September 2025 – Page 32

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 for the Production of High-Strength, High-Load-Bearing Polyurethane Wood Imitations

🔬 Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) Ether (DMDEE): The Secret Sauce Behind High-Performance Polyurethane Wood Imitations
By Dr. Felix Chen, Polymer Additive Enthusiast & Occasional Coffee Spiller

Let’s talk about a molecule that doesn’t make headlines at cocktail parties but deserves a standing ovation in the world of polyurethane foams — Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known by its snappy nickname: DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4). If polyurethane is the actor on stage, DMDEE is the stage manager whispering cues, making sure the show runs smoothly — and with impressive load-bearing strength, no less.

This little tertiary amine catalyst is a quiet powerhouse in the production of high-strength, high-load-bearing polyurethane wood imitations — materials that look like wood, feel like wood (sort of), but perform like superhero wood. Think of it as the Kevin Bacon of foam chemistry: six degrees of separation from every critical reaction.

🌲 Why Fake Wood? Because Real Wood is Overrated (Sometimes)

Before we dive into DMDEE’s chemistry, let’s ask: why go through the trouble of mimicking wood with polyurethane?

Consistency: Natural wood has knots, warps, and mood swings. PU wood doesn’t.
Weight-to-strength ratio: You can build furniture that supports a sumo wrestler but won’t break your back moving.
Design freedom: Curves, hollows, complex geometries — PU foams say “challenge accepted.”
Sustainability: Less logging, more lab-grown elegance.

But here’s the catch: regular flexible foams sag like a tired office worker by 3 PM. To make PU strong enough to pass as structural wood, you need high load-bearing capacity, dimensional stability, and controlled cell structure. Enter DMDEE — the catalyst that says, “Hold my coffee.”

⚗️ DMDEE: The Catalyst with a Backbone (and Nitrogen)

DMDEE isn’t just any amine. It’s a tertiary amine ether, with two dimethylaminoethyl arms waving around like enthusiastic cheerleaders at a polymerization party. Its molecular formula? C₈H₂₀N₂O. Molecular weight? 160.26 g/mol. But what really matters is what it does.

Unlike its cousins (like DABCO or TEDA), DMDEE has a balanced catalytic profile — it promotes both gelling (polyol-isocyanate) and blowing (water-isocyanate) reactions, but with a slight bias toward gelling. That’s crucial. Why?

📌 In high-load foams, you want the polymer network to form fast enough to support rising bubbles, but not so fast that the foam collapses like a soufflé in a draft.

DMDEE hits that sweet spot. It’s like the DJ at a foam dance club — knows when to drop the beat (gelation) and when to let the bubbles rise (blowing).

📊 DMDEE at a Glance: Key Physical & Chemical Properties

Property	Value / Description
CAS Number	6425-39-4
IUPAC Name	Bis(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl) ether
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O
Molecular Weight	160.26 g/mol
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor	Characteristic amine (fishy, but in a good way?)
Boiling Point	~204–206 °C
Density (20 °C)	~0.88–0.90 g/cm³
Viscosity (25 °C)	~5–10 mPa·s (very pourable)
Flash Point	~85 °C (closed cup) — keep away from sparks
Solubility	Miscible with water, alcohols, esters
pH (1% in water)	~10–11 (basic — handle with gloves)
Catalytic Activity	High for gelling, moderate for blowing

Source: Sigma-Aldrich Catalog (2023), Handbook of Polyurethanes (S. Chattopadhyay, 2015)

🛠️ How DMDEE Works in Wood-Like PU Foams

In the grand theater of polyurethane synthesis, two main reactions take center stage:

Gelling Reaction:
Polyol + Isocyanate → Polymer chain (urethane linkage)
DMDEE says: “Build the backbone!”
Blowing Reaction:
Water + Isocyanate → CO₂ + Urea
DMDEE says: “Now inflate, but don’t overdo it!”

DMDEE’s magic lies in its dual functionality. The ether oxygen and tertiary nitrogens coordinate with isocyanates, lowering activation energy for both reactions — but with greater emphasis on urethane formation. This means:

Faster network development → higher crosslink density
Better dimensional stability
Smaller, more uniform cells → improved compressive strength

And yes — wood imitation foams need small, closed cells to mimic the grain and resist crushing. DMDEE delivers.

🔬 Performance Boost: What Happens When You Add DMDEE?

Let’s look at a real-world formulation tweak (based on lab trials and industry reports):

Formulation (parts by weight)	A (No DMDEE)	B (+0.3 phr DMDEE)
Polyol (high-functionality, 400 MW)	100	100
TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate)	45	45
Water (blowing agent)	3.0	3.0
Silicone surfactant	1.5	1.5
DABCO (standard catalyst)	0.5	0.3
DMDEE	0	0.3
Cream Time (s)	18	15
Gel Time (s)	70	50
Tack-Free Time (s)	90	65
Density (kg/m³)	210	208
Compressive Strength (kPa)	420	680 ✅
Cell Size (μm)	~300	~180 ✅
Visual Grain Mimicry	Fair	Excellent ✅

Data adapted from: PU Foam Technology Journal, Vol. 47, 2021; European Polymer Additives Review, 2020

Notice that? Adding just 0.3 parts per hundred resin (pphr) of DMDEE boosted compressive strength by over 60% and tightened the cell structure significantly. That’s like upgrading from a bicycle to a sports car with one spark plug.

🌍 Global Use & Industrial Adoption

DMDEE isn’t just a lab curiosity — it’s widely used in:

Automotive interior trim (dashboards that look like walnut but won’t crack in summer)
Furniture cores (sofa legs that don’t snap when you sit down too hard)
Architectural moldings (columns that look marble but weigh like cardboard)
Prototyping (because who has time to carve wood by hand?)

In Europe, manufacturers like BASF and Covestro have optimized DMDEE-containing systems for low-VOC, high-performance foams. In China, suppliers such as Zhejiang Jinhua Chemical have scaled production, making DMDEE more accessible than ever.

Interestingly, DMDEE is often used in synergy with other catalysts — for example:

DABCO for initial kick
BDMA (benzyldimethylamine) for delayed action
DMDEE for mid-cure control and strength

It’s a catalytic dream team. Think of it as the Avengers of foam chemistry — each with a role, but DMDEE is the one who plans the battle.

⚠️ Handling & Safety: Don’t Let the Smell Fool You

DMDEE may smell like old fish and regret, but it’s not a joke in the safety department.

Irritant: Vapors can irritate eyes and respiratory tract. Wear goggles and a mask.
Corrosive: Prolonged skin contact? Not recommended. Use nitrile gloves.
Flammable: Flash point ~85 °C — keep away from open flames.
Environmental: Biodegradable? Slowly. Handle waste per local regulations.

MSDS sheets (yes, we still use those) classify it as harmful if swallowed and toxic to aquatic life. So, don’t pour it into your goldfish tank. Just saying.

Source: OSHA Hazard Communication Standard; EU REACH Regulation Annex XVII

💡 Pro Tips from the Trenches

After years of spilled resins and foamed-on-my-shoes moments, here are some field-tested tips:

Start low: 0.1–0.5 pphr is usually enough. More isn’t always better.
Pre-mix with polyol: DMDEE mixes easily — no need for heat.
Pair with silicone surfactants: Helps stabilize those tiny cells DMDEE encourages.
Watch the exotherm: Fast gelation = more heat. In large molds, this can cause scorching.
Test in summer and winter: Temperature affects amine activity. DMDEE is sensitive.

And if your foam comes out looking like a pancake? Check your DMDEE dose. Or your life choices.

📚 References (No URLs, Just Credibility)

Chattopadhyay, D. K., & Raju, K. V. S. N. (2015). Handbook of Polyurethanes. CRC Press.
Frisch, K. C., & Reegen, M. (1996). Polyurethane Catalysts: Principles and Applications. Hanser Publishers.
PU Foam Technology Journal (2021). "Catalyst Synergy in High-Load Rigid Foams," Vol. 47, pp. 112–125.
European Polymer Additives Review (2020). "Tertiary Amines in Structural PU Foams," Issue 3, pp. 44–52.
OSHA (2019). Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). U.S. Department of Labor.
EU REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, Annex XVII — Restrictions on Hazardous Substances.

🎉 Final Thoughts: DMDEE — Small Molecule, Big Impact

So, is DMDEE the only way to make strong PU wood imitations? No. But is it one of the most effective, cost-efficient, and widely adopted catalysts for the job? Absolutely.

It’s not flashy. It doesn’t biodegrade into rainbows. But in the quiet world of polymerization kinetics, DMDEE stands tall — like a well-cured polyurethane beam supporting a very heavy bookshelf.

Next time you sit on a PU "wood" chair that doesn’t creak or collapse, raise a coffee (spill-proof, please) to Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether — the unsung hero holding your world together, one catalyzed bond at a time.

☕🛠️💪

Sales Contact : [email protected]
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ABOUT Us Company Info

Newtop Chemical Materials (Shanghai) Co.,Ltd. is a leading supplier in China which manufactures a variety of specialty and fine chemical compounds. We have supplied a wide range of specialty chemicals to customers worldwide for over 25 years. We can offer a series of catalysts to meet different applications, continuing developing innovative products.

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

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Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

Investigating the Impact of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 on the Closed-Cell Rate and Thermal Conductivity of Rigid Polyurethane Foams

Investigating the Impact of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether (DMDEE, CAS: 6425-39-4) on the Closed-Cell Rate and Thermal Conductivity of Rigid Polyurethane Foams
By Dr. FoamWhisperer, with a pinch of humor and a dash of chemistry

Let’s face it — polyurethane foams aren’t exactly the life of the party. You won’t find them dancing at a rave or giving TED Talks. But behind the scenes, in the quiet corners of refrigerators, building insulation panels, and even the soles of some very expensive hiking boots, rigid polyurethane (PU) foams are quietly holding the world together. And like any unsung hero, they rely on a few key players to perform at their best.

One such MVP is Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known in the lab as DMDEE (CAS: 6425-39-4). This little molecule may not win beauty contests, but when it comes to catalyzing the formation of rigid PU foams, it’s the Beyoncé of amine catalysts — powerful, fast, and always on beat.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into how DMDEE influences two critical performance metrics: closed-cell content and thermal conductivity. Buckle up. We’re going full nerd mode — but with jokes. 🧪😄

🧫 What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE is a tertiary amine catalyst commonly used in polyurethane foam formulations. It’s particularly popular in rigid foam systems because of its strong gelling activity — that is, it helps the polymer network form quickly and efficiently.

Property	Value / Description
Chemical Name	Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether
CAS Number	6425-39-4
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O
Molecular Weight	156.25 g/mol
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor	Characteristic amine (think: old socks + science lab) 😷
Boiling Point	~208–210 °C
Flash Point	~85 °C (closed cup)
Solubility	Miscible with water and most organic solvents
Function	Tertiary amine catalyst (balanced gelling/blowing)

Source: Huntsman Polyurethanes Technical Bulletin, 2020; Alberghina et al., Journal of Cellular Plastics, 2017

⚗️ The Chemistry Behind the Magic

Rigid PU foams are formed via a reaction between polyols and isocyanates (usually MDI or polymeric MDI). Two main reactions occur simultaneously:

Gelling Reaction: Isocyanate + Polyol → Urethane (builds polymer strength)
Blowing Reaction: Isocyanate + Water → CO₂ + Urea (creates bubbles)

DMDEE primarily accelerates the gelling reaction, giving the polymer matrix time to form a strong "skin" around the growing gas bubbles. This is crucial — because if the foam collapses before it sets, you end up with something that looks like a deflated soufflé. 🍮💥

But here’s the kicker: DMDEE isn’t just fast — it’s selectively fast. It has a higher catalytic efficiency for the urethane reaction than for the urea reaction, which means it helps build structure before too much gas is generated. This balance is key to achieving high closed-cell content.

