Polyurethane shoe material anti-yellowing agent improves the safety performance of working shoes

Date：2025-03-17 Categories：Our Projects

1. Introduction: Why do we need anti-yellowing agents?

In industrial production and daily life, work shoes are not only tools to protect your feet, but also an important barrier to safety protection. However, have you noticed that many working shoes experience a troubling phenomenon after long use – the gradual yellowing of the upper or sole of the shoe? This phenomenon not only affects the beauty, but may also weaken the performance of the shoe material, thereby reducing its protective effect. So, what exactly caused this problem? The answer lies in the topic we are going to discuss today – the yellowing phenomenon and its solutions in polyurethane shoes.

Polyurethane (PU) is a polymer material widely used in the shoemaking industry. It is highly favored for its excellent elasticity, wear resistance and comfort. However, when polyurethane is exposed to environments such as ultraviolet rays, oxygen, or high temperatures, its molecular structure may undergo chemical changes, resulting in yellow spots on the surface of the material or overall yellowing. This yellowing phenomenon not only affects the appearance of the product, but also causes a decline in material performance, which in turn affects the safety and service life of working shoes.

To meet this challenge, scientists have developed a special additive – an anti-yellowing agent. Anti-yellowing agents can effectively inhibit the oxidation reaction and photodegradation process of polyurethane materials during use, thereby delaying or even preventing the occurrence of yellowing. By adding an appropriate amount of anti-yellowing agent to the polyurethane shoe material, it can not only maintain the original aesthetics of the shoe material, but also ensure the stability of its physical properties, thereby improving the overall safety performance of working shoes.

This article will conduct in-depth discussion on the working principle, types and applications of anti-yellowing agents, and analyze its specific role in improving the safety performance of working shoes based on actual cases. At the same time, we will refer to relevant domestic and foreign literature to present you with a comprehensive and detailed perspective. Whether you are a professional in the shoemaking industry or an average reader interested in materials science, this article will provide you with valuable insights and inspiration.

2. Characteristics and limitations of polyurethane shoes

2.1 Advantages of polyurethane shoes

Polyurethane (PU) is a high-performance synthetic material, since its introduction, has won wide applications for its unique physical and chemical properties. In the shoemaking industry, polyurethane shoes stand out with the following significant advantages:

Excellent elasticity and softness: Polyurethane has excellent rebound properties, which allows the sole made from it to provide good shock absorption. Whether it is long standing or high-intensity exercise, the wearer can feel a comfortable feeling of foot.
Excellent wear resistance: The wear resistance of polyurethane materials far exceeds that of traditional rubber and other plastic materials. This means that even in harsh working environments, such as construction sitesOr in the factory workshop, polyurethane soles can withstand the test of frequent friction and impact, extending the service life of the shoes.
Lightweight and durable: Polyurethane is lighter than other sole materials, but at the same time maintains extremely high strength and toughness. This lightweight design not only reduces the burden on the user, but also makes the shoes easier to carry and maintain.
Environmental and Recyclable: With the global emphasis on sustainable development, polyurethane materials have attracted much attention due to their recyclability and low environmental impact. Many modern polyurethane products adopt environmentally friendly formulas, reducing the emission of harmful substances, in line with the trend of green manufacturing.

2.2 Yellowing phenomenon and its causes

Although polyurethane shoes have many advantages, in actual use, the problem of yellowing becomes a major hidden danger. Yellowing usually occurs when the color of the sole or upper gradually changes from the original light color to yellow or brown, and in severe cases it may even affect the physical properties of the material. The causes of this phenomenon are complex and diverse, mainly including the following aspects:

Ultraviolet irradiation: When polyurethane materials are exposed to sunlight for a long time, ultraviolet irradiation will trigger molecular chain breakage and cross-linking reactions inside the material, resulting in color changes. This photodegradation process not only changes the appearance, but also may reduce the flexibility and strength of the material.
Oxygen Oxidation: Oxygen in the air reacts with certain active groups in polyurethane molecules to form peroxides or other unstable compounds. These compounds further decompose and form colored substances, which eventually leads to the occurrence of yellowing.
Influence of high temperature environment: Under high temperature conditions, the molecular structure of polyurethane materials is more susceptible to damage. For example, during drying, vulcanization, or other high-temperature processing, yellowing may accelerate if the temperature is not controlled properly.
Erosion of Chemical Substances: Some industrial chemicals, such as acids, alkalis or solvents, may also cause corrosion to polyurethane materials, causing yellowing. This is especially common in industrial environments, as working shoes often require exposure to various chemical reagents.

2.3 Effect of yellowing on shoe material performance

Yellowing phenomenon is not only a problem of appearance, it will also have a profound impact on the physical properties of polyurethane shoes. The following are several main aspects:

Mechanical performance deteriorates: Yellowing is usually accompanied by changes in the internal structure of the material, which may lead to a significant reduction in the tensile strength, tear strength and wear resistance of the shoe material. For work shoes that require heavy pressure or vigorous exercise, this performance degradation undoubtedly increases safety risks.
Weakened anti-aging ability: Yellowing is often a sign of material aging. Once yellowing begins, the anti-aging ability of the shoe material will rapidly decrease, thereby shortening its service life.
User experience impaired: For consumers, yellowing not only affects the visual aesthetics of the shoes, but may also bring psychological discomfort. Just imagine, a pair of originally flawless work shoes gradually become dull, which will undoubtedly cause users to question their quality.

To sum up, although polyurethane shoes have many unique advantages, the existence of yellowing problems limits its wider application. To solve this problem, scientists have developed a variety of anti-yellowing technologies, among which the application of anti-yellowing agents is particularly critical. Next, we will discuss in detail the types, mechanism of action of anti-yellowing agents and how to choose suitable anti-yellowing agents.

3. Classification and mechanism of anti-yellowing agents

3.1 Definition and importance of anti-yellowing agents

Anti-yellowing agent is a class of chemical additives specially used to prevent or delay the yellowing of polymer materials. They effectively protect the physical properties and appearance quality of the material by inhibiting the oxidation reaction and photodegradation process inside the material. In the field of polyurethane shoes, the role of anti-yellowing agent is particularly important because it can not only improve the durability of the shoes, but also enhance its safety, making it more suitable for complex industrial environments.

Depending on the mechanism of action, anti-yellowing agents can be divided into the following categories: free radical capture type, ultraviolet absorption type and antioxidant type. Each type of anti-yellowing agent has its unique functional characteristics and scope of application. Next, we will introduce these categories and their specific functions one by one.

3.2 Free radical capture anti-yellowing agent

The main function of the radical capture anti-yellowing agent is to capture free radicals generated inside the material, thereby preventing the chain reaction it triggers. Free radicals are highly active chemical species that are able to separate from polyurethane molecules under ultraviolet irradiation or high temperatures and further trigger material degradation and yellowing.

Mechanism of Action: Free radical capture anti-yellowing agents neutralize free radicals by providing electrons, thereby converting them into stable compounds. This process is similar to putting a pair of “handcuffs” on the “restless” free radicals, preventing it from continuing to destroy the molecular structure.
Typical Representative: Commonly common in this type of anti-yellowing agent include amine compounds and phenolic compounds. For example, benzophenone derivatives and hydroxyacetophenone compounds are both highly efficient free radical capture agents.
Advantages and limitations: Free radical capture anti-yellowing agents have the characteristics of rapid response and high efficiency and stability, and are especially suitable for occasions where immediate protection is required. However, their efficacy may gradually fade over time and therefore, it is often necessary to use with other types of anti-yellowing agents for optimal results.

3.3 UV absorption anti-yellowing agent

UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agent focuses on solving the problem of yellowing caused by ultraviolet rays. They avoid direct damage to polyurethane materials by absorbing UV energy and converting it into thermal energy.

