Spandex vs. Polyurethane — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 4, 2024
Spandex is highly stretchable and recovers its shape well, ideal for activewear, while polyurethane is versatile, used in both soft forms like foams and hard plastics, with applications ranging from upholstery to electronic devices.
Difference Between Spandex and Polyurethane
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Spandex, known for its exceptional elasticity, is a synthetic fiber that can stretch up to five times its original length and return to its original state. This makes it a popular choice for activewear, swimwear, and other garments where flexibility and comfort are desired. On the other hand, polyurethane is a polymorphic material, meaning it can be tailored to be either soft and flexible or hard and rigid. This versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of products, from soft foam seating to tough, durable coatings and adhesives.
Spandex fibers are lightweight and resistant to sweat and body oils, making them ideal for tight-fitting clothes that require stretchability without losing form. Whereas polyurethane's properties can be adjusted during manufacturing, leading to its presence in both flexible forms like foams, used in mattresses and cushions, and in more solid forms like the outer cases of electronic devices or as protective coatings.
One of the main advantages of spandex is its durability and resistance to detergents and chemicals, ensuring the longevity of garments made from it. On the other hand, polyurethane's chemical composition can be modified to enhance specific properties such as hardness, density, and resistance to heat and chemicals, making it suitable for a broader range of applications, including automotive parts and insulation materials.
Spandex is often blended with other materials such as cotton or polyester to combine stretchability with the breathability and comfort of natural fibers. This contrasts with polyurethane, which can be combined with other materials to enhance its physical properties, such as adding glass fibers to increase its strength or using plasticizers to make it more flexible.
Despite its widespread use in clothing, spandex offers limited breathability compared to natural fibers, which can lead to discomfort in hot environments. Polyurethane, with its broad range of applications, can be engineered to be breathable when used in products like synthetic leather, providing a comfortable alternative to natural leather with similar aesthetic appeal.
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Comparison Chart
Elasticity
Extremely high, can stretch up to 5 times its length
Varies, can be engineered for specific elasticity needs
Applications
Mainly in clothing such as activewear, swimwear
Broad, including foams, plastics, coatings, adhesives
Durability
High resistance to body oils, chemicals, and detergents
Adjustable, can be made very durable depending on formulation
Breathability
Lower compared to natural fibers
Can be engineered to be breathable in applications like synthetic leather
Versatility
Used primarily for stretchability in textiles
Extremely versatile, used in soft and hard forms for numerous applications
Compare with Definitions
Spandex
A synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity.
The spandex leggings retained their shape even after intense yoga sessions.
Polyurethane
A versatile polymer that can be both soft and hard.
The polyurethane foam in the mattress provided excellent support and comfort.
Spandex
Highly stretchable and durable.
Her spandex swimsuit has lasted several summers without losing elasticity.
Polyurethane
Offers a broad range of applications due to its adaptability.
Polyurethane insulation in homes offers superior heat retention.
Spandex
Commonly blended with other fibers for enhanced performance.
The cotton-spandex blend t-shirts offer both comfort and flexibility.
Polyurethane
Used in a wide range of products from foams to hard plastics.
The durable polyurethane case protected the phone from drops.
Spandex
Ideal for activewear and garments requiring freedom of movement.
Spandex cycling shorts provide comfort and support over long distances.
Polyurethane
A common material for synthetic leathers and coatings.
The synthetic leather jacket made of polyurethane was both stylish and vegan-friendly.
Spandex
Resistant to sweat and body oils.
Spandex workout clothes are popular for their ability to withstand rigorous exercise routines.
Polyurethane
Can be engineered for specific properties like hardness and density.
Polyurethane car parts are customized for durability and resistance.