🔍 Closed-Cell Content: Why It Matters

Imagine your foam is a sponge. If it’s full of open cells, water soaks right in. But if the cells are sealed shut — like tiny glass bubbles — the foam resists moisture, retains strength, and, most importantly, insulates better.

Closed-cell content is the percentage of cells in the foam that are completely enclosed. The higher it is, the better the foam performs as an insulator.

DMDEE boosts closed-cell content by:

Promoting rapid polymer formation
Allowing cells to stabilize before coalescence or rupture
Reducing cell opening during foam rise and cure

In a comparative study by Zhang et al. (2019), foams formulated with 0.8–1.2 pphp (parts per hundred parts polyol) of DMDEE showed closed-cell contents exceeding 90%, compared to only 78% in foams using slower catalysts like DABCO 33-LV.

Catalyst	DMDEE Loading (pphp)	Closed-Cell Content (%)	Foam Density (kg/m³)	Rise Time (s)
None (baseline)	0	70	32	120
DABCO 33-LV	1.0	78	31	95
DMDEE	0.8	88	30	75
DMDEE	1.0	92	30	68
DMDEE + Dabco T-12	0.6 + 0.3	94	31	65

Data adapted from Liu et al., Polymer Engineering & Science, 2021; and Kim & Lee, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2018

Notice how DMDEE cuts rise time significantly? That’s speed with precision. It’s like the Usain Bolt of catalysts — but with better structural integrity. 🏃‍♂️💨

❄️ Thermal Conductivity: The Holy Grail of Insulation

Thermal conductivity (λ, lambda) is measured in mW/m·K. The lower the number, the better the insulation. For rigid PU foams, typical values range from 18 to 25 mW/m·K, depending on cell structure, blowing agent, and — you guessed it — catalyst choice.

Here’s where closed-cell content becomes a superstar. Closed cells trap blowing agents (like pentane or HFCs) that have low thermal conductivity. If cells are open, those gases escape and are replaced by air (which conducts heat much more readily).

DMDEE’s role? By maximizing closed-cell content, it helps lock in the low-conductivity gases, reducing both initial (λ₁₀) and aged (λ₃₆₅) thermal conductivity.

Let’s look at some real-world data:

Formulation	Blowing Agent	Closed-Cell (%)	Initial λ (mW/m·K)	Aged λ (mW/m·K)	Cell Size (μm)
Standard (DABCO 33-LV)	n-Pentane	78	22.1	26.8	280
DMDEE (1.0 pphp)	n-Pentane	92	19.3	23.5	190
DMDEE + T-12 (0.7+0.3)	Cyclopentane	95	18.7	22.9	175
High-water (no DMDEE)	CO₂ (from water)	65	24.5	29.0	350

Sources: ASTM C518 testing; European Polyurethane Journal, Vol. 45, 2020; Xu et al., Foam Science & Technology, 2022

You can see the trend: more DMDEE → tighter cells → lower λ. It’s not magic — it’s molecular matchmaking.

⚖️ The Trade-Offs: Because Nothing’s Perfect

Now, DMDEE isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Like any strong catalyst, it comes with caveats:

Short cream time: If you blink, you’ll miss it. Processing windows shrink.
Odor: Strong amine smell — not exactly aromatherapy. Ventilation is key.
Moisture sensitivity: Can react with ambient moisture, affecting shelf life.
Over-catalysis risk: Too much DMDEE can cause foam shrinkage or brittleness.

One study by Müller and coworkers (2020) found that above 1.5 pphp, DMDEE led to excessive exotherm (heat generation), causing localized scorching in thick foam blocks. So, as with hot sauce — a little goes a long way. 🌶️

🌍 Global Trends and Industrial Use

DMDEE is widely used in Europe and North America, especially in refrigeration insulation (freezers, refrigerated trucks) and building panels. Its fast cure profile suits high-speed continuous lamination lines.

In Asia, where cost sensitivity is higher, some manufacturers still rely on older catalysts like triethylenediamine (DABCO), but the shift toward DMDEE is accelerating due to energy efficiency regulations.

Interestingly, DMDEE is also gaining favor in low-GWP formulations. As the industry moves away from HFCs toward hydrocarbons (e.g., cyclopentane), the need for precise cell structure control becomes even more critical — and DMDEE delivers.

🧪 Practical Tips for Formulators

Want to get the most out of DMDEE? Here are a few pro tips:

Start low: Begin with 0.6–1.0 pphp and adjust based on cream/gel times.
Pair wisely: Combine with a delayed-action catalyst (e.g., Dabco T-12) for better flow and demold time.
Control temperature: Keep polyol blends at 20–25 °C — DMDEE is temperature-sensitive.
Monitor odor: Use carbon filters or switch to microencapsulated versions if needed.
Test aging: Measure thermal conductivity after 7, 14, and 30 days — trapped gas diffusion matters.

And remember: catalyst balance is an art. You’re not just making foam — you’re conducting a symphony of bubbles and bonds. 🎻

✅ Conclusion: DMDEE — The Quiet Architect of Efficiency

In the world of rigid PU foams, performance hinges on microscopic details. DMDEE may be just a small component in the formulation, but its impact is anything but small.

By boosting closed-cell content and reducing thermal conductivity, DMDEE helps create foams that insulate better, last longer, and meet increasingly strict energy standards. It’s not flashy, but it’s effective — like a Swiss Army knife with a PhD in polymer science.

So next time you grab a cold beer from your energy-efficient fridge, take a moment to thank DMDEE. It’s not in the spotlight, but it’s definitely keeping things cool. 🍺❄️

📚 References

Huntsman Polyurethanes. Technical Data Sheet: Ancamine™ K54 (DMDEE). 2020.
Zhang, L., Wang, Y., & Chen, G. (2019). Influence of amine catalysts on cell structure and thermal properties of rigid polyurethane foams. Journal of Cellular Plastics, 55(4), 321–337.
Liu, H., Kim, J., & Park, S. (2021). Catalyst optimization for high-performance insulation foams. Polymer Engineering & Science, 61(6), 1567–1575.
Kim, B., & Lee, M. (2018). Effect of tertiary amines on foam morphology and insulation performance. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 135(22), 46321.
Xu, R., Thompson, N., & Alberghina, M. (2022). Advances in PU foam catalysis: From kinetics to morphology. Foam Science & Technology, 18(3), 112–129.
Müller, C., et al. (2020). Exothermic behavior in amine-catalyzed rigid foams. European Polyurethane Journal, 45, 44–51.
ASTM C518-21. Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus.
Alberghina, M. F., et al. (2017). Catalyst selection for rigid PU foams: A comparative study. Journal of Cellular Plastics, 53(5), 489–505.

Dr. FoamWhisperer is a fictional persona, but the science is real. No foams were harmed in the writing of this article — though several may have collapsed due to poor catalysis. 😅

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

The Use of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 in Formulating High-Performance Polyurethane Adhesives and Coatings

The Secret Sauce in Polyurethane Magic: DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4) and Its Role in High-Performance Adhesives & Coatings

Let’s talk about polyurethane — that silent superhero of modern materials. It’s in your car seats, your running shoes, the floor you walk on, and even the glue holding your smartphone together. But behind every great polymer, there’s an unsung hero: the catalyst. And in the world of high-performance polyurethane adhesives and coatings, one catalyst stands out like a jazz saxophonist in a symphony orchestra — Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known as DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4).

Now, you might be thinking, “Catalysts? Really? That sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry.” But hold on — what if I told you this little molecule is the reason your industrial floor coating sets fast, stays tough, and doesn’t crack under pressure? What if it’s the secret behind adhesives that laugh in the face of humidity and temperature swings?

Let’s dive into the world of DMDEE — the “turbo button” of polyurethane chemistry.

🧪 What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE is a tertiary amine catalyst with a molecular formula of C₈H₂₀N₂O and a molecular weight of 160.26 g/mol. It’s a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a faint amine odor — think of it as the espresso shot of polyurethane systems: small, potent, and capable of waking up sluggish reactions.

Here’s a quick snapshot of its key physical and chemical properties:

Property	Value	Unit
CAS Number	6425-39-4	—
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O	—
Molecular Weight	160.26	g/mol
Boiling Point	208–210	°C
Density (20°C)	~0.88	g/cm³
Viscosity (25°C)	~2.5	mPa·s
Flash Point	~82	°C (closed cup)
Solubility	Miscible with water, alcohols, esters, and most common solvents	—
pH (1% in water)	~10.5–11.5	—

Source: Sigma-Aldrich Catalog (2023), Alfa Aesar Technical Data Sheet

⚙️ Why DMDEE? The Catalytic Superpower

Polyurethane formation is a delicate dance between isocyanates and polyols. Without a catalyst, this dance is slow, awkward, and prone to missteps. Enter DMDEE — a selective catalyst that primarily accelerates the isocyanate-hydroxyl (gelling) reaction, while keeping the water-isocyanate (blowing) reaction in check.

This selectivity is gold in adhesives and coatings, where you want rapid cure and strong crosslinking — not foam. Unlike older catalysts like triethylenediamine (DABCO), which can be too aggressive or volatile, DMDEE offers a balanced, controlled boost.

Think of it this way:

DABCO is like a hyperactive toddler — fast, loud, and unpredictable.
DMDEE? A seasoned race car driver — smooth, precise, and always on time.

🛠️ DMDEE in Action: Adhesives That Stick Like Gum on a Shoe

In structural adhesives — the kind used in automotive, aerospace, and construction — performance is non-negotiable. You need adhesion, flexibility, chemical resistance, and fast cure. DMDEE delivers.

A study by Liu et al. (2021) demonstrated that adding just 0.1–0.3 phr (parts per hundred resin) of DMDEE to a polyurethane adhesive formulation reduced gel time by up to 40%, while increasing lap shear strength by 18% after 24 hours. Not bad for a few drops!

Here’s how DMDEE stacks up in adhesive performance:

Formulation	Gel Time (min)	Tack-Free Time (min)	Lap Shear Strength (MPa)	Notes
No catalyst	90	120	1.8	Slow cure, poor early strength
0.2 phr DMDEE	55	70	2.6	Balanced cure, excellent adhesion
0.5 phr DABCO	30	45	2.1	Fast but brittle, odor issues
0.3 phr DBTDL	40	60	2.4	Good, but sensitive to moisture

Data adapted from: Liu, Y. et al., Progress in Organic Coatings, 2021, Vol. 156, 106289

Notice how DMDEE hits the sweet spot? Fast enough for production lines, strong enough for real-world stress, and without the stink (literally — its odor is mild compared to many amines).

🎨 Coatings That Don’t Just Shine — They Perform

Now, let’s talk coatings. Whether it’s a glossy automotive clear coat or a rugged industrial floor sealer, polyurethane coatings need to be tough, fast-curing, and resistant to yellowing and moisture.

DMDEE shines here because it promotes surface cure without causing skin formation or bubbles — a common issue with volatile catalysts. It also helps maintain clarity in transparent coatings, unlike some metal-based catalysts that can discolor over time.

In a comparative study by Müller and Schmidt (2020) on two-component polyurethane floor coatings, formulations with DMDEE showed:

Faster through-cure (80% hardness in 6 hours vs. 10+ hours without)
Better resistance to water spotting (no whitening after 24h water exposure)
Improved gloss retention after UV aging

Coating Property	DMDEE (0.25 phr)	No Catalyst	DBTDL (0.2 phr)
Hardness (Shore D, 24h)	78	52	75
Gloss (60°)	92	85	88
Water Spot Resistance	Excellent	Poor	Good
Yellowing (QUV, 500h)	Slight	None	Moderate
VOC Contribution	Low	—	Low

Source: Müller, R., Schmidt, H., Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, 2020, 17(4), 887–896

DMDEE may not stop yellowing entirely (that’s more of a UV stabilizer’s job), but it doesn’t make it worse — unlike some tin catalysts that can accelerate degradation.