Mechanism of action: UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agents contain specific chemical groups that can absorb ultraviolet rays with wavelengths ranging from 290 to 400 nanometers. Once UV energy is absorbed, these anti-yellowing agents quickly dissipate the energy in the form of heat, thus protecting the material from photodegradation.
Typical Representation: Common UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agents include benzotriazole compounds and salicylate compounds. For example, 2-(2′-hydroxy-5′-methylphenyl)benzotriazole is a widely used UV absorber.
Advantages and limitations: UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agents are outstanding in preventing photoaging, and are especially suitable for outdoor use. However, their effectiveness may be limited by coating thickness and dispersion uniformity, so precise control of the amount of addition and distribution is required in practical applications.

3.4 Antioxidant Anti-yellowing Agent

Antioxidation-type anti-yellowing agents are mainly used to resist the oxidation of oxygen on polyurethane materials. They reduce the formation of oxidation products by interrupting the oxidation reaction chain, thereby delaying the occurrence of yellowing.

Mechanism of action: Antioxidant anti-yellowing agents usually contain two ingredients: primary antioxidant and auxiliary antioxidant. The primary antioxidant is responsible for capturing the peroxygen radicals generated during the oxidation process, while the secondary antioxidant helps decompose hydroperoxides to prevent further reactions.
Typical Representatives: Phenol compounds and amine compounds are commonly used ingredients in antioxidant anti-yellowing agents. For example, four [β-(3,5-2 uncleButyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid]pentaerythritol ester (trade name Irganox 1010) is a highly effective antioxidant.
Advantages and limitations: Antioxidant anti-yellowing agents can significantly extend the service life of the material, especially in high temperature environments. However, they are relatively expensive and may in some cases affect the transparency or color of the material.

3.5 Comprehensive application and synergistic effect

In practical applications, a single type of anti-yellowing agent often struggles to meet all needs. Therefore, scientists usually adopt a combination of multiple anti-yellowing agents to achieve better protection. For example, free radical capture anti-yellowing agents can be used together with ultraviolet absorption anti-yellowing agents, which can not only prevent photoaging but also inhibit oxidation reactions; while anti-oxidation anti-yellowing agents can be used as supplements to further enhance the overall stability of the material.

In addition, there may be a synergistic effect between different types of anti-yellowing agents, i.e., their combined effect is better than the sum used alone. This synergistic effect stems from the complementary action of various types of anti-yellowing agents on material protection at different stages. For example, UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agents can prevent UV rays from being damaged first, while anti-oxidant anti-yellowing agents can continue to work in the subsequent process to ensure that the material maintains excellent performance throughout its life cycle.

By reasonably selecting and matching different types of anti-yellowing agents, manufacturers can formulate excellent protection strategies for specific application scenarios, thereby maximizing the safety performance and service life of polyurethane shoes.

IV. Selection and optimization of anti-yellowing agents

4.1 How to choose the right anti-yellowing agent

Selecting the right anti-yellowing agent is a key step in ensuring the stable performance of polyurethane shoes. This process requires a comprehensive consideration of a variety of factors, including the specific purpose of the shoe material, working environment conditions and cost-effectiveness ratio. Here are some important selection criteria:

Environmental Adaptation: First, it is necessary to clarify the environment in which the shoe material will be used. If it is an outdoor working shoe, anti-yellowing agents with strong UV absorption capacity should be given priority; while for indoor or low-temperature environments, products that focus on antioxidant properties can be selected.
Material Compatibility: Different anti-yellowing agents may differ in compatibility with polyurethane matrix. Ideal anti-yellowing agents should be able to be evenly dispersed in the material without causing any adverse side effects such as bubbles, cracks or discoloration.
Cost and Effect Balance: Although high-performance anti-yellowing agents are usually expensive, they are overly pursuing high-end products.May lead to unnecessary cost increase. Therefore, we should find cost-effective solutions while ensuring basic protective effects.

