As a polymer processing solvent, DMSO is used in several ways.
Membrane Manufacture: Ultrafiltration (UF) membranes are solvent-cast from DMSO, as are membranes used in fuel cell technology. Resins such as polysulfone (PS) are dissolved in DMSO, and then cast into porous membranes using an antisolvent, or humidity.
Carbon Fiber Technology: relies on use of DMSO as a processing solvent. DMSO is of great value in spinning polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers, a precursor to carbon fiber. Dimethyl sulfoxide is used both in the spinning dope and in the coagulation bath.
Polymer Dispersions: Polyurethanes synthesized in DMSO may be dispersed in water, similar to the use of other dipolar aprotic solvents in the manufacture of water-borne coatings. DMSO offers not only performance, but is a safer solvent than the alternatives DMF, NMP and others.
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