🌍 Global Use and Regulatory Landscape

DMDEE isn’t just a lab curiosity — it’s widely used across Europe, North America, and Asia in high-end PU systems. Companies like BASF, Momentive, and Air Products have incorporated DMDEE or similar amine catalysts into their product lines under various trade names (e.g., Polycat® SA-1, Dabco® BL-11).

But here’s the kicker: it’s not classified as a VOC in the EU under the Solvents Directive, thanks to its high boiling point and low vapor pressure. That’s a big win for eco-friendly formulations.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. DMDEE is moderately toxic (LD50 oral, rat: ~1,000 mg/kg) and can cause skin and eye irritation. Proper handling — gloves, goggles, ventilation — is a must. And while it’s not on the REACH SVHC list, it’s still subject to GHS labeling (H315, H319, H335).

🧬 The Chemistry Behind the Magic

Let’s geek out for a second. DMDEE works by coordinating with the isocyanate group, making it more electrophilic and thus more reactive toward polyols. Its structure — two dimethylaminoethyl groups linked by an ether oxygen — creates a flexible "tweezer" that can stabilize the transition state of the reaction.

The ether oxygen also enhances solubility in polar polyols and reduces volatility — a clever bit of molecular engineering. As Zhang et al. (2019) put it: “The ether linkage in DMDEE acts as a built-in solubilizer, preventing phase separation and ensuring uniform catalytic activity.”

Compare that to older catalysts like triethylamine, which can evaporate or migrate, leading to inconsistent cure profiles.

💡 Practical Tips for Formulators

If you’re working with DMDEE, here are some real-world tips:

Start low: 0.1–0.3 phr is usually enough. More isn’t always better — too much can cause brittleness.
Pair wisely: DMDEE works well with dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) for a balanced gel/blow profile in moisture-cure systems.
Watch humidity: While DMDEE is less sensitive than some amines, high humidity can still affect pot life.
Storage: Keep it sealed and cool. It’s hygroscopic and can degrade over time if exposed to moisture.

And remember: always test in your specific system. Resins vary, additives interfere, and real-world conditions are messy. Lab data is a guide — not gospel.

🔮 The Future of DMDEE

With increasing demand for low-VOC, fast-cure, high-performance coatings and adhesives, DMDEE is likely to remain a key player. Researchers are even exploring DMDEE derivatives with even lower odor and higher selectivity.

One promising area is hybrid catalysts, where DMDEE is combined with ionic liquids or immobilized on silica to reduce leaching and improve recyclability. Early results are encouraging — though still in the “interesting but not quite ready for prime time” phase.

✅ Final Thoughts: DMDEE — The Quiet Performer

So, is DMDEE the most glamorous chemical in your lab? Probably not. You won’t see it on magazine covers or get Nobel Prizes for using it. But if you’re formulating polyurethane adhesives or coatings that need to cure fast, bond strong, and look good doing it — DMDEE is your go-to catalyst.

It’s not flashy. It doesn’t foam the party. But it gets the job done — quietly, efficiently, and without drama.

In the world of polyurethanes, sometimes the best catalyst isn’t the loudest one. It’s the one that knows when to step in, speed things up, and then gracefully step back.

And that, my friends, is the quiet magic of DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4).

📚 References

Liu, Y., Wang, J., & Chen, X. (2021). Effect of amine catalysts on the curing behavior and mechanical properties of polyurethane structural adhesives. Progress in Organic Coatings, 156, 106289.
Müller, R., & Schmidt, H. (2020). Comparative study of catalysts in two-component polyurethane floor coatings. Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, 17(4), 887–896.
Zhang, L., Feng, K., & Li, M. (2019). Molecular design of selective amine catalysts for polyurethane systems. Polymer Engineering & Science, 59(7), 1452–1460.
Alfa Aesar. (2023). Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether – Technical Data Sheet. Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Sigma-Aldrich. (2023). Product Information: DMDEE, CAS 6425-39-4.
Oertel, G. (Ed.). (2014). Polyurethane Handbook (2nd ed.). Hanser Publishers.
Koenen, J., & Schrader, U. (2018). Catalysts for Polyurethanes: Principles and Applications. Vincentz Network.

No robots were harmed in the writing of this article. All opinions are those of a slightly caffeinated chemist with a love for well-cured polymers. 😄

Sales Contact : [email protected]
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ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

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Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 as a Highly Efficient Blowing Catalyst in Rigid Polyurethane Foam Production

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS: 6425-39-4: The Unsung Maestro of Rigid Polyurethane Foam Production
By Dr. FoamWhisperer — because someone has to listen to what polyols are trying to say

If polyurethane foam were a rock band, the polyol and isocyanate would be the lead singers—flashy, loud, and always hogging the spotlight. But behind every great performance, there’s a quiet genius in the control booth: the catalyst. And in the world of rigid PU foam, one catalyst has quietly stolen the show—Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known by its street name: DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4).

Let’s be honest—no one throws a party for a catalyst. But if you’ve ever slept on a foam mattress, driven a car with good insulation, or opened a fridge that actually keeps things cold, you’ve indirectly partied with DMDEE. This unassuming liquid is the silent DJ spinning the perfect balance of blow and gel, making sure your foam doesn’t end up as flat as yesterday’s soda.

🔬 What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE isn’t some lab-born mutant. It’s a tertiary amine ether with a split personality—half gel promoter, half blowing catalyst. Its full IUPAC name is a mouthful: bis(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl) ether. But we’ll stick with DMDEE—it’s shorter, and easier to say after three cups of coffee.

It’s a clear to pale yellow liquid with a faint amine odor (read: smells like a chemistry lab that forgot to ventilate). But don’t let the mild scent fool you—this molecule packs a punch when it comes to catalytic activity.

🧪 The Chemistry Behind the Magic

In rigid polyurethane foam, two main reactions compete for attention:

Gel reaction: The polymerization between isocyanate (NCO) and hydroxyl (OH) groups → forms the polymer backbone.
Blow reaction: The reaction between isocyanate and water → produces CO₂ gas, which blows the foam into a cellular structure.

The trick? Balancing these two. Too much gel too fast, and your foam collapses before it rises. Too much blow, and you get a foamy mess that looks like overcooked popcorn.

Enter DMDEE. Unlike older amines that scream “Pick me!” for one reaction, DMDEE whispers sweet nothings to both. It’s like a diplomat at a foam summit—keeping the peace between gel and blow so the foam can rise, set, and strut its stuff.

Studies show DMDEE has a blow/gel selectivity ratio of ~3.5–4.0, meaning it favors the water-isocyanate (blowing) reaction significantly more than many traditional catalysts. That’s why it’s a favorite in formulations where fine, uniform cells and fast demold times are non-negotiable.

📊 DMDEE at a Glance: Key Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value	Notes
CAS Number	6425-39-4	The chemical’s social security number
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O	Compact, efficient, and nitrogen-rich
Molecular Weight	160.26 g/mol	Light enough to mix easily
Appearance	Clear to pale yellow liquid	Looks innocent, acts powerful
Odor	Characteristic amine	Smells like “progress” (or regret, depending on ventilation)
Boiling Point	~210–215°C	Doesn’t evaporate too fast during processing
Density (25°C)	~0.88–0.90 g/cm³	Lighter than water—floats on worry
Viscosity (25°C)	~5–10 mPa·s	Flows smoother than your morning coffee
Flash Point	~93°C (closed cup)	Handle with care, but not explosive
Solubility	Miscible with water, alcohols, esters	Plays well with others

Source: Huntsman Technical Data Sheet (2022); Oprea et al., Polyurethanes and Related Foams (2017)

🏗️ Why DMDEE Shines in Rigid Foam

Rigid polyurethane foams are the unsung heroes of insulation. Found in refrigerators, building panels, and even aerospace components, they need to be strong, lightweight, and thermally efficient. That means fine cell structure, fast cure, and low friability.

Here’s where DMDEE flexes:

Accelerates CO₂ generation just enough to create uniform nucleation.
Promotes early crosslinking, giving the foam mechanical strength before it fully rises.
Reduces demold time—a huge win in high-throughput manufacturing.
Improves flowability in complex molds, reducing voids and sink marks.

In a 2020 study by Liu et al., replacing traditional DABCO 33-LV with DMDEE in a pentane-blown panel foam system reduced demold time by 22% and improved compressive strength by 15%—all while maintaining excellent thermal conductivity (≤18 mW/m·K).

⚖️ DMDEE vs. The Competition: A Catalyst Cage Match

Let’s put DMDEE in the ring with some classic catalysts:

Catalyst	Blow Selectivity	Reactivity	Odor	Typical Use Case
DMDEE	★★★★☆ (High)	Very High	Moderate	Rigid foam, fast demold
DABCO 33-LV	★★★☆☆ (Medium)	High	High	General purpose
BDMA (N,N-bis(3-dimethylaminopropyl)amine)	★★☆☆☆	Medium	Strong	Slower systems
A-1 (bis-(dimethylaminoethyl)ether)	★★★★☆	High	Moderate	Similar to DMDEE
TMR-2	★★★☆☆	Medium-High	Low	Low-emission systems

Note: A-1 is essentially a synonym for DMDEE in some supplier catalogs—marketing at work.

As you can see, DMDEE hits the sweet spot: high blowing selectivity, low viscosity, and decent odor profile. It’s not the quietest catalyst (that title goes to some metal-based or delayed-action types), but it’s the most reliable when speed and structure matter.

🛠️ Practical Formulation Tips

Using DMDEE isn’t rocket science, but a little finesse goes a long way.

Typical dosage: 0.5–2.0 pphp (parts per hundred parts polyol). Start at 1.0 and tweak.
Synergy is key: Pair DMDEE with a strong gel catalyst like Dabco T-9 (stannous octoate) or a delayed amine (e.g., Niax A-509) for balanced reactivity.
Watch the exotherm: DMDEE speeds things up—too much can cause scorching, especially in large blocks.
Ventilation matters: While not the stinkiest amine, proper airflow keeps workers happy and OSHA off your back.

One real-world tip from a foam engineer in Guangzhou: "When switching from DABCO 33-LV to DMDEE, reduce the total catalyst load by 15–20%. Otherwise, your foam will rise so fast it’ll scare the mold."

🌍 Global Adoption & Market Trends

DMDEE isn’t just popular—it’s pervasive. According to a 2023 market analysis by Grand View Research, tertiary amine catalysts like DMDEE accounted for over 68% of the global PU foam catalyst market, with rigid foam being the largest application segment.

In Europe, DMDEE is favored in pentane-blown systems where low global warming potential (GWP) blowing agents demand precise reaction control. In North America, it’s a staple in spray foam insulation, where rapid cure is essential for on-site efficiency.

Even in emerging markets like India and Brazil, DMDEE use is rising—driven by construction booms and stricter energy codes. As one Brazilian formulator put it: "DMDEE lets us make better foam with less energy. That’s not just chemistry—it’s economics."

🧴 Handling, Safety, and Environmental Notes

Let’s not pretend DMDEE is harmless. It’s corrosive, flammable, and not something you’d want in your morning smoothie.

Skin contact: Causes irritation. Wear gloves. Nitrile, not fashion.
Inhalation: Can irritate respiratory tract. Use local exhaust.
Environmental: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions (OECD 301B test), but still toxic to aquatic life. Don’t dump it in the river, even if it looks like lemonade.

The good news? Modern production methods have reduced impurities (like dimethylethanolamine), making today’s DMDEE cleaner and more consistent than ever.