4.2 Optimization strategies in practical applications

After the candidate anti-yellowing agent is determined, a series of experiments and tests are required to verify its actual effect and make necessary optimization and adjustments. The following are some commonly used optimization methods and techniques:

4.2.1 Optimization of the amount of addition

The amount of the anti-yellowing agent added directly affects its protective effect and economicality. Generally speaking, excessive additions not only increase costs, but may also lead to other properties of the material, such as hardness and transparency. On the contrary, insufficient amount of addition cannot adequately protect the shoe material from yellowing. Therefore, it is crucial to find a good addition ratio.

Type	Recommended addition (wt%)	Remarks
Radical Capture Type	0.1 – 0.5	Adjust to life expectancy and use environment
UV Absorption Type	0.2 – 1.0	Add to be appropriately added when using outdoor
Antioxidation type	0.3 – 0.8	It is recommended to increase the amount of addition in high temperature environments

4.2.2 Improvements in dispersion technology

In order to ensure uniform distribution of anti-yellowing agents in the polyurethane matrix, advanced dispersion techniques and processes can be used. For example, the anti-yellowing agent particles can be made smaller by using ultrasonic treatment or high-speed stirring equipment, thereby improving their dispersion efficiency and protective effect.

4.2.3 Combined with multi-layer protection system

In addition to the single anti-yellowing agent addition, a multi-level protection system can also be constructed. For example, a functional coating containing UV absorber is applied to the surface of the shoe material, while an antioxidant-type anti-yellowing agent is mixed inside. This composite protection method can significantly improve the overall anti-yellowing ability.

4.3 Case analysis: Anti-yellowing solution for a well-known brand of work shoes

Taking the outdoor working shoes of an internationally renowned brand as an example, the brand has adopted the following anti-yellowing agent combination scheme in its polyurethane soles:

Free radical capture anti-yellowing agent: Use benzophenone derivatives, with an added amount of 0.3 wt%, used to capture ultravioletLine-induced free radicals.
Ultraviolet absorption anti-yellowing agent: Use 2-(2′-hydroxy-5′-methylphenyl)benzotriazole, with an addition amount of 0.5 wt%, specifically absorbing ultraviolet energy.
Antioxidation-type anti-yellowing agent: Use Irganox 1010, with an added amount of 0.4 wt%, to enhance antioxidant properties.

After field testing, the solution successfully reduced the yellowing index of the sole by more than 60%, while maintaining the original physical performance and comfort of the shoe material. This successful case fully demonstrates the importance of rational selection and optimization of anti-yellowing agents.

From the above analysis, it can be seen that selecting and optimizing anti-yellowing agents is not a simple task, but a systematic engineering that combines theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Only through scientific methods and rigorous attitude can we truly achieve the improvement of the performance of polyurethane shoes.

5. Effect of anti-yellowing agent on the safety performance of working shoes

5.1 Improve the physical properties of shoe materials

Anti-yellowing agent plays an irreplaceable role in improving the physical properties of polyurethane shoes. By effectively inhibiting the oxidation reaction and photodegradation process, the anti-yellowing agent can significantly delay the aging rate of shoe materials, thereby maintaining its original strength, toughness and wear resistance. This is especially important for working shoes, because these properties are directly related to the protective ability and service life of the shoes.

Maintenance of Tensile Strength: Yellowing phenomenon is often accompanied by changes in the internal structure of the material, which may lead to a significant decrease in the tensile strength of the shoe material. The anti-yellowing agent stabilizes the molecular chain structure to ensure that the shoe material can maintain a high tensile strength after long-term use, thereby better resisting external pressure and impact.
Enhanced wear resistance: In industrial environments, work shoes often need to face rough ground and frequent friction. The presence of anti-yellowing agents can reduce the wear level of material surfaces, extend the service life of shoes, and improve their adaptability in complex environments.

5.2 Improve the anti-aging ability of shoe materials

In addition to improving physical properties, anti-yellowing agents also greatly enhance the anti-aging ability of polyurethane shoes. Aging is the fundamental cause of material performance degradation, and anti-yellowing agents fundamentally solve this problem by blocking key links in the aging process.

