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Introduction to Polyurethane

7th - 8th April 2027
Shropshire, UK
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Key course information

  • Course learning format: IN-PERSON COURSE
  • More course dates: See below or click 'Register'
  • Pricing: click 'Register' to preview
  • Course duration: Two Days 
  • Location: Shropshire, UK
  • Interactive learning face-to-face with expert tutors
  • Electronic course notes
  • Gain CPD Credits: Smithers training is IOM3 Quality Assured and counts towards professional development.

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Upcoming in-person course dates

Select a session when registering
7 - 8 April 2027

Course overview

This course provides a clear, accessible introduction to polyurethane (PU) chemistry and manufacturing. It explains how polyurethanes are formed, how additives are used to modify properties, and why these materials are so versatile across industries.

You’ll also gain insight into the structure of the polyurethane supply chain, understanding how formulation, process and application stages connect.

Designed for those with limited formal training, this course is ideal for anyone who needs a technical appreciation of polyurethane materials - whether supplying to or purchasing from PU manufacturers.

We also run an advanced course: A Practitioner's Approach to PU

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:
  • Understand the chemistry, structure and properties of key building blocks (polyols and isocyanates) and how to select them for specific applications.
  • Recognise the role and importance of additives in achieving the desired performance in polyurethane systems.
  • Gain confidence to engage in more informed technical discussions with clients, customers and colleagues.
  • Appreciate the main processing techniques, quality standards and market requirements for polyurethane products.
  • Develop awareness of chemical stewardship principles and emerging technologies for end-of-life polyurethane management.

Course content

Introduction
  • What is a polymer?
  • What are polyurethanes?
Polyurethane Products and Applications
  • An overview of this highly versatile polymer
Basic Science that Makes the Applications Work
  • Basic market information
  • Building blocks required to produce a wide range of products
  • An important overview of the (complex) chemistry involved
  • Introduction to raw material safety
Polymer Structures
Polyurethane Supply Chain
Quality Control Techniques
  • Explores quality control for measuring consistency, inspection of both incoming raw materials and outgoing finished products
  • Raw materials: polyols and isocyanates
  • Polyurethane finished articles
Processing of Polyurethane Materials
  • Key criteria, machines, selected applications
Application Examples
  • Polyurethane foams
  • Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants and Elastomers (CASE)
  • Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
Polyurethane and the Environment
  • Responsible care, end of life opportunities, renewable technology

Who should attend

This course is ideal for newcomers to the polyurethane (PU) industry or those with limited technical training who want to build a practical understanding of PU materials and processes.

It will be particularly valuable for:

  • Technicians and analysts – including processing, quality control, QA and EHS staff who need a solid grounding in PU manufacturing and materials.
  • Sales, marketing and purchasing professionals who want to improve confidence and communication with customers, suppliers and colleagues.
  • Suppliers to the PU industry – including raw material, equipment and machinery providers seeking a better appreciation of polyurethane systems.
  • PU systems end-users – such as foamers and extruders, production managers and engineers.
  • Professionals from other polymer sectors who want a clear introduction to the fundamentals of polyurethane technology.

Meet your expert tutor

Eileen Lancaster, Consultant

Eileen Lancaster – Consultant

With more than 40 years in the polyurethane industry, Eileen brings extensive technical and commercial experience from roles in manufacturing, R&D and technical service. Having worked with major global producers and systems houses including BASF, Dow and Huntsman, she now provides consultancy worldwide, advising on formulation, process optimisation and product development across a wide range of polyurethane applications.

What our delegates say about the course material

“Very useful overview, good concise lecture notes, very helpful for future.”
Bethany Turner (Apollo Chemicals)

Contact us or download a brochure

Reach out to the training team now - ask about this course or discuss your training goals.  
Sam Rogers

Sam Rogers

Training Product Manager - Materials Science and Engineering

Contact Sam

VIEW THE BROCHURE

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