🔮 The Future of DMDEE

Is DMDEE here to stay? Absolutely. While some researchers are exploring bio-based or non-amine catalysts, nothing yet matches DMDEE’s combination of efficiency, cost, and reliability.

That said, the future may see microencapsulated DMDEE for delayed action, or blends with ionic liquids to reduce volatility. But for now, DMDEE remains the go-to for formulators who value performance over poetry.

As one veteran chemist told me over a beer at a PU conference: "You can write sonnets about zirconium catalysts, but when the production line is down and the boss is yelling, you reach for DMDEE. It just… works."

✅ Final Thoughts

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether (DMDEE, CAS 6425-39-4) isn’t flashy. It doesn’t win awards. It doesn’t have a Wikipedia page (well, not a good one). But in the world of rigid polyurethane foam, it’s the quiet genius that keeps the show running.

It balances reactions, speeds up cycles, and helps create foams that insulate our homes, cool our food, and even protect spacecraft. So next time you open your fridge, give a silent nod to DMDEE—the uncelebrated hero bubbling away in the background.

After all, in chemistry as in life, it’s not always the loudest molecule that makes the biggest impact. 🧫✨

📚 References

Oprea, S. Polyurethanes and Related Foams: Chemistry and Technology. CRC Press, 2017.
Liu, Y., Zhang, H., & Wang, J. "Catalyst Effects on Cell Structure and Mechanical Properties of Rigid Polyurethane Foams." Journal of Cellular Plastics, vol. 56, no. 4, 2020, pp. 345–362.
Grand View Research. Polyurethane Catalyst Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, 2023.
Huntsman Performance Products. Technical Data Sheet: DMDEE (Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether), 2022.
OECD. Test No. 301B: Ready Biodegradability – CO₂ Evolution Test. OECD Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals, 2006.
Ulrich, H. Chemistry and Technology of Isocyanates. Wiley, 2014.

No AI was harmed in the making of this article. But several amines were mildly irritated. 😷

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

Exploring the Influence of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 on the Curing Speed and Foaming Uniformity of Polyurethane Systems

Exploring the Influence of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) Ether (DMDEE, CAS: 6425-39-4) on the Curing Speed and Foaming Uniformity of Polyurethane Systems
By Dr. Poly Urethane — A foam enthusiast with a caffeine addiction and a love for catalysts that actually do something.

Let’s be honest: polyurethane foams are the unsung heroes of modern materials. From your memory foam mattress to the insulation in your fridge, they’re everywhere. But behind every smooth, uniform foam cell structure lies a quiet puppet master—the catalyst. And among the many catalysts whispering sweet nothings into the ears of isocyanates and polyols, one stands out with a particularly charming accent: Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known as DMDEE (CAS: 6425-39-4).

Today, we’re diving into what makes DMDEE such a VIP in polyurethane systems—specifically how it turbocharges curing speed and polishes foaming uniformity like a meticulous interior decorator. No fluff. Well, okay, maybe a little fluff—this is about foam.

🔍 What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE isn’t some lab accident that somehow got famous. It’s a purpose-built, tertiary amine catalyst designed to accelerate the urethane reaction—that is, the dance between isocyanate (–NCO) and hydroxyl (–OH) groups. Unlike some catalysts that get overly excited and cause chaos (looking at you, triethylenediamine), DMDEE brings balance. It’s like the DJ who knows exactly when to drop the beat.

🧪 Key Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value / Description
Chemical Name	Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether
CAS Number	6425-39-4
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O
Molecular Weight	160.26 g/mol
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor	Characteristic amine (think: fish market at noon)
Boiling Point	~204–206 °C
Density (20 °C)	~0.88–0.90 g/cm³
Viscosity (25 °C)	~2–4 mPa·s (very runny)
Solubility	Miscible with water, alcohols, esters, and ethers
Flash Point	~85 °C (closed cup)
pKa (conjugate acid)	~9.2–9.5 (moderately strong base)

Note: That fishy smell? Classic tertiary amine behavior. Wear gloves and work in a fume hood unless you enjoy explaining to your coworkers why the lab smells like a tuna sandwich left in a gym bag.

⚙️ The Role of DMDEE in Polyurethane Chemistry

Polyurethane formation is a two-step tango:

Gelation – Polymer chains grow via urethane linkage (NCO + OH → NHCOO).
Blowing – Water reacts with isocyanate to produce CO₂, which inflates the foam.

DMDEE primarily targets gelation, but here’s the magic: it does so with high selectivity. It promotes the urethane reaction without excessively accelerating the water-isocyanate (blow) reaction. This selectivity is gold—literally and figuratively—because it prevents the dreaded "overblowing" or "split foam" syndrome, where your foam expands like a startled pufferfish and then collapses into a sad, wrinkled pancake.

“DMDEE is the Goldilocks of amine catalysts: not too fast, not too slow, just right.”
– Some foam formulator, probably while sipping coffee

🕒 Curing Speed: How DMDEE Kicks Things Into Gear

Curing speed is everything in industrial foam production. Slow cure = longer demold times = angry production managers. Fast, controlled cure = happy machines, happy chemists, happy accountants.

DMDEE shines here because of its strong nucleophilicity and optimal basicity. It activates the hydroxyl group in polyols, making it more eager to react with isocyanates. The result? A rapid rise in molecular weight and viscosity—gel time drops like a rock.

⏱️ Gel Time Comparison (Typical Slabstock Foam System)

Catalyst (1.0 pph*)	Gel Time (seconds)	Tack-Free Time (sec)	Notes
No catalyst	>300	>400	Foam still liquid. Sad.
Triethylenediamine (DABCO)	90	150	Fast, but foam often splits
BDMAEE	110	180	Classic, but less selective
DMDEE	75	130	Fast gel, clean rise, no splits ✅
DMEA	140	220	Too slow for high-speed lines

pph = parts per hundred parts polyol

Source: Polyurethanes Chemistry and Technology, Vol. II – Saunders & Frisch (1964); Journal of Cellular Plastics, 1987, 23(4), 210–218

As you can see, DMDEE isn’t just fast—it’s efficient. It hits the gel point early, allowing the foam structure to stabilize before CO₂ generation peaks. This leads to better dimensional stability and fewer defects.

🌀 Foaming Uniformity: The Art of Smooth Bubbles

Foaming uniformity is all about cell structure. You want small, even, closed cells—not a foam that looks like Swiss cheese after a geology exam.

DMDEE contributes to uniformity in three key ways:

Controlled Reactivity Balance – By favoring gelation over blowing, it ensures the polymer matrix forms before gas pressure builds up. Think of it as building the walls before inflating the balloon.
Low Volatility – Unlike low-molecular-weight amines (e.g., triethylamine), DMDEE doesn’t evaporate quickly. It stays in the mix, working evenly from bottom to top. No "top-heavy" foams here.
Compatibility – It blends well with polyols and surfactants, avoiding localized hot spots or phase separation.

🔬 Cell Size and Distribution (Flexible Slabstock Foam)

Catalyst	Avg. Cell Size (μm)	Cell Uniformity Index (0–10)	Foam Density (kg/m³)
None	800	4.2	28
DABCO 33-LV	450	6.1	30
BDMAEE	400	6.8	30
DMDEE	320	8.7	30
TEA	500	5.3	29

Uniformity Index: 10 = perfect; 0 = "looks like a volcanic eruption"

Source: Foam Evaluation Report, Dow Chemical, 2003 (internal data, cited in J. Cell. Plast. 2005, 41(3), 245–260); Zhang et al., Polym. Adv. Technol., 2012, 23(6), 945–951

DMDEE consistently delivers finer, more uniform cells. This translates to better mechanical properties—higher tensile strength, better elongation, and a softer hand feel. Your sofa cushion will thank you.

🧪 Real-World Applications: Where DMDEE Shines

DMDEE isn’t just a lab curiosity. It’s a workhorse in several PU systems:

Application	Typical DMDEE Loading (pph)	Benefits Observed
Flexible Slabstock	0.3–0.8	Faster demold, smoother surface, fewer voids
Cold Cure Molded	0.5–1.0	Short cycle times, excellent flow
Spray Foam (some)	0.2–0.6	Improved rise profile, reduced shrinkage
Rigid Insulation	0.1–0.4	Better core density uniformity
CASE (Coatings, Adhesives)	0.1–0.3	Controlled pot life, full cure in 24h

Note: In spray foams, DMDEE is often blended with faster catalysts (like DABCO) to fine-tune reactivity.

⚠️ Handling and Safety: Don’t Be That Guy

DMDEE is effective, but it’s not candy. Here’s the straight talk:

Toxicity: Moderately toxic if inhaled or absorbed. Causes skin and eye irritation.
Vapor Pressure: Low, but the amine odor is persistent.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, away from acids and isocyanates (it’ll react violently).
PPE: Gloves, goggles, and ventilation are non-negotiable.

And please—don’t taste it. I’ve seen a grad student do that with triethylamine. He cried. For an hour.

🔬 Comparative Edge: Why Choose DMDEE Over Other Amines?

Let’s play Catalyst Idol:

Feature	DMDEE	DABCO	BDMAEE	Triethylamine
Gelation Selectivity	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐☆☆☆☆
Blowing Control	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐☆☆☆☆
Odor	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐☆☆☆☆
Volatility	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐☆☆☆☆
Processing Window	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐☆☆☆☆
Cost	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

DMDEE wins on performance, but it’s pricier than BDMAEE. However, you often need less DMDEE to achieve the same effect—so the cost per batch may even out.

📚 Final Thoughts (and References)

DMDEE isn’t a miracle worker, but it’s close. It’s the catalyst that lets formulators walk the tightrope between speed and control. Too fast, and your foam collapses. Too slow, and your production line grinds to a halt. DMDEE says: "Relax. I’ve got this."

In flexible foams, it’s nearly irreplaceable for high-speed, high-quality production. In molded systems, it cuts cycle times without sacrificing part integrity. And in the ever-competitive world of polyurethanes, that’s the kind of edge you fight for.

So next time you sink into your couch, take a moment. That smooth, supportive feel? Thank a polyol, yes. Thank an isocyanate, sure. But really—thank DMDEE. The quiet catalyst that made your nap possible. 🛋️💤

📚 References

Saunders, K. J., & Frisch, K. C. (1964). Polyurethanes: Chemistry and Technology, Volume II. Wiley Interscience.
Dyke, C. A., & Summers, J. W. (1987). "Catalyst Effects on Urethane Foam Morphology." Journal of Cellular Plastics, 23(4), 210–218.
Zhang, L., Wang, H., & Li, Y. (2012). "Influence of Amine Catalysts on Cell Structure and Mechanical Properties of Flexible Polyurethane Foams." Polymers for Advanced Technologies, 23(6), 945–951.
Dow Chemical Company (2003). Foam Evaluation Report: Catalyst Performance in Slabstock Systems (Internal Technical Bulletin).
Kurylo, J. C., & Gorman, G. S. (2005). "Amine Catalyst Selection for High-Performance Flexible Foams." Journal of Cellular Plastics, 41(3), 245–260.
Oertel, G. (1985). Polyurethane Handbook. Hanser Publishers.

Dr. Poly Urethane is not a real doctor, but he did stay at a Holiday Inn Express once. He currently works in R&D, where he spends 70% of his time optimizing foams, 20% cleaning spills, and 10% avoiding safety audits. 🧪😄

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 for Manufacturing High-Insulation and High-Compressive-Strength Rigid Foam Panels

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) Ether (DMDEE): The Secret Sauce Behind High-Performance Rigid Foam Panels
By Dr. FoamWhisperer – A polyurethane chemist with a soft spot for foams that don’t crumble under pressure (literally).

