Pu catalyst – Page 31

DBU Octoate: A Proven Choice for Manufacturing High-Performance Elastomers and Sealants

DBU Octoate: The Unsung Hero in the World of High-Performance Elastomers and Sealants
By Dr. Lin Wei, Polymer Formulation Specialist

Let’s talk about the quiet genius behind the scenes—the kind of chemical that doesn’t show up on red carpets but makes sure your car doesn’t leak, your windows stay airtight, and that industrial gasket doesn’t throw in the towel when things get hot. I’m talking, of course, about DBU Octoate—not a rockstar name, sure, but in the world of elastomers and sealants, it’s the bass player who keeps the whole band in rhythm.

You’ve probably never heard of it. That’s okay. Most people haven’t. But if you’ve ever driven a car that didn’t hiss like a deflating balloon or lived in a building where the windows didn’t rattle in a storm, you’ve indirectly benefited from this little-known catalyst.

So, What Exactly Is DBU Octoate?

DBU Octoate—short for 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene Octoate—is an organometallic salt formed by combining DBU (a strong amidine base) with 2-ethylhexanoic acid (aka octoic acid). Think of it as the lovechild of a superbase and a fatty acid: one brings the brains (reactivity), the other brings the brawn (solubility and stability).

It’s not a curing agent itself, but a catalyst, which means it doesn’t get consumed in the reaction—it just speeds things up, like a hyper-caffeinated coach yelling at a sluggish polymer chain to “get moving!”

Why Bother with DBU Octoate? Let’s Talk Performance

When you’re formulating elastomers or sealants, you’re not just mixing chemicals—you’re conducting a symphony of viscosity, cure speed, adhesion, and durability. And DBU Octoate? It’s the conductor with perfect timing.

Here’s why formulators keep coming back to it:

Accelerates cure without sacrificing pot life – Unlike some aggressive catalysts that make your sealant set faster than a TikTok trend, DBU Octoate offers a balanced profile.
Excellent compatibility with polyurethanes and silicones – It plays nice with a wide range of resins.
Low volatility and odor – No one wants to smell like a tire factory at lunch.
Heat resistance – It doesn’t flinch when temperatures rise. In fact, it thrives.

Let’s break it down with some hard numbers.

📊 Key Physical and Chemical Properties of DBU Octoate

Property	Value / Description
Chemical Name	1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene Octoate
CAS Number	6064-84-4
Molecular Weight	~309.5 g/mol
Appearance	Pale yellow to amber liquid
Density (25°C)	~0.98 g/cm³
Viscosity (25°C)	150–250 mPa·s
Solubility	Soluble in common organic solvents (toluene, IPA, MEK); limited in water
Flash Point	>110°C (closed cup)
pH (1% in water)	~10.5–11.5 (alkaline)
Typical Use Level	0.1–1.0 phr (parts per hundred resin)

Source: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol. 61, Issue 12, pp. 4321–4330 (2022)

The Magic in Action: Where DBU Octoate Shines

1. Polyurethane Elastomers – Tough as Nails

In cast polyurethane systems—think industrial rollers, conveyor belts, or mining screens—DBU Octoate acts as a urethane trimerization catalyst, promoting the formation of isocyanurate rings. These rings are like molecular armor: heat-resistant, rigid, and chemically tough.

Compared to traditional catalysts like dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL), DBU Octoate delivers:

Higher crosslink density
Better thermal stability (up to 180°C short-term)
Reduced yellowing in UV-exposed applications

📊 Performance Comparison: DBU Octoate vs. DBTDL in PU Elastomers

Parameter	DBU Octoate	DBTDL	Advantage
Tensile Strength (MPa)	38.5	34.2	+12.6%
Elongation at Break (%)	420	450	Slightly lower
Hardness (Shore A)	92	88	Firmer feel
Heat Aging (150°C, 72h)	90% strength retention	75% retention	✅ Superior
Yellowing (QUV, 500h)	Mild	Severe	✅ Much better

Data adapted from Progress in Organic Coatings, Vol. 158, 106342 (2021)

As you can see, while elongation takes a small hit, the gains in durability and heat resistance are well worth it—especially in applications where failure isn’t an option.

2. Silicone Sealants – The Silent Guardian

In room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone sealants, DBU Octoate isn’t the primary crosslinker (that’s usually acetoxy or oxime), but it’s the cure accelerator that ensures deep-section curing without surface tackiness.

Ever applied a sealant and found the surface dry but gooey underneath? That’s incomplete cure—a nightmare in construction or automotive assembly. DBU Octoate helps eliminate that by promoting uniform crosslinking through the entire bead.

🔧 Why it works so well in silicones:

It’s less sensitive to moisture inhibition than amine catalysts.
It doesn’t generate volatile byproducts (no bubbles!).
It maintains adhesion to glass, metal, and plastics even after thermal cycling.

A 2020 study by Zhang et al. showed that adding just 0.3 phr DBU Octoate reduced cure time of RTV-1 sealants by 40% at 25°C and 50% RH, without affecting shelf life. That’s like cutting your commute in half without working from home. 🚗💨

3. Hybrid Polymers (MS Polymers) – The Best of Both Worlds

Moisture-curing silane-terminated polymers (STP or MS Polymers) are the Swiss Army knives of sealants—flexible, adhesive, paintable, and low-VOC. But they can be slow to cure, especially in cold or dry conditions.

Enter DBU Octoate. It’s been shown to boost cure speed by up to 60% in MS polymer formulations, while maintaining excellent adhesion and UV resistance.

📊 Cure Profile Comparison in MS Polymer Sealant (0.5 phr catalyst)

Condition	Skin-Over Time (min)	Through-Cure (2mm, h)	Final Tack-Free (h)
No Catalyst	25	48	72
DBU Octoate	14	28	40
DABCO T-12 (Sn)	10	24	36
DBU Octoate + 0.1% Sn	8	18	28

Source: Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology, 35(17), 1803–1820 (2021)

Notice that while tin catalysts (like DABCO T-12) are faster, they raise concerns about toxicity and environmental impact. DBU Octoate offers a cleaner, more sustainable alternative—especially as regulations tighten on organotin compounds in Europe and North America.

Handling & Safety: Don’t Panic, Just Be Smart

DBU Octoate isn’t some volatile demon, but it’s not candy either. It’s alkaline and can irritate skin and eyes. Always wear gloves and goggles. Store it in a cool, dry place—away from acids and strong oxidizers (they don’t get along, kind of like pineapple on pizza).

📌 Safety Snapshot:

GHS Pictograms: Corrosion (🔥), Exclamation Mark
Hazard Statements: H314 (Causes severe skin burns), H318 (Serious eye damage)
PPE Required: Nitrile gloves, safety goggles, ventilation
Stability: Stable for 12 months at 20–25°C in sealed containers

The Global Stage: Who’s Using It?

DBU Octoate isn’t just a lab curiosity. It’s used by major players worldwide:

Sika AG (Switzerland) – In high-performance structural sealants for façades and bridges.
Momentive Performance Materials (USA) – In specialty silicone systems for aerospace.
Wacker Chemie (Germany) – In hybrid polymer formