When it comes to polyurethane, there are two different types: aliphatic and aromatic. While they both serve the same purpose—to make a surface harder—they each have their own unique properties. If you are in need of a new coating for something like your deck or fence, then you might be wondering what these two types really mean when it comes to application, durability and cost. Here is a look at how these chemicals compare:

Aliphatic polyurethanes are easier to use and more environmentally safe than aromatic polyurethanes.

Aliphatic polyurethanes are less toxic than aromatic polyurethanes.

Aliphatic polyurethanes are less irritating to the skin than aromatic polyurethanes.

Aliphatic polyurethanes are easier to clean up after use, as they don’t require nearly as much rinsing or scrubbing as aromatic ones do (because of their lower molecular weight).

Aliphatic polyurethane finishes tend to be more environmentally friendly than aromatic finishes: they’re made from renewable resources like vegetable oil instead of petroleum products like benzene; they don’t contain solvents such as xylene; and they don’t require heat curing which saves energy and reduces air pollution in manufacturing plants

Aromatic polyurethanes are hardier, more durable, and better suited for outdoor use.

Aromatic polyurethanes are tougher and more durable than aliphatic polyurethanes. This means that they’re better suited for outdoor use, where they can take the weathering of UV light, water and chemicals. They’re also more resistant to abrasion–the process by which a material wears away due to friction with other materials or surfaces–which makes them less likely to wear down over time.

Aliphatic polyurethanes have a low VOC count while aromatic polyurethanes have a high VOC count.

Aliphatic polyurethanes have a low VOC count while aromatic polyurethanes have a high VOC count.

The abbreviation “VOC” stands for volatile organic compound, which are harmful to the environment and humans. VOCs are also harmful to humans because they can cause headaches, nausea and other health problems. If you’re exposed to too much of these chemicals over time it can lead to cancer.

Aliphatic polyurethanes tend not last as long as aromatic polyurethanes.

Aliphatic polyurethanes are more susceptible to UV damage than aromatic polyurethanes. They tend to yellow over time, especially if they’re not protected by a topcoat.

Aromatic polyurethanes are more resistant to UV damage and will not yellow as easily as aliphatic ones.

If you are looking for durability, go with an aromatic polyurethane, but if you are concerned about environmental impact, then go with an aliphatic one

If you are looking for durability, go with an aromatic polyurethane. However, if you are concerned about environmental impact and want to use a product that is safer for both your home and the planet, then go with an aliphatic one.

Aromatic polyurethanes have a low VOC count compared to their aliphatic counterparts. This means that they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air during application and curing time. However, this comes at the cost of durability; aromatic polyurethanes have lower water resistance than their aliphatic counterparts as well as less resistance to UV light damage (which means they’ll yellow faster).

Aliphatic polyurethanes on the other hand contain higher levels of solvents which make them more volatile–but also incredibly effective at sealing out moisture from wooden structures like decks or fences where there’s no need for added protection against UV rays because these surfaces don’t get much sunlight anyway!

If you are looking for durability, go with an aromatic polyurethane, but if you are concerned about environmental impact, then go with an aliphatic one.