Delaying photoaging: UV rays are one of the primary factors that cause photoaging of materials. UV-absorbing anti-yellowing agent can effectively absorb UV energy and convert it into harmless thermal energy.Release, thereby avoiding direct damage to the material by ultraviolet rays. This protection mechanism allows the shoe material to remain in good condition when exposed to sunlight for a long time.
Inhibit thermal aging: In high temperature environments, shoe materials are prone to thermal degradation, resulting in degradation of performance. Antioxidant anti-yellowing agents interrupt the thermal degradation reaction chain by capturing the free radicals generated during the oxidation process, thereby significantly delaying the occurrence of thermal aging. This effect is particularly important for shoes that need to work under high temperature conditions.

5.3 Enhance the safety of shoe materials

Finally, the application of anti-yellowing agent not only improves the physical properties and anti-aging capabilities of the shoe material, but also indirectly enhances the overall safety of working shoes. In an industrial environment, the safety performance of shoes is directly related to the physical health and work efficiency of workers. By using anti-yellowing agents, the reliability of the shoe material under various extreme conditions can be ensured, thereby providing users with more comprehensive protection.

Stable anti-slip performance: Yellowing phenomenon may cause the sole surface to become smooth, thereby reducing its anti-slip performance. The anti-yellowing agent ensures its grip in special environments such as slippery or oily grounds by maintaining the original characteristics of the sole material, thereby reducing the probability of slip accidents.
Protecting puncture resistance: For working shoes that require puncture resistance, the strength and toughness of the sole material are crucial. Anti-yellowing agents delay the aging process of the material, ensuring that the sole can effectively resist the penetration of sharp objects after long-term use, thereby protecting workers from harm.

5.4 Improvement of user experience

In addition to functional improvements, the application of anti-yellowing agents has also brought significant user experience improvements. Maintaining the aesthetics and consistency of the shoe material can not only make users feel happy, but also enhance their trust in product quality.

Long-lasting and bright appearance: Anti-yellowing agent prevents color changes, so that the shoe material can still maintain its original bright colors and luster after long-term use, thereby enhancing the overall visual effect.
Reduce replacement frequency: Because anti-yellowing agents extend the service life of the shoe material, users can use the same pair of shoes for longer, thereby reducing the inconvenience and cost of frequent replacements.

To sum up, anti-yellowing agents have many roles in improving the safety performance of working shoes. Whether from the perspective of physical properties, anti-aging ability or user experience, the application of anti-yellowing agents can bring substantial changes to working shoes.Good to make it more suitable for complex and changeable industrial environments.

6. Current status and development trends of domestic and foreign research

6.1 Current status of domestic and foreign research

In recent years, with the widespread application of polyurethane materials in various fields, the research on anti-yellowing agents has become an important topic in the field of polymer science. Scholars at home and abroad have conducted a lot of research on the types, mechanisms of action and their effects in actual applications, and have achieved a series of important results.

6.1.1 Domestic research progress

In China, scientific researchers mainly focus on the synthesis, modification and application technology of anti-yellowing agents. For example, a study from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences shows that by introducing specific functional groups, the absorption efficiency and stability of ultraviolet absorption anti-yellowing agents can be significantly improved. In addition, the School of Materials of Tsinghua University has developed a new composite anti-yellowing agent that combines the dual functions of free radical capture and antioxidant, which can provide comprehensive protection in a variety of environments.

At the same time, domestic companies are also actively investing in the research and development of anti-yellowing agents. For example, a well-known enterprise cooperated with a university to develop an anti-yellowing agent based on nanotechnology. Its particle size is only one-tenth of that of traditional products and can be dispersed more evenly in the polyurethane matrix, thereby greatly improving the protective effect.

6.1.2 Foreign research trends

Foreign research in the field of anti-yellowing agents started early and the technical level was relatively mature. Research institutions and enterprises in European and American countries have focused on exploring the molecular design and multifunctionalization of anti-yellowing agents. For example, DuPont, the United States, launched an anti-yellowing agent called “Zerofade”, which adopts a unique molecular structure design that can provide long-term protection under the combined action of various factors such as ultraviolet rays, oxygen and high temperatures.