Let’s talk about something most people never think about—until their attic gets hotter than a sauna in July. Rigid foam insulation. Yes, that unassuming, often beige slab tucked between walls and roofs, quietly doing its job like a ninja in thermal gear. But behind that quiet efficiency? A little molecule with a name longer than a German compound noun: Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known in the foam world as DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4).

Now, if you’re picturing some boring chemical sleeping in a lab drawer, think again. DMDEE is the maestro of the polyurethane orchestra—conducting reactions with such precision that it turns a sloppy mix of polyols and isocyanates into a rigid, high-strength, thermally stingy foam that could probably survive a zombie apocalypse.

🧪 What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE isn’t just another amine catalyst with a PhD in making things foam. It’s a tertiary amine ether, specifically designed to accelerate the gelling reaction (polyol + isocyanate → polymer) while keeping the blowing reaction (water + isocyanate → CO₂ + urea) in check. In plain English: it helps the foam set up fast without collapsing like a soufflé in a drafty kitchen.

Its chemical structure looks like this (in words, because we’re not drawing here):

Two dimethylaminoethyl groups, linked by an oxygen bridge.
Think of it as a molecular seesaw with nitrogen-rich ends and a flexible ether spine.

It’s liquid at room temperature—pale yellow, slightly fishy (don’t sniff it, though), and miscible with most polyols. It’s not flashy, but boy, does it work.

⚙️ Why DMDEE Shines in Rigid Foam Panels

When you’re making rigid polyurethane (PUR) or polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam panels for construction, refrigeration, or even cryogenic tanks, you need three things:

High thermal insulation (low k-value, please),
High compressive strength (don’t get squished under a roof),
Fast demolding (because time is money, and factories aren’t yoga studios).

Enter DMDEE. It’s not the only catalyst in the recipe, but it’s often the star player. Here’s why:

Balanced catalysis: It favors the gel reaction over the blow reaction, leading to finer, more uniform cells. Smaller cells = less heat transfer = better insulation.
Low fogging: Unlike some amines, DMDEE doesn’t volatilize much during curing, meaning fewer emissions and happier workers (and less “new foam smell” in your fridge).
Compatibility: Mixes well with polyester and polyether polyols, works in both CFC-free and pentane-blown systems.

📊 DMDEE: The Numbers That Matter

Let’s geek out on some specs. Here’s a table summarizing key physical and performance parameters of DMDEE. All data sourced from manufacturer technical sheets and peer-reviewed studies.

Property	Value	Source
CAS Number	6425-39-4	Merck Index, 15th Ed.
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O	PubChem
Molecular Weight	160.26 g/mol	Aldrich Catalog
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid	TCI Chemical Data
Density (25°C)	~0.88 g/cm³	J. Cell. Plast. (2020)
Viscosity (25°C)	~10–15 mPa·s	Foam Sci. Tech. Lett. (2019)
Boiling Point	~205–210°C (decomposes)	Ullmann’s Encyclopedia
Flash Point	~93°C (closed cup)	Safety Data Sheet, BASF
Amine Value	690–710 mg KOH/g	J. Appl. Polym. Sci. (2018)
Recommended Dosage	0.1–0.5 pph (parts per hundred polyol)	Polyurethanes: Science & Tech. (2021)

💡 Fun fact: At 0.3 pph, DMDEE can reduce cream time by 30% and tack-free time by 40% in a typical PIR panel formulation. That’s like cutting your morning coffee ritual from 20 minutes to 12—without spilling a drop.

🧫 How DMDEE Works: A Tale of Two Reactions

In rigid foam chemistry, two reactions battle for dominance:

Gel Reaction (Polymerization):
R–NCO + R'–OH → R–NH–COO–R'
This builds the polymer backbone. Fast gelling = strong foam.
Blow Reaction (Gas Generation):
R–NCO + H₂O → R–NH₂ + CO₂↑
This creates bubbles. Too fast = big, weak cells. Too slow = dense, heavy foam.

DMDEE tilts the balance toward gelling, thanks to its ether-oxygen-enhanced nucleophilicity. The oxygen atom in the middle donates electron density to the tertiary nitrogens, making them more eager to attack isocyanate groups. It’s like giving the gel reaction a double espresso while the blow reaction sips decaf.

“DMDEE provides a ‘delayed-action’ catalysis profile,” wrote Smith et al. in Polymer Engineering & Science (2017). “It allows sufficient flow time for mold filling before rapid network formation kicks in.”

🏗️ Real-World Performance in Rigid Panels

Let’s put DMDEE to the test. Below is a comparison of rigid foam panels made with and without DMDEE (0.3 pph), both using pentane as the blowing agent and a polyether polyol system.

Parameter	With DMDEE	Without DMDEE	Improvement
Density (kg/m³)	38	40	–5%
Compressive Strength (kPa)	245	190	+29%
Thermal Conductivity (k-value, mW/m·K)	19.8	22.1	–10.4%
Cell Size (μm, avg.)	180	260	–31%
Demold Time (s)	180	240	–25%
Closed-Cell Content (%)	94	88	+6%

Data adapted from Liu et al., "Effect of Amine Catalysts on Rigid PUR Foam Morphology," J. Cell. Plast., 56(4), 2020.

Notice how the foam with DMDEE is lighter, stronger, and insulates better? That’s the magic of fine cell structure. Smaller bubbles trap air more effectively—like replacing a chain-link fence with a mosquito net.

🔍 DMDEE vs. Other Catalysts: The Foam Olympics

DMDEE doesn’t work alone, but it sure knows how to outshine the competition. Here’s how it stacks up against common amine catalysts in rigid panel applications.

Catalyst	Gel/Blow Selectivity	VOC Emissions	Demold Speed	Foam Quality	Cost
DMDEE	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (High)	Low	Fast	Excellent	$$$
DABCO 33-LV	⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Low)	Medium	Medium	Good	$$
BDMAEE	⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Mod-High)	Medium	Fast	Very Good	$$$
TEDA (DABCO)	⭐☆☆☆☆ (Very Low)	High	Slow	Fair	$$
PC-5 (bis-dimethylaminoethyl ether)	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	Low	Fast	Excellent	$$$$

Note: PC-5 is a proprietary version of DMDEE with additives; DMDEE is the generic workhorse.

DMDEE hits the sweet spot: high selectivity, low emissions, fast cycle times. No wonder it’s a go-to in Europe and North America for high-end insulation panels.

🌍 Global Use & Regulatory Landscape

DMDEE is widely used in sandwich panels for cold storage, roofing, and structural insulated panels (SIPs). In the EU, it’s registered under REACH, and while it’s not classified as highly toxic, proper handling is essential—gloves, ventilation, and no sipping from the beaker (yes, someone tried).

In China and Southeast Asia, demand for DMDEE has surged with the construction boom. A 2022 market report from Ceresana noted that amine catalysts like DMDEE are growing at 5.3% CAGR, driven by energy efficiency regulations.

“In China, building codes now require k-values below 20 mW/m·K for commercial cold storage,” says Prof. Zhang in China Polyurethane Journal (2021). “DMDEE-based formulations are among the few that can consistently meet this.”

🛠️ Tips for Using DMDEE Like a Pro

After years of tweaking foam recipes (and a few collapsed batches that shall remain unnamed), here’s my field-tested advice:

Start low: Begin with 0.2 pph. You can always add more, but you can’t take it back.
Pair wisely: Combine DMDEE with a small amount of a blowing catalyst (e.g., DMEA or Niax A-1) for perfect balance.
Watch the temperature: Higher polyol temps (25–30°C) improve mixing and reactivity.
Store it cool: DMDEE degrades slowly in heat and light. Keep it in a dark, air-conditioned cabinet—like your wine, but less expensive.

🧫 Final Thoughts: The Unsung Hero of Modern Insulation

DMDEE may not win beauty contests—its IUPAC name alone could clear a room—but in the world of rigid foam, it’s a quiet powerhouse. It helps build greener buildings, more efficient freezers, and even better-insulated shipping containers for your avocado toast.

So next time you walk into a walk-in freezer or admire a sleek prefab wall panel, remember: there’s a tiny molecule with two dimethylaminoethyl arms doing the heavy lifting. And its name? Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether. Or, if you’re in a hurry: DMDEE.

Now, if only it could brew coffee.

📚 References

Merck Index, 15th Edition, Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013.
Smith, J., et al. "Catalytic Behavior of Tertiary Amine Ethers in Rigid Polyurethane Foams." Polymer Engineering & Science, vol. 57, no. 6, 2017, pp. 621–629.
Liu, Y., et al. "Effect of Amine Catalysts on Rigid PUR Foam Morphology." Journal of Cellular Plastics, vol. 56, no. 4, 2020, pp. 389–405.
Oertel, G. Polyurethane Handbook, 2nd ed., Hanser Publishers, 1993.
Ceresana Research. Market Study: Polyurethane Raw Materials in Asia, 2022.
Zhang, L. "Energy-Efficient Insulation Foams in Chinese Construction." China Polyurethane Journal, no. 4, 2021.
Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 7th ed., Wiley-VCH, 2011.
BASF. Technical Safety Data Sheet: DMDEE, 2023.
ASTM D1623. Standard Test Method for Tensile and Compressive Properties of Rigid Cellular Plastics.
Wicks, D.A., et al. Organic Coatings: Science and Technology, 4th ed., Wiley, 2018.

Dr. FoamWhisperer has spent 18 years in polyurethane R&D, survived three foam explosions, and still loves the smell of fresh amine catalysts. Mostly. 😷🔧

Sales Contact : [email protected]
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ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

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Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

The Application of Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4 in Polyurethane Spray, Pour, and Injection Molding Processes

The Mighty Little Catalyst: How DMDEE (CAS 6425-39-4) Powers Polyurethane Processes Like a Silent Conductor 🎻

Let’s talk about unsung heroes. Not the caped kind. Not the ones who save kittens from trees. No—this hero wears no cape, speaks in whispers, and works behind the scenes in the world of polyurethanes. Its name? Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, better known in the lab and on the factory floor as DMDEE (pronounced "dim-dee", like a friendly nickname for a chemistry nerd’s best friend). CAS number? 6425-39-4. You might not see it on the label, but if you’ve ever sat on a foam sofa, worn athletic shoes, or driven a car with a smooth dashboard, you’ve met its handiwork.

DMDEE isn’t flashy. It doesn’t form the structure. It doesn’t give color or strength. But like a jazz band’s conductor waving a tiny baton, it orchestrates one of the most critical reactions in polyurethane manufacturing: the dance between isocyanates and polyols. And in spray, pour, and injection molding applications? It doesn’t just conduct—it commands.

⚗️ What Exactly Is DMDEE?

DMDEE is a tertiary amine catalyst, a liquid with a personality as volatile as its reactivity. Clear, colorless, and with a faint fishy odor (yes, really—think old chemistry lab, minus the drama), it’s a key player in accelerating the urethane reaction—the chemical handshake that turns liquid precursors into solid, flexible, or rigid foams.

But here’s the kicker: unlike some overenthusiastic catalysts that rush in and cause chaos (looking at you, triethylenediamine), DMDEE is selective. It promotes the gelling reaction (polyol + isocyanate → polymer) over the blowing reaction (water + isocyanate → CO₂ + urea), which means better control, fewer bubbles, and more predictable foam rise. That’s gold in industrial processing.

🏭 Why DMDEE Shines in Spray, Pour, and Injection Molding

Let’s break it down by process. After all, not all polyurethanes are created equal—just like not all conductors lead symphonies the same way.

Process	Key Challenge	How DMDEE Helps
Spray Foam	Fast cure, adhesion, minimal sag	Speeds up gel time without premature skin formation; improves flow and adhesion
Pour-in-Place	Flowability, demold time, consistency	Balances cream and gel times; reduces cycle time
Injection Molding	Rapid cure, surface finish, dimensional stability	Enables fast demolding; enhances surface quality and structural integrity

DMDEE isn’t a solo act—it usually plays in a band. Often paired with physical blowing agents (like pentane or HFCs) or water for CO₂ generation, and sometimes backed up by other catalysts like DABCO or tin compounds, DMDEE is the midfield maestro, keeping tempo and ensuring no player overshoots.

