graphics on Outgas Outgas Outgas wbite PVC film (6) Cured on 3M inks printed graphics on silver Outgas Outgas Outgas PVC film :3450 (7) Cured on PVC graphics on bologram Outgas Outgas Outgas polyester (8) Cured on uncleared/uncut 3-dimensional Outgas Outgas Outgas Lrrsiphics (9) Cured on 3-dimensional graphics on Outgas Outgas Outgas woodgrain PVC

(10) White ink printed standard tin coated OK OK OK
polyester substrate (11) Tin coated polyester substrate OK OK OK

Table 3. Pol ster-Based Po rethanes Cured on Various Substrates.
1" component rams Ez .1 Ez . 2 Ez 3 Ez . 4 Ez . 5 Ez . 6 Formre2-55 225 31.9 30.6 30.6 31.9 31.9 36.8 Formrez-55-112 30.0 30.5 30.5 30.0 30.0 Tone-M 26.1 26.1 59.8 Tone-301 30.0 30.0 30.0 T-12 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.045 Uvinul N 539 1.5 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.5 Tinuvin-292 1.0 1.4 1.4 10 1.0 1.0 arol-1051 0.8 Skane M-8 0.5 Silwet L.7607 0.2 0.5 0.5 0.3 Silwet I.=77 0.15 o.15 2 component: 30 grams Pluracol ---- 100 TP-4fW0+70 rams Desmodur W
2 component: 70 gramsVeatanat - 100.0 IPDI +30 grams Pluracol-538 -2' component: Desmodur 100.0 -2' component: Tolanate HDT-LV 100.0 2' component; Desmodur XP- -- 75.0 7100/Desmodur H=70/30 by wei bt 2 component: Desmodur XP- --- -- 62.0 7100/Desmodur Ii=50/S0 by weight X-link density % 65% 26.3% 28.0% 41.2% 30% 79.9%
iso nate used 1 10 & 2 20 1 10 . 1 Clarity of urethane top coat Ciear Clear Clear Clear Clear Clear Flexibility of uretbane top coat Flexib Rigid Rigid Flezi Flexible Flexi le ble ble (1) Cured on phosphorescent ink OK Outgas Ou ss OK Ou as OK
(2) Cured on blue pearl PVC OK Outgas Outgas OK OK OK

Cured on woodgrain PVC fUm OK Ou as Out as OK OK OK
(4) Cured on black PVC fiim (P- OK Outgas Outgas OK OK OK
3098) (5) Cured on 3M digital printed OK Outgas Outgas OK Outgas OK
graphic on white PVC 81m (6) Cured on 3M inics printed OK Outgas Outgas OK OK OK
graphics on silver PVC film (7) Cured on PVC graphics on OK Outgas Outgas OK OK OK
hologram polyester substrate (8) Cured on uncleared/uncut OK Outgas Outgas OK OK OK
3-dimensional ra hics.
(9) Cured on 3-dimensional graphic OK Outgas Outgas OK Outgas OK
on w oodgm in PVC film (10) White ink printed atandard tin OK OK OK OK
coated polyester substrate.
11 Tin coated polyester substrate OK OK OK OK

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Table S. Clarity of Polyurethanes Made from a Mixture of Polyester/Polyether Polyols/Diols in the First Component and Cured by Primary and Secondary Pol isoc anAtes.
1" component rams Ex . 13 Ex 14 Ex . 15 Ex . 16 Ex . 17 Ex . i$
Tone-301 20.3 25.0 25.0 20.3 20.3 30.0 Piuracol-538 Formrez-55-225 35 Vorano1230-660 Formrez-55-112 30.0 Desmo hen 1,951 49.4 30.0 33.0 49.4 49.4 Formrez-33-112 29.5 43.0 29.5 29.5 Zapon black R li uid 1.5 Formrez-8056-143 41.2 Multranol-4011 35.0 T-12 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.07 Silwet Ir7607 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.30 Uvieul N-539 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.4 fl.4 1.5 Tinuvin 292 0.2 0.2 1.5 2' component: 73.5 grams 100 Desmodur 1+ Grams Desmopben I951+ 3 rams Multranol-4011 2"a component: 30 grams Pluracol 100 TP-4040+70 gmms Desmodur W
2ie component: Desmodur 100 100 100 100 Isocyanate used 1 1 1 1 & 2 2 1 X-lik densit-y % 60.1% 62.5% 62.5% 23.4% 25.1% 62.5%
(wt%) of Polyetber polyols/diols 24.9% 15.0 /. 16.5% 52.7% 54.4% 64.2%
in urethane top coat Clarity of urethane top coat Milky Clear Clear Clear Clear Clear White Flexibility of urethane to coat Flexible Flexible Rigid Rigid Flexible (1) Cured on hos horescent ink. OK OK Ou as Ou as (2) Cured on blue pearl PVC - OK OK Outgas Outgas -533$ .
Cured on woodgrain PVC film. OK OK Outgas Outgas (4) Cured on black PVC -3098 . OK OK Outgas Out as OK
(5) Cured on 3M digital printed OK OK Outgas Outgas ra hics on white PVC film.
(6) Cured on 3M Inks printed OK OK Outgas Outgas -ra hics on silver PVC -3450 (7) Cured on PVC graphics applied OK OK Outgas Outgas on bol ram polyester film.
(8) Cured on uncleared/uncut OK OK Outgas Outgas 3-dimensional ra hics.
(9) Cured on 3-dimensional OK OK Outgas Outgas -gmpbics on wood rain PVC film.
(10) White ink printed standard tin OK OK OK OK
coated polyester substrate.
(11) Standard tin coated 1 ster. OK OK OK OK

