Polyols.

A polyol is an alcohol carrying multiple reactive hydroxyl (–OH) groups. In polyurethane production it forms one half of the core reaction, joining with an isocyanate to build the urethane polymer. The polyol you choose — its type, molecular weight, functionality and hydroxyl value — largely decides whether the finished product is a soft cushioning foam or a hard, load-bearing rigid panel.

Creston Chem supplies both major polyol families, sourced from audited producers and supplied with full technical documentation.

Polyether polyols

Polyether polyols are the most widely used class, especially for flexible foam. They are valued for excellent hydrolytic stability, low viscosity and easy processing.

• High resilience and comfort
• Low viscosity for smooth processing
• Strong compatibility with a range of isocyanates

Typical uses: furniture and mattress foam, automotive seating, sponges, and packaging foam.

Polyester polyols

Polyester polyols deliver higher rigidity, abrasion resistance and chemical resistance, making them well suited to demanding applications.

• Greater tensile strength and thermal resistance
• Excellent abrasion and chemical resistance
• Strong adhesion for coatings and bonding

Typical uses: rigid foam, shoe soles, coatings and adhesives, and flexible moulded foam.

Graft (polymer) and specialty polyols

For high-resilience and high-load-bearing foams, graft or polymer polyols raise hardness and load capacity. Bio-based options such as castor-oil-derived polyols are also available for more sustainable formulations.

How to choose a polyol

Three parameters drive most selection decisions:

• Hydroxyl (OH) value — indicates reactivity and influences crosslink density.
• Functionality — the number of reactive groups; higher functionality tends toward more rigid networks.
• Molecular weight — higher molecular weight polyols generally yield softer, more flexible products.

Not sure which grade fits your system? Our team can advise based on your target density, firmness and application. Pair it with the right isocyanate — TDI for flexible foam, MDI for rigid — and complete the formulation with catalysts and surfactants.

Packaging & storage

Polyols are supplied in drums, IBCs and ISO tanks. Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated conditions away from moisture, since polyols are hygroscopic and can absorb water that affects the reaction.