Waterborne anionomeric polyurethane-ureas from functionalized fluoropolyethers

A family of anionomeric segmented polyurethane–ureas made from dimethylol-terminated perfluoropolyethers (Mn _ 1000–2000), isophorone diisocyanate, dimethylol propionic acid, and ethylenediamine was obtained in form of stable aqueous dispersions. The dispersions were characterized by viscometry and dynamic laser light scattering. The main compositive parameters explored were the amount of COOH groups and the length of the fluorinated macromer. The new polyurethane–ureas were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis obtaining information on modulus, thermal transition, and phase segregation. Surface properties and chemical resistance were estimated through measurements of static contact angles and spot tests with different solvents. Although surface hydrophobicity was not affected by composition, water-sorption behavior was sensitive to the ionic character (COOH level) of the polymer. Diffusion and permeability coefficients of polymer films, having different carboxyl contents, were estimated.