Urethane

Urethane is an organic compound with the chemical formula for urethane is C3H7NO2, which is also known as Ethyl Carbonate. It has a number of industrial uses including the synthesis of pharmaceuticals or in pesticides as a solubilizer or cosolvent. Urethane is main used as a sealer for protection of many products. When coated on wood, it can protect it from heat, excessive cold or moisture. Urethane can also be found in drinks such as wine and whiskey.

Chemical
In its liquid form, its boiling point ranges from 360F to 363F at 760 mm Hg. Its melting point ranges in a lower degree than its boiling point. It ranges from 118 to 122F.

Physical
Urethane does not have any color. Urethane tastes like salt, and also has a bit of a bitter flavor to it. At the temperature of 217F degrees, it changes from solid to vapor form. Urethane is also shock absorbing, which makes it one of the most used materials for making elevator and escalator tire treads. Urethane has a high load bearing capability, which makes it used for things like gun mounts, for the use of shock absorbent.

Occurrences In Food
In most alcoholic beverages during the mid-1980s, you can find traces of Urethane in it. Other food or drinks that were prepared using fermentation, contain Urethane. When these drinks go under high temperatures, they form the reaction of ethanol, which is used to make whiskey, brandy, and other distilled beverages.

Uses
Urethane can be used many different ways. In transportation, it can be used for making the wheels, the bumper, and things for the car that can absorb sound. Since the urethanes hardness ranges from 20A (soft as a rubber band) to 60D (hard as a golf ball), it can be used to make many things. Urethane can also be used underwater. Cables underwater are usually covered with urethane, because it prevents bacteria growth, and can also sustain deep under water pressures, and temperatures that the deeper parts of the ocean have.

Hazards
Urethane can be very hazardous. It is very toxic when swallowed, usually leading into an injury to the kidneys. Side effects along with the injury are vomiting and can also induce a coma or hemorrhages. As of today, scientists are still not sure if it has a long time effect on the reproductive or growth (developmental) systems on humans. From studying rats, scientists found out that urethane can cause tumors from swallowing it, or even breathing it in.

Although urethane is not on the same danger level as Nicotine or Digoxin, you should still try your best to avoid any type of danger. Urethane is combustible, which means that when it is lit on fire, it gives off toxic gases. To prevent this from happening, you should keep it away from open flames. Urethane also starts to evaporate at the temperature of 20 Celsius (68F). This means that you should always keep it near a cooler temperature, because when in the air, it can be inhaled quickly and lead to nausea.

Video
A video of different types of molds that Urethane can make rjFdbhCjKPY