Applications of one-component moisture-curing polyurethanes in construction engineering: A comprehensive review

One-component moisture-curable polyurethane (PU) is a class of reactive polymeric materials that complete the curing process upon exposure to ambient moisture. Owing to this intrinsic curing mechanism, it has been widely used in building sealing, waterproofing and corrosion protection, structural reinforcement, and grouting for underground engineering. In recent years, research on this system has increasingly focused on improving mechanical performance and long-term service stability through molecular formulation design and network structure optimization. Specifically, regulating crosslink density and the degree of microphase separation, introducing latent curing agents, incorporating nanofillers, and controlling curing pathways have all been regarded as effective modification strategies. Based on the above, this paper systematically reviews the chemical properties and curing reaction mechanisms of one-component moisture-cured polyurethanes. It focuses on analyzing the intrinsic relationship between structural design and performance enhancement in moisture-cured systems. Representative applications in the construction field are also discussed to evaluate the applicability and limitations of different formulation strategies. In addition, recent advances in durability, flame retardancy, self-healing behavior, intelligent responsive systems, and sustainable development are comprehensively reviewed. Finally, prospects are provided for the future development trends and potential research directions of such systems.