The effects of the molecular weight and structure of polycarbonatediols on the properties of waterborne polyurethanes

•Waterborne polyurethanes are synthesized from 4 different polycarbonatediols.•WPUs show different properties as molecular weight and structure of PCDL varies.•The emulsions with nanoparticles display excellent stability.•Polyurethanes have much better properties as molecular weight of PCDL increases.•Homopolymer-based polyurethanes have superior thermal and mechanical properties.