Spandex
Spandex, Lycra, or elastane is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is a polyether-polyurea copolymer that was invented in 1958 by chemist Joseph Shivers at DuPont's Benger Laboratory in Waynesboro, Virginia, US.The generic name "spandex", which is an anagram of the word "expands", is the preferred name in North America.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane (often abbreviated PUR and PU) is a polymer composed of organic units joined by carbamate (urethane) links. In contrast to other common polymers such as polyethylene and polystyrene, polyurethane is produced from a wide range of starting materials (monomers) and is therefore a class of polymers, rather than a distinct compound.
Spandex
A type of stretchy polyurethane fabric
Gold spandex leggings
Polyurethane
A synthetic resin in which the polymer units are linked by urethane groups, used chiefly as constituents of paints, varnishes, adhesives, and foams
Five coats of polyurethane
Polyurethanes serve a variety of uses
Spandex
A synthetic fiber or fabric made from a polymer containing polyurethane, used in the manufacture of elastic clothing.
Polyurethane
Coat with polyurethane paint or varnish
The sanded and polyurethaned floorboards
Spandex
Of or relating to spandex or its elastic qualities.
Polyurethane
Any of various thermoplastic isocyanate polymers, widely varying in flexibility, used in tough chemical-resistant coatings, adhesives, and foams.
Spandex
A synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity.
Polyurethane
(organic chemistry) Any of various polymeric resins containing urethane links; used in very many industrial and domestic applications.
Spandex
Clothing made from such material.
Polyurethane
Any polymer containing [-NH.CO.O-] linkages; such polymers are much used as the basis of light but rigid foams for packaging (polyurethane foam) and for hard coatings, as on floors.
Spandex
An elastic textile material, used for clothing
Polyurethane
Any of various polymers containing the urethane radical; a wide variety of synthetic forms are made and used as adhesives or plastics or paints or rubber
Spandex
An elastic synthetic fabric
Common Curiosities
What is spandex made of?
Spandex is made from a long chain polymer called polyurethane, combined with other chemicals that provide its exceptional elasticity.
Is spandex breathable?
Spandex is less breathable than natural fibers, making it sometimes uncomfortable in hot weather or during intense physical activity.
Why is polyurethane used in furniture?
Polyurethane foam is used in furniture for its durability, comfort, and ability to be shaped into various forms.
Can spandex cause skin irritation?
While rare, some people may experience skin irritation from spandex, especially if the garment is very tight or worn in hot conditions.
How is polyurethane applied as a coating?
Polyurethane coatings can be applied through spraying, brushing, or rolling, depending on the desired thickness and finish.
Is spandex eco-friendly?
Spandex is not considered eco-friendly due to its synthetic nature and the chemicals involved in its production, which can be harmful to the environment.
Can polyurethane be recycled?
Recycling polyurethane is challenging due to its diverse chemical structures, but certain types of polyurethane can be repurposed or chemically recycled.
What makes polyurethane different from other plastics?
Polyurethane's versatility allows it to range from soft, flexible forms to hard, durable plastics, setting it apart from other plastics with more limited applications.
How long does spandex last?
The lifespan of spandex depends on its use and care, but it is generally durable and maintains its elasticity over time with proper maintenance.
Can polyurethane be used in outdoor applications?
Yes, polyurethane is often used in outdoor applications due to its durability and resistance to weather conditions.
Are there biodegradable polyurethanes?
Yes, there are developments in biodegradable polyurethanes, designed to break down more easily and reduce environmental impact.
What are the environmental impacts of polyurethane production?
Polyurethane production involves chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, though efforts are being made to develop more eco-friendly alternatives.
Can spandex be used in all types of clothing?
While spandex is versatile, its primary use is in clothing that requires stretchability, such as activewear, swimwear, and body-hugging garments.
How should garments containing spandex be cared for?
Garments containing spandex should be washed in cool water and air-dried to maintain their elasticity and shape.
Is there a difference in the cost between spandex and polyurethane products?
The cost varies widely depending on the product and its application, with spandex generally being more expensive in textiles and polyurethane in industrial applications.
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Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