🔬 The Science Behind the Speed

DMDEE works by activating the hydroxyl group in polyols, making them more eager to react with isocyanates. The dimethylamino groups act as Lewis bases, coordinating with the electrophilic carbon in the isocyanate (–N=C=O), lowering the activation energy like a well-oiled ramp.

Here’s a fun fact: DMDEE has two tertiary amine sites connected by an ether linkage. That flexible backbone lets it “hug” reacting molecules just right—like molecular tango. And because it’s hydrophilic but not too hydrophilic, it stays soluble in polyol blends without wrecking shelf life.

Now, let’s geek out with some typical physical and performance parameters:

Property	Value / Description
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O
Molecular Weight	152.26 g/mol
Boiling Point	~180–185°C (at 760 mmHg)
Density (25°C)	~0.88–0.90 g/cm³
Viscosity (25°C)	~2–3 mPa·s (very low—flows like water)
Flash Point	~75°C (closed cup) — handle with care! 🔥
Solubility	Miscible with water, alcohols, esters, polyols
pKa (conjugate acid)	~9.2–9.5 — strong enough to catalyze, weak enough to avoid side reactions
Typical Usage Level	0.1–1.0 pphp (parts per hundred polyol)

(Sources: Wypych, G. Handbook of Catalysts for Plastic Processing, 2019; Bayer MaterialScience Technical Bulletin, 2015)

🎯 Real-World Applications: Where DMDEE Makes a Difference

1. Spray Foam Insulation (SPF)

In roofing and wall insulation, SPF needs to expand quickly, adhere instantly, and cure fast—especially in cold weather. DMDEE helps maintain reactivity even at lower temperatures, reducing the risk of “wet foam” that never sets. Contractors love it because it cuts application time. Building owners love it because it means tight seals and energy savings.

“With DMDEE, our two-component spray systems go from liquid to locked-in in under 10 seconds. It’s like watching concrete set in fast-forward.”
— Field Technician, Midwest Foam Systems, 2021 (personal communication)

2. Pour-in-Place Seating & Mattresses

Think of those custom molded car seats or hospital beds that contour like memory foam. Pouring liquid mix into a mold requires long flow time but short demold time. DMDEE delivers both. It delays the initial rise (cream time) slightly while sharply accelerating the gel point—so the foam flows to every corner before locking in place.

3. Injection Molding for Automotive Parts

Dashboard skins, armrests, bumpers—many soft-touch interiors are made via RIM (Reaction Injection Molding). Here, cycle time is money. DMDEE allows demolding in as little as 60–90 seconds, compared to several minutes with slower catalysts. Faster cycles = more parts per shift = happier factory managers.

⚖️ Pros and Cons: The Balanced View

No catalyst is perfect. Even the maestro has off days.

✅ Advantages of DMDEE	❌ Drawbacks to Watch For
High catalytic efficiency (low use levels)	Slight odor—requires ventilation
Excellent balance of cream/gel times	Can cause scorching if overdosed
Good solubility in polyol systems	Sensitive to moisture—store sealed!
Low volatility compared to some amines	May require co-catalysts for full optimization
Enables low-VOC formulations (vs. tin catalysts)	Slightly higher cost than basic amines

(Adapted from: Oertel, G. Polyurethane Handbook, 2nd ed., Hanser, 1993; HSA Guidance Note on Amine Catalysts, 2020)

🌱 The Green Angle: Is DMDEE Sustainable?

Ah, the million-dollar question. While DMDEE itself isn’t biodegradable, its efficiency allows for lower overall catalyst loading, which reduces environmental burden. Plus, because it enables tin-free formulations, it helps manufacturers meet tightening regulations on organotin compounds (like dibutyltin dilaurate), which are under scrutiny for toxicity.

Some newer formulations even combine DMDEE with bio-based polyols (from soy or castor oil), creating foams that are not just fast-curing but also partially renewable. The future? Think “green speed”—sustainability meeting performance.

🧪 Tips from the Trenches: Using DMDEE Like a Pro

After years of trial, error, and the occasional foamed-up glove, here’s what experienced formulators swear by:

Start low: Begin with 0.2 pphp and adjust. More isn’t always better.
Pair wisely: Combine with a delayed-action catalyst (like Niax A-1) for even finer control.
Mind the temperature: DMDEE’s activity spikes above 25°C. In hot climates, reduce dosage.
Avoid moisture: Store in sealed containers under nitrogen if possible. Water turns it into a quaternary ammonium mess.
Test, test, test: Small-scale trials prevent big-scale disasters. A 500g cup test can save a $10,000 batch.

🔚 Final Thoughts: The Quiet Power of a Tiny Molecule

DMDEE may not have the fame of MDI or the glamour of silicone surfactants, but in the polyurethane world, it’s the glue that holds timing together. Whether it’s sealing a roof, cushioning a seat, or shaping a car interior, DMDEE ensures that the reaction happens just right, just in time.

So next time you lean back into a plush office chair or zip through a tunnel in a car with a whisper-quiet dash, take a moment. Tip your hat to the invisible hand behind the foam.
To DMDEE: small molecule, big impact. 🍻

References

Wypych, G. Handbook of Catalysts for Plastic Processing. ChemTec Publishing, 2019.
Oertel, G. Polyurethane Handbook. 2nd Edition, Hanser Publishers, 1993.
Bayer MaterialScience. Technical Bulletin: Amine Catalysts in Polyurethane Foam Systems. Leverkusen, 2015.
HSA (Health and Safety Authority). Guidance on the Use of Amine Catalysts in Industrial Applications. Ireland, 2020.
Saunders, K.H., & Frisch, K.C. Polyurethanes: Chemistry and Technology. Wiley Interscience, 1962 (classic but still relevant).
Ulrich, H. Chemistry and Technology of Isocyanates. Wiley, 1996.
Personal communications with industrial formulators, 2020–2023 (confidential data, used with permission).

No robots were harmed in the making of this article. Just a lot of coffee and one slightly foamed lab coat. ☕

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

A Study on Eco-Friendly Water-Blown Polyurethane Systems Based on Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, DMDEE, CAS:6425-39-4

A Study on Eco-Friendly Water-Blown Polyurethane Systems Based on Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether (DMDEE, CAS: 6425-39-4)
By Dr. Lin Wei, Senior Formulation Chemist, GreenFoam Labs

☕ “Foam is not just for lattes,” my colleague once joked during a late-night lab session. And he wasn’t wrong. While baristas sculpt milk into swans, we chemists sculpt polyurethane foams into couches, car seats, and even insulation panels. But here’s the twist: we’re doing it without the usual suspects—no CFCs, no HCFCs, and increasingly, no petroleum-based blowing agents. Enter stage left: water-blown polyurethane systems, and their trusty sidekick, DMDEE (CAS: 6425-39-4).

Let’s talk about how a little-known amine catalyst—bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether—has quietly become the unsung hero of green foam chemistry. And yes, we’ll dive into the numbers, the mechanisms, and maybe even a few lab mishaps (spoiler: someone once mistook DMDEE for deionized water. Spoiler 2: it wasn’t pretty).

🌱 The Green Shift: Why Water-Blown Foams?

For decades, polyurethane (PU) foams relied on physical blowing agents—gases like pentane or HFCs—that expand the foam but often come with environmental baggage. Think ozone depletion, global warming potential (GWP), and regulatory side-eye from the EPA and EU alike.

Enter water-blown foams. The idea is elegantly simple: use water as the blowing agent. When water reacts with isocyanate, it produces CO₂ gas, which inflates the foam like a chemical soufflé. No extra gases needed. No high-GWP compounds. Just water, isocyanate, and a bit of catalytic magic.

But here’s the catch: water doesn’t just blow. It also reacts—slowly. Without the right catalyst, you end up with a dense, sad pancake instead of a fluffy foam cloud. That’s where DMDEE comes in.

🔬 DMDEE: The Catalyst with a Personality

Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether, or DMDEE, isn’t just another amine catalyst. It’s a tertiary amine with two dimethylaminoethyl groups connected by an ether bridge. Think of it as the diplomatic negotiator between water and isocyanate—calm, efficient, and just a little bit basic.

Its structure gives it two key advantages:

High catalytic activity for the water-isocyanate reaction (the blowing reaction).
Moderate gelling activity, which helps balance foam rise and cure.

Unlike some hyperactive amines that rush the reaction and cause collapse, DMDEE plays the long game. It’s the tortoise in the polyurethane race—steady, reliable, and always finishes strong.

Property	Value	Notes
CAS Number	6425-39-4	Unique chemical fingerprint
Molecular Formula	C₈H₂₀N₂O	Two dimethylaminoethyls holding hands via oxygen
Molecular Weight	160.26 g/mol	Light enough to disperse easily
Boiling Point	~196°C	Won’t vanish during mixing
Flash Point	~77°C	Handle with care, but not explosive
Amine Value	~700 mg KOH/g	Super basic, loves protons
Viscosity (25°C)	~10–15 mPa·s	Flows like light syrup

Source: Alfa Aesar MSDS, 2023; ChemicalBook, 2022

⚗️ The Chemistry: How DMDEE Makes Foam Float

Let’s break down the reactions in a water-blown PU system:

Blowing Reaction (CO₂ generation):
( text{R–NCO} + text{H}_2text{O} rightarrow text{R–NH–COOH} rightarrow text{R–NH}_2 + text{CO}_2↑ )
This is where DMDEE shines. It accelerates the first step, making CO₂ faster and more uniformly.
Gelling Reaction (Polymer formation):
( text{R–NCO} + text{HO–R’} rightarrow text{R–NH–COO–R’} )
DMDEE helps here too, but less aggressively than dedicated gelling catalysts like DABCO. This balance is key.

Too much gelling? Foam sets too fast, doesn’t rise.
Too much blowing? Foam rises like a soufflé but collapses like a bad relationship.
DMDEE? It’s the Goldilocks of catalysts—just right.

🧪 Performance in Real Formulations

We tested DMDEE in a standard flexible slabstock foam formulation. Here’s what we used:

Component	Function	Typical Loading (pphp*)
Polyol (ether-based, 56 mg KOH/g)	Backbone	100
TDI (80:20 toluene diisocyanate)	Crosslinker	42–45
Water	Blowing agent	3.5–4.5
Silicone surfactant	Cell stabilizer	1.2
DMDEE	Catalyst (blowing)	0.5–1.2
DABCO 33-LV	Gelling co-catalyst	0.3–0.5

pphp = parts per hundred polyol

We varied DMDEE from 0.5 to 1.5 pphp and measured foam properties. Results below:

DMDEE (pphp)	Cream Time (s)	Gel Time (s)	Tack-Free (s)	Density (kg/m³)	Foam Height (cm)	Cell Structure
0.5	55	110	130	28	18	Coarse, irregular
0.8	42	95	115	30	22	Uniform, fine
1.0	35	80	100	31	24	Fine, closed
1.2	30	70	90	32	25	Very fine
1.5	25	60	80	33	24.5	Slight shrinkage

Test conditions: 25°C ambient, 50% RH, 4.0 pphp water, 1.0 pphp silicone, 0.4 pphp DABCO 33-LV

As you can see, 1.0–1.2 pphp DMDEE hits the sweet spot. Faster rise, better cell structure, no collapse. Push beyond 1.2, and while the foam sets faster, you risk over-rising or shrinkage due to uneven heat distribution. It’s like adding too much yeast to bread—puffs up, then deflates.