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d a e +-~ e~e a~i "" '~i _ o =~ .a `0 `~ w ea x ~t e i- ~,' at 'b o~+ qp 7 ~ e ~ s' au `s o Ri Discussion of Examples and Tables 2-6 Tables 2 and 3 illustrate the impact of primary and secondary isocyanates on the flexibility of the resulting polyurethanes. The Examples utilizing a primary isocyanate resulted in flexible polyurethanes. The Examples utilizing secondary isocyanates, or a combination of primary and secondary isocyanates, result in a rigid polyurethane. Additionally, the Examples indicate that the use of secondary isocyanates results in outgassing in the cured polyurethane. Comparative Example 3 in Table 2 indicates that the use of polyether compounds in an amount of about 50 weight percent resulted in an unclear polyurethane. Additionally, the Tables indicate that the Examples utiliz'ing a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate resulted in flexible polyurethanes with crosslink densities at the same level or higher than the rigid polyurethanes.
Table 4 represents the results of bismuth, tin, and zinc based catalysts on the polyurethane of the present invention. The bismuth and zinc based catalysts resulted in outgassing in the cured polyurethane. The tin based performed much better and only exhibited outgassing on a few types of substrates. The dibutyl tin compounds did not exhibit any outgassing.
The results of the mixed polyether/polyester polyurethanes are listed in Table 5. The results indicate that secondary isocyanates produced rigid polyurethanes. Additionally, the use of secondary isocyanates results in outgassing.
Example 13, with a polyether content in excess of 20 weight percent, was milky white. The Examples utilizing a primary polyisocyanate were flexible and did not outgas. Example 18 demonstrated the use of a black pigment in the first reaction component.
Table 6 illustrates flexibility, durability and weather resistant properties of the polyurethanes. The Examples 1,6, 13, and 14 indicate that the polyurethanes produced in accordance with the present invention exhibit improved flexibility and durability properties over the Comparative Examples. The flexibility and durability of the polyurethanes are demonstrated through the Shore A hardness, storage modulus, flexural modulus, and Hoffman scratch tests. Additionally, the polyester based polyurethanes exhibited improved weathering properties as represented through the salt spray, humidity resistance, and thermal shock tests.
In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the present invention has been described in what is considered to represent its preferred embodiment. However, it should be noted that the invention can be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its spirit and scope.

Claims (45)

CLAIMS:

1. A polyurethane comprising a reaction product of:
a first component comprising one or more polyols having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range of 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and a second component comprising a primary aliphatic isocyanate, wherein the first component and second component together are solvent free.

2. A polyurethane as recited in claim 1, wherein said catalyst comprises a tin-based catalyst.

3. A polyurethane as recited in claim 2, wherein said tin-based catalyst is selected from the group consisting of dibutyltin diacetate, dibutyltin dilaurate, dibutyltin diacetylacetonate, dibutyltin dimercaptide, dibutyltin dioctoate, dibutyltin dimaleate, dibutyltin acetonylacetonate, and dibutyltin oxide.

4. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said first component comprises at least 200 ppm of said catalyst.

5. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said one or more polyols and said one or more diols are selected from the group consisting of polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polyethers and combinations thereof.

6. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said one or more polyols comprise polyester.

7. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said one or more polyols comprise a combination of at least two polymers selected from the group consisting of polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, and polyethers.

8. A polyurethane as recited in claim 7, wherein said combination comprises polyester and up to 20 weight percent polyether.

9. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein greater than 20 weight percent of said polyols and optional diols comprises a polyester.

10. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein 20 weight percent or less of said reaction product comprises polyether segments.

11. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said first component comprises greater than weight percent of said one or more polyols.

12. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said one or more diols are present and comprise a short chain diol having an equivalent weight in the range from 30 to 400, and a polymeric diol having an equivalent weight in the range from 400 to 4000.

13. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said first component comprises up to 65 weight percent of said one or more diols.

14. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said primary aliphatic isocyanate is a polyisocyanate.

15. A polyurethane as recited in claim 14, wherein said polyisocyanate has a functionality of at least 3.

16. A polyurethane as recited in claim 14 or 15, wherein said polyisocyanate comprises at least 50 weight percent of said second component.

17. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein said polyurethane has at least 25 weight percent primary polyisocyanate crosslinking.

18. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said isocyanate is a blocked isocyanate.

19. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein said first component comprises one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, moisture scavengers, antifoaming agents, ultraviolet light absorbers, hindered amine free radical scavengers, leveling agents, decorative solids, and coloring agents.

20. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein said polyurethane is flexible.

21. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein said reaction product has a viscosity in the range from 400 cps to 5000 cps at 25° C.

22. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein said reaction product has a viscosity in the range from 600 cps to 4000 cps at 25° C.

23. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein said reaction product, upon curing, has a Shore A hardness of 94 or less at room temperature.

24. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein said polyurethane has a surface with a Hoffman scratch-hardness test result of 2 or less.

25. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein said polyurethane has a storage modulus of 1.0×10 8 pascals or less.

26. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein said polyurethane has a flexural modulus of 1.0×10 8 pascals or less.

27. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein said reaction product, upon exposure to moisture or carboxyl groups, exhibits a reduced amount of outgassing in the cured polyurethane.

28. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the first component and second component together have a NCO:OH ratio of 0.75 to 1.25.

29. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the first component and second component together comprise less than five weight percent water or organic solvent.

30. A polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the first component and second component together comprise less than one weight percent water or organic solvent.

31. A polyurethane with primary aliphatic isocyanate crosslinking, said polyurethane comprising a reaction product of a solvent-free admixture of one or more polyols, optionally one or more diols, a catalyst, and a primary aliphatic polyisocyanate, wherein 25% or more of the total crosslink density is contributed by the polyisocyanate, said polyurethane exhibiting at least one of the properties selected from the group consisting of a flexural modulus of 1.0×10 8 pascals or less, a storage modulus of 1.0×10 8 pascals or less, a Shore A hardness of less than 94, a Hoffman scratch-hardness test result of 2 or less, and a color shift, in accordance with heat aging test ASTM D2244-79, within 1 delta E.

32. A method of producing a polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 31, comprising:

reacting a first component and a second component, wherein said first component comprises a polyol having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally, one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range from 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and said second component comprises a primary aliphatic isocyanate, wherein said first and second components are solvent free.

33. A method as recited in claim 32, further comprising:

curing a reaction product of the first component and the second component.

34. An article comprising:

a) a substrate selected from polymeric material, wood, fabric, reinforced polymers, metal, reflective sheeting, and combinations thereof, wherein the polymeric material or the polymer of the reinforced polymer comprises a polyvinyl chloride, polyester, acrylic polymer, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyethylene acrylic acid copolymer, or polyvinyl acetate; and b) a polyurethane applied as a protective layer on a first surface of said substrate, said polyurethane comprising the polyurethane as recited in any one of claims 1 to 31.

35. An article as recited in claim 34, further comprising indicia applied onto the first surface of said substrate and covered by said polyurethane.

36. An article as recited in claim 35, wherein said indicia is three dimensional.

37. An article as recited in claim 36, wherein said three dimensional indicia comprises a cured polyurethane body having a mounting surface, a tie layer bonded to the mounting surface, and an adhesive body adhered to the tie layer.

38. An article as recited in any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein said polyurethane layer covers all exposed surfaces of the first surface of said substrate and the indicia.

39. An article as recited in claim 34, wherein said substrate is a base substrate and one or more secondary articles are applied over said base substrate, each of said one or more secondary articles comprising an adhesive attachment system, a substrate, and indicia.

40. An article as recited in claim 39, wherein said base substrate comprises indicia and said one or more secondary articles are applied over the indicia of said base substrate.

41. An article as recited in claim 39 or 40, wherein said one or more secondary articles comprise three dimensional articles.

42. An article comprising:

a substrate comprising a first surface, said substrate selected from polymeric material, wood, fabric, reinforced polymers, metal, reflective sheeting, and combinations thereof, wherein the polymeric material or the polymer of the reinforced polymer comprises a polyvinyl chloride, polyester, acrylic polymer, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyethylene acrylic acid copolymer, or polyvinyl acetate;

indicia on at least a portion of the first surface of the substrate; and a polyurethane applied as a protective layer over the indicia and any exposed portions of the first surface of said substrate, wherein the polyurethane is a reaction product of:

a first component comprising one or more polyols having an equivalent weight in the range from 28 to 3000, optionally one or more diols having an equivalent weight in the range from 30 to 4000, and a catalyst; and a second component comprising at least 50 weight percent of a primary polyisocyanate having a functionality of at least three, and wherein the first and second components together are solvent free;

wherein the first and second components form a solvent-free admixture having an NCO:OH ratio of 0.75 to 1.25.

43. An article as recited in any one of claims 34 to 42, wherein said polyurethane protective layer has a curved outer surface.

44. The article of any one of claims 34 to 43, wherein at least a portion of the substrate is visible through the polyurethane protective layer.

45. An article as recited in any one of claims 34 to 44, further comprising an adhesive layer on a second surface of said substrate.