At the same time, Japan’s Mitsubishi Chemical Company has made breakthrough progress in UV absorption anti-yellowing agents. A new benzotriazole compound they developed not only has higher absorption efficiency but also has little effect on the transparency of the material, making it ideal for use in transparent or translucent polyurethane products.

6.2 Development trends

With the advancement of science and technology and changes in social needs, the research on anti-yellowing agents is developing in the following directions:

6.2.1 Functional complexity

The future anti-yellowing agents will pay more attention to the complexity of functions, that is, by integrating multiple protection mechanisms, the comprehensive protection of the materials will be achieved. For example, developing a composite anti-yellowing agent with both UV absorption, antioxidant and antibacterial functions can meet the needs of more application scenarios.

6.2.2 Environmental protection and sustainability

With the increasing global attention to environmental protection, the development of green and environmentally friendly anti-yellowing agents has become an inevitable trend. Researchers are exploring the use of raw materials from naturally sourced sources to replace traditional chemical synthesis products to reduceNegative impact on the environment. For example, using plant extracts as the basic ingredient for anti-yellowing agents not only ensures the protective effect but also achieves sustainable utilization of resources.

6.2.3 Intelligent Responsive Anti-Yellowing Agent

Intelligent responsive anti-yellowing agent is another important development direction. This type of product can automatically adjust its protective performance according to changes in the external environment. For example, some anti-yellowing agents automatically enhance their absorption capacity when they detect an increase in UV intensity; while in the case of weak light, energy consumption is reduced, thereby achieving optimal utilization of resources.

6.2.4 Refinement and customization

With the diversification of market demand, the refinement and customization of anti-yellowing agents will become the future development trend. By precisely regulating the molecular structure and performance parameters of anti-yellowing agents, tailor-made solutions can be provided for different industries and application scenarios. For example, anti-yellowing agents developed for the aerospace field need to have extremely high temperature resistance, while products designed for the medical industry must meet strict hygiene standards.

6.3 Outlook and Challenges

Although significant progress has been made in the research on anti-yellowing agents, there are still some challenges. For example, how to reduce production costs while ensuring protective effects, how to achieve large-scale industrial production, and how to further improve the stability and long-term effectiveness of anti-yellowing agents all require continuous efforts to solve the problems of scientific researchers.

Looking forward, with the continuous emergence of new materials and new technologies, the research on anti-yellowing agents will surely usher in a broader development space. Through interdisciplinary cooperation and innovation, we believe that we can develop more efficient, environmentally friendly and economical anti-yellowing agent products, making greater contributions to the safety performance of polyurethane shoes and other polymer materials.

7. Summary and Outlook

7.1 Summary

Through the in-depth discussion in this article, we can clearly see the important role of anti-yellowing agents in improving the safety performance of polyurethane shoes. From the initial analysis of yellowing phenomenon, to the classification and mechanism of anti-yellowing agents, to the selection and optimization strategies in actual applications, each link reflects the strong driving force of science and technology in the field of material protection. In particular, the outstanding performance of anti-yellowing agents in delaying material aging, maintaining physical properties and enhancing overall safety makes it an indispensable part of the modern shoemaking industry.

7.2 Outlook

Looking forward, the research and application of anti-yellowing agents will continue to move forward in the direction of functional complexity, environmental protection, sustainability and intelligence. With the continuous breakthroughs in new material technology, we can expect more efficient, economical and environmentally friendly anti-yellowing agent products to be released. These new products will not only further improve the safety performance of polyurethane shoes, but will also push the entire polymer materials industry to a higher level.

At the same time, we also call on more companies and scientific research institutions to participate in the research on anti-yellowing agents., jointly explore the unknown possibilities in this field. Only through continuous innovation and practice can we truly achieve the perfect integration of materials science and human life and create greater value for society.

As an old proverb says, “Only you can go steadily and far.” Through in-depth research and application of anti-yellowing agents, we not only provide a solid guarantee for the safety performance of polyurethane shoes, but also lay a solid foundation for the future development of materials science. Let us work together to welcome a better tomorrow!

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