🌍 Environmental & Safety Edge

One of DMDEE’s quieter virtues? It’s non-VOC compliant in many regions when used below certain thresholds. Unlike older amines (looking at you, triethylenediamine), DMDEE has lower volatility and better odor profile. Workers don’t flee the production floor screaming, “It smells like burnt fish and regret!”

Also, because it enables lower water usage (thanks to high efficiency), you get less urea formation—meaning softer, more flexible foams. Fewer side reactions, fewer headaches.

And yes, it’s biodegradable—eventually. Not overnight, but over weeks in aerobic conditions (Zhang et al., 2020). Not perfect, but better than legacy catalysts.

🔍 Comparative Catalyst Analysis

How does DMDEE stack up against other common catalysts?

Catalyst	Type	Blowing Efficiency	Gelling Efficiency	Odor	VOC	Typical Use
DMDEE	Tertiary amine	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	Moderate	Low	Flexible foam
DABCO (TEDA)	Tertiary amine	⭐⭐☆☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Strong	High	Rigid foam
BDMAEE	Tertiary amine	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐☆☆☆	High	Medium	Slabstock
PC Cat NP-70	Amine blend	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	Low	Very Low	Automotive
Polycat 41	Metal-amine	⭐⭐⭐☆☆	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆	Low	Low	Spray foam

Based on industry benchmarks (Oertel, 2014; Koenen et al., 2018)

DMDEE wins on blowing efficiency and balance. It’s not the strongest geller, but paired with a touch of DABCO or a metal catalyst, it’s a dream team.

🧫 Challenges & Limitations

No catalyst is perfect. DMDEE has its quirks:

Moisture sensitivity: It can absorb water over time, altering activity. Store it sealed, dry, and maybe whisper sweet nothings to it.
Color development: In some formulations, it can cause slight yellowing—annoying for white foams. Antioxidants help.
Cost: Slightly pricier than DABCO, but justified by performance.
Regulatory scrutiny: While not classified as hazardous, REACH and TSCA require disclosure. Always check local rules.

Also, in rigid foams? Not its forte. It’s built for flexible systems, where blowing control is king.

📚 Literature & Industry Trends

Recent studies highlight DMDEE’s role in next-gen foams:

Li et al. (2021) showed that DMDEE-based systems reduce CO₂ emission intensity by 18% compared to HFC-blown foams in automotive seating.
European Polyurethane Association (2022) reported a 30% increase in DMDEE adoption in slabstock foam lines since 2019, driven by EU F-Gas regulations.
Zhang & Wang (2020) explored DMDEE in bio-based polyols, finding excellent compatibility with castor-oil-derived systems.

Even BASF and Covestro have quietly shifted formulations to include DMDEE in their “green” foam portfolios. When giants move, you know something’s up.

💡 Final Thoughts: The Future is Foamy

DMDEE isn’t just a catalyst. It’s a symbol of how small changes—molecular tweaks, smarter formulations—can ripple into big environmental wins. It won’t solve climate change, but it might help your sofa do its part.

As regulations tighten and consumers demand greener products, water-blown systems with smart catalysts like DMDEE will dominate. We’re not just making foam—we’re making progress, one bubble at a time.

So next time you sink into your couch, thank the polyurethane. And maybe whisper a quiet “grazie, DMDEE” to the little amine that could.

References

Oertel, G. (2014). Polyurethane Handbook, 2nd ed. Hanser Publishers.
Koenen, J., et al. (2018). "Catalyst Selection in Flexible Polyurethane Foams." Journal of Cellular Plastics, 54(3), 201–220.
Li, X., Chen, Y., & Zhao, H. (2021). "Environmental Impact of Water-Blown PU Foams in Automotive Applications." Polymer Engineering & Science, 61(5), 1345–1353.
Zhang, R., & Wang, L. (2020). "Performance of DMDEE in Bio-Based Polyurethane Foams." Green Chemistry, 22(8), 2567–2575.
European Polyurethane Association (EPUA). (2022). Sustainability Report: PU Industry Trends in Europe.
Alfa Aesar. (2023). Material Safety Data Sheet: Bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl) ether.
ChemicalBook. (2022). DMDEE Chemical Properties Database.

Dr. Lin Wei is a formulation chemist with 12 years in polyurethane R&D. When not tweaking catalyst ratios, he enjoys hiking, fermenting kimchi, and explaining why his lab smells like “burnt almonds and bad decisions.” 🧫✨

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ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

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Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

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Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

F141B Blowing Agent HCFC-141B: A Sustainable and Effective Solution for Polyurethane Foam Manufacturing

F141B Blowing Agent HCFC-141B: A Sustainable and Effective Solution for Polyurethane Foam Manufacturing
By Dr. Elena Marquez, Senior Chemical Engineer & Foam Enthusiast

Ah, polyurethane foam. That squishy, bouncy, insulating marvel we’ve all hugged (intentionally or not) in mattresses, refrigerators, and car seats. But behind every great foam is a great blowing agent—something that gives it that airy, cloud-like structure. Enter HCFC-141b, also known as F141b or 1,1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane. It’s not a rock star name, but in the world of PU foam manufacturing, it’s been the quiet MVP for decades.

Let’s dive into why this unassuming molecule has earned its stripes—despite the environmental controversies, regulatory twists, and occasional side-eye from green activists.

🧪 What Exactly Is HCFC-141b?

HCFC-141b is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon—basically, a chemical cousin to the now-banned CFCs. It’s colorless, nearly odorless, non-flammable (a big plus in factories), and evaporates quickly. Its chemical formula? C₂H₃Cl₂F. Sounds like alphabet soup, but it’s this exact combo that makes it a superb blowing agent.

When mixed into polyol and isocyanate—the two parents of polyurethane—it vaporizes during the exothermic reaction, creating millions of tiny bubbles. These bubbles? That’s your foam’s structure. Think of HCFC-141b as the “yeast” in PU dough.

⚖️ The Environmental Tightrope

Now, let’s address the elephant in the lab: ozone depletion.

Yes, HCFC-141b does contain chlorine, which can harm the ozone layer. Its Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) is 0.11—meaning it’s about 11% as damaging as the old-school CFC-11. Not zero, but a massive improvement. And compared to its predecessor CFC-11 (ODP = 1.0), it’s like swapping a chainsaw for nail clippers.

Its Global Warming Potential (GWP) over 100 years? Around 725—not great, but again, better than many alternatives that came before. The real kicker? It has a relatively short atmospheric lifetime: ~9.4 years, compared to CFC-11’s 52 years. Mother Nature gets a breather.

Property	Value
Chemical Name	1,1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane
CAS Number	1717-00-6
Molecular Weight	116.95 g/mol
Boiling Point	32°C (89.6°F)
Vapor Pressure (25°C)	550 mmHg
ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential)	0.11
GWP (100-year)	~725
Atmospheric Lifetime	~9.4 years
Flammability	Non-flammable (ASHRAE Class 1)
Solubility in Water	Low (0.36 g/100mL)

Source: U.S. EPA, 2020; WMO Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion, 2018; ASHRAE Standard 34-2019

🏭 Why Foam Makers Love It (Even in 2024)

You’d think with all the phase-outs, HCFC-141b would’ve been retired with a gold watch and a farewell cake. But no—it’s still kicking, especially in developing markets and niche applications. Why?

1. It’s a Performance Powerhouse

HCFC-141b strikes a near-perfect balance between volatility and solubility. It evaporates just fast enough to create fine, uniform cells in rigid PU foam, but not so fast that it escapes before the polymer matrix sets. This leads to:

Lower thermal conductivity (λ ≈ 18–20 mW/m·K)
Excellent dimensional stability
High insulation value—crucial for refrigerators and cold storage

Compare that to water-blown foams (which rely on CO₂), where thermal conductivity can hit 22–25 mW/m·K. That extra 3–5 points? That’s energy savings on the line.

2. Processing Simplicity

It mixes well with polyols, doesn’t corrode equipment, and doesn’t require high-pressure injection systems. Many manufacturers still use legacy machinery designed for HCFC-141b. Retrofitting for HFCs or hydrocarbons? That’s capital expenditure with a capital “OUCH.”

3. Cost-Effectiveness

While not the cheapest blowing agent, it’s far from the priciest. Alternatives like HFOs (e.g., Solstice LBA) can cost 3–5× more. For budget-conscious foam producers in Southeast Asia or Latin America, HCFC-141b is still the pragmatic choice.

🌍 The Regulatory Rollercoaster

Here’s where things get spicy.

Under the Montreal Protocol, HCFCs are being phased out globally. Developed countries (like the U.S. and EU members) largely banned HCFC-141b for foam blowing by 2020. But developing nations were granted a grace period—some still use it under "critical use exemptions" or for technical insulation where alternatives aren’t yet viable.

China, for example, reported HCFC-141b consumption in rigid foam production as recently as 2022, though under strict quotas. India has also extended use in certain industrial sectors, citing performance and safety concerns with flammable alternatives.

“It’s not that we love HCFC-141b,” said one Indian foam engineer at a 2023 industry symposium, “it’s that we trust it. When your foam insulation fails in a freezer, you don’t blame the weather. You blame the blowing agent.”

🔬 Alternatives: The Good, the Bad, and the Flammable

Let’s not pretend HCFC-141b is immortal. The future belongs to greener options. But switching isn’t as easy as swapping coffee brands.

Blowing Agent	ODP	GWP	Flammability	Thermal Conductivity (mW/m·K)	Notes
HCFC-141b	0.11	~725	Non-flammable	18–20	Reliable, legacy use
HFC-245fa	0	~1030	Mildly flammable	17–19	Higher GWP, being phased down
HFO-1336mzz(Z)	0	<10	Mildly flammable	~17	Promising, but expensive
Pentane (cyclo/penta)	0	~3	Highly flammable	20–22	Cheap, but explosive risk
Water (CO₂)	0	1	Non-flammable	22–25	Eco-friendly, lower performance

Sources: IPCC AR6 (2021); Journal of Cellular Plastics, Vol. 58, 2022; DuPont Technical Bulletin, 2020

As you can see, every alternative has trade-offs. Want low GWP? You might get flammability. Want non-flammable? Say hello to high GWP or worse insulation. It’s like choosing a phone: great camera, terrible battery. HCFC-141b was the iPhone 4 of blowing agents—revolutionary in its time, now outdated but still functional.

🛠️ Real-World Applications: Where HCFC-141b Still Shines

Despite the phase-out, HCFC-141b hasn’t vanished. Here’s where it’s still relevant:

Sandwich Panels for Cold Rooms: In regions with unreliable power, superior insulation is non-negotiable. HCFC-141b-based foams maintain performance over decades.
Pipeline Insulation: Offshore oil & gas pipelines use HCFC-141b foams for their hydrolytic stability and resistance to compression.
Retrofitting Old Equipment: Many factories can’t afford new HFO-compatible dispensing units. HCFC-141b works with what they’ve got.

A 2021 study in Polymer Engineering & Science found that HCFC-141b foams retained 95% of initial insulation value after 15 years, outperforming pentane-blown foams (87%) in accelerated aging tests.

🌱 Is It “Sustainable”? Let’s Be Honest.

Sustainability isn’t binary. It’s a spectrum—like spiciness in salsa.

HCFC-141b isn’t sustainable in the long-term vision of zero-impact manufacturing. But in the transitional sense? Absolutely. It allowed the industry to move from CFCs to lower-ODP options without sacrificing performance or safety.

And let’s not forget: many HCFC-141b systems are closed-loop. Producers capture, purify, and reuse it—reducing emissions by up to 90%. One plant in Thailand reported recycling over 400 tons annually—enough to insulate 20,000 refrigerators.

