Polyurethane materials were first developed during World War II as an alternative to natural rubber and today have found their way into thousands of applications in homes and businesses throughout the world. Polyurethanes describe a class of materials valued by consumers for their high performance and durability. Polyurethane foam used in furniture, insulation, and bedding may be the most easily recognizable product. But polyurethane materials are also found in paints and coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomer fibers, and rubberized products, such as conveyor belt rollers.