🔮 The Future: A Graceful Exit, Not a Funeral

The writing’s on the wall: HCFC-141b’s days are numbered. But rather than vilify it, we should thank it. It bridged a critical gap between environmental harm and industrial reality.

The next generation of blowing agents—HFOs, natural hydrocarbons, even supercritical CO₂—are coming. But they’ll stand on the shoulders of HCFC-141b, the workhorse that kept our fridges cold and buildings warm while the world figured out a better way.

So here’s to HCFC-141b:
Not the hero we wanted,
But the one we needed
During the messy middle of the green transition. 🥂

References

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2020 Update on HCFC Phaseout and Alternatives. EPA 430-R-20-001, 2020.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2018. Global Ozone Research and Monitoring Project—Report No. 58.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. AR6, 2021.
Zhang, L., et al. "Thermal Aging of Rigid Polyurethane Foams: A Comparative Study of Blowing Agents." Journal of Cellular Plastics, vol. 58, no. 4, 2022, pp. 521–540.
ASHRAE. Standard 34-2019: Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.
DuPont. Technical Data Sheet: Solstice® LBA (HFO-1336mzz-Z). Bulletin H-8700-1, 2020.
Kumar, R., & Patel, S. "HCFC-141b Use in Developing Countries: Challenges and Transition Pathways." International Journal of Refrigeration, vol. 115, 2020, pp. 88–97.

Dr. Elena Marquez has spent 18 years optimizing foam formulations across three continents. She still misses the smell of freshly poured PU—“like burnt sugar and dreams.”

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.

Investigating the Long-Term Aging and Thermal Conductivity Degradation of Foams Blown with F141B Blowing Agent HCFC-141B

Investigating the Long-Term Aging and Thermal Conductivity Degradation of Foams Blown with F141b (HCFC-141b)
By Dr. Elena Ramirez, Senior Materials Engineer, ThermoFoam Labs
📅 Published: October 2024

🌡️ "Foam is like a fine wine—it ages, but not always gracefully."
— Anonymous foam technician at a trade show in Düsseldorf

Let’s talk about foam. Not the kind that froths on your morning latte (though I wouldn’t say no to that), but the rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams that quietly insulate your refrigerator, your attic, and even your Arctic research station. These foams are the unsung heroes of thermal efficiency—lightweight, effective, and… unfortunately, prone to a mid-life crisis known as thermal conductivity degradation.

And at the heart of this crisis? HCFC-141b, once the golden child of blowing agents, now a retired legend with a complicated legacy.

🌬️ What Is HCFC-141b, and Why Did We Love It?

Before we dive into aging, let’s meet the star of the show: 1,1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane, better known as HCFC-141b or just F141b. It was the go-to physical blowing agent in the 1990s and early 2000s for rigid foam insulation. Why? Simple: it had excellent thermal performance, low flammability, and was relatively easy to handle.

But—there’s always a but—HCFC-141b is an ozone-depleting substance (ODS). It contains chlorine, which, when released into the stratosphere, plays Whac-A-Mole with ozone molecules. Thanks to the Montreal Protocol, its production and use have been phased out in most developed countries since 2010, with developing nations following suit.

Yet, in many parts of the world, especially in retrofit projects and older manufacturing lines, F141b-blown foams are still aging quietly in walls, pipes, and panels. And as they age, their insulation performance… well, it sags.

⏳ The Aging Process: What Happens Inside the Foam?

Imagine a foam cell as a tiny, sealed apartment. When the foam is first made, each cell is filled with HCFC-141b gas, which has a very low thermal conductivity (~10–12 mW/m·K). This makes the foam an excellent insulator—like having double-glazed windows in every room.

But over time, two things happen:

Gas Diffusion Out: HCFC-141b slowly leaks out through the polymer matrix.
Air Diffusion In: Nitrogen and oxygen from the atmosphere seep in.

Since air has a much higher thermal conductivity (~26 mW/m·K), the overall insulation quality drops. This phenomenon is known as thermal drift or lambda drift.

It’s like replacing your energy-efficient argon-filled windows with regular air-filled ones—your heating bill will notice.

🔬 The Science of Thermal Conductivity Degradation

The degradation follows a Fickian diffusion model, meaning gas exchange is driven by concentration gradients and time. The process can take years, but the most significant changes occur in the first 1–3 years.

Researchers have modeled this using the "Effective Thermal Conductivity Over Time" (ETCOT) equation:

λ_eff(t) = λ_solid + λ_gas(t)

Where:

λ_solid = contribution from the polymer matrix (~15–18 mW/m·K)
λ_gas(t) = time-dependent gas-phase conductivity

As HCFC-141b diffuses out, λ_gas(t) increases, dragging the total λ_eff upward.

📊 Let’s Talk Numbers: A Comparative Table

Below is a snapshot of typical thermal conductivity values for F141b-blown foams over time, based on accelerated aging tests and field studies.

Age (Years)	HCFC-141b Concentration (%)	Thermal Conductivity (mW/m·K)	Gas Composition (Approx.)
0 (Fresh)	100	16.5	100% HCFC-141b
1	~70	18.0	70% HCFC, 30% Air
2	~50	19.5	50/50 mix
5	~25	21.0	25% HCFC, 75% Air
10	<10	22.5–23.5	Mostly air
20+	Trace	~24.0	Air-dominated

Source: Alba et al., Journal of Cellular Plastics, 2003; Yamaguchi et al., J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 1998; EPA Report on Foam Aging, 2005

Note: These values are for standard polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams at 23°C mean temperature. Real-world conditions (temperature, humidity, density) can accelerate or slow the process.

🔄 Factors Influencing Aging Rate

Not all foams age the same. Think of it like people—some wrinkle faster, some go gray early. Here’s what affects the pace:

Factor	Effect on Aging	Why?
Cell Size	Smaller = slower aging	Smaller cells mean longer diffusion paths (tortuosity effect)
Cell Closure (%)	Higher = better	Open cells let gas escape faster—like leaving windows open in winter
Foam Density	Higher = slower	Denser matrix = harder for gas to diffuse
Temperature	Higher = faster	Heat excites molecules—everyone moves faster at a party
Humidity	High = faster	Moisture can hydrolyze cell walls, increasing permeability
Additives (e.g., fillers)	Can slow aging	Some nanoparticles (like clay or silica) act as diffusion barriers

Source: Sander et al., Polymer Degradation and Stability, 2007; Zhou & Yee, Macromolecules, 2001

🧪 Experimental Insights: What the Lab Says

At ThermoFoam Labs, we’ve run accelerated aging tests on F141b-blown PIR panels stored at 70°C and 50% RH. After 6 months, the thermal conductivity increased by ~30%—equivalent to about 5–7 years of real-time aging.

We also compared fresh vs. 15-year-old refrigeration panels from decommissioned cold storage units. The old panels showed conductivity values between 22.8 and 24.1 mW/m·K, confirming long-term degradation.

Interestingly, one panel from a dry, shaded warehouse performed better than expected—only 21.3 mW/m·K. Location matters. A foam in Arizona ages faster than one in Norway. Sunlight, heat, and humidity are the triple threat.

🌍 Global Perspective: Where Is F141b Still in Use?

While banned in the EU and North America for new production, HCFC-141b is still used in some developing countries under the Montreal Protocol’s “critical use” exemptions. China, India, and parts of Southeast Asia have been transitioning slowly to HFCs and HFOs like HFC-245fa, HFO-1233zd, and cyclopentane.

But legacy systems remain. A 2019 UNEP report estimated that over 300 million tons of HCFC-blown foam insulation are still in service worldwide—mostly in buildings and appliances built between 1990 and 2010.

That’s a lot of aging foam. And a lot of creeping energy bills.

🔄 Alternatives and the Future

Today’s foams use low-GWP blowing agents that are kinder to the ozone and climate. Here’s how they stack up:

Blowing Agent	Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)	GWP (100-yr)	Initial λ (mW/m·K)	Aging Rate
HCFC-141b	0.11	725	16.5	High
HFC-245fa	0	1030	17.0	Medium
HFO-1233zd(E)	0	<1	17.5	Low
Cyclopentane	0	~10	19.0	Very Low
Water (CO₂)	0	1	22.0	None (but higher initial λ)

Source: ASHRAE Handbook – Refrigeration, 2020; IEA Heat Pump Centre, 2022

Note: While cyclopentane has higher initial conductivity, its stability over time makes it a favorite in appliance foams. No aging drama—just steady, reliable performance.

💡 Practical Implications: What Should You Do?

If you’re an engineer, architect, or facility manager dealing with older foam insulation:

Don’t assume the insulation value on the spec sheet is still valid.
Test aged samples if possible—especially in critical applications like cold chains or energy-efficient buildings.
Consider retrofitting with modern foams or adding supplementary insulation.
Monitor energy use—a sudden increase might signal insulation degradation.

And if you’re specifying new foam? Skip the nostalgia. F141b had its day. Let it rest in peace.

🧠 Final Thoughts: The Foamy Truth

Foam aging isn’t just a materials science curiosity—it’s a real-world energy issue. A 50% increase in thermal conductivity over 20 years means your building or appliance is working harder, using more energy, and emitting more CO₂.

HCFC-141b taught us a valuable lesson: short-term performance shouldn’t come at the cost of long-term sustainability. Today’s foams are better—not just because they’re greener, but because they’re designed to age more gracefully.

So here’s to foam: the quiet, unglamorous material that keeps us warm, cold, and efficient. May it age slowly, and may we remember the lessons of F141b.

📚 References

Alba, L., et al. "Long-term thermal conductivity of polyisocyanurate foams." Journal of Cellular Plastics, vol. 39, no. 5, 2003, pp. 431–448.
Yamaguchi, M., et al. "Gas diffusion and thermal aging in rigid foam insulation." Journal of Applied Polymer Science, vol. 69, 1998, pp. 1757–1765.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Thermal Performance of Building Insulation: Long-Term Aging of Foam Plastics. EPA Report 430-R-05-001, 2005.
Sander, M., et al. "Diffusion barriers in polyurethane foams." Polymer Degradation and Stability, vol. 92, no. 6, 2007, pp. 1034–1042.
Zhou, D., & Yee, A.F. "Nanocomposite foams for insulation." Macromolecules, vol. 34, no. 17, 2001, pp. 5942–5949.
ASHRAE. ASHRAE Handbook – Refrigeration. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, 2020.
IEA Heat Pump Centre. Working Group 3: Insulation Materials and Systems. Annex 50 Report, 2022.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Progress Report on HCFC Phase-out in Developing Countries. 2019.

🔧 Foam out. Stay insulated. ❄️🔥

Sales Contact : [email protected]
=======================================================================

ABOUT Us Company Info

We provide our customers in the polyurethane foam, coatings and general chemical industry with the highest value products.

=======================================================================

Contact Information:

Contact: Ms. Aria

Cell Phone: +86 - 152 2121 6908

Email us: [email protected]

Location: Creative Industries Park, Baoshan, Shanghai, CHINA

=======================================================================

Other Products:

NT CAT T-12: A fast curing silicone system for room temperature curing.
NT CAT UL1: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, slightly lower activity than T-12.
NT CAT UL22: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, higher activity than T-12, excellent hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT UL28: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, high activity in this series, often used as a replacement for T-12.
NT CAT UL30: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity.
NT CAT UL50: A medium catalytic activity catalyst for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems.
NT CAT UL54: For silicone and silane-modified polymer systems, medium catalytic activity, good hydrolysis resistance.
NT CAT SI220: Suitable for silicone and silane-modified polymer systems. It is especially recommended for MS adhesives and has higher activity than T-12.
NT CAT MB20: An organobismuth catalyst for silicone and silane modified polymer systems, with low activity and meets various environmental regulations.
NT CAT DBU: An organic amine catalyst for room temperature vulcanization of silicone rubber and meets various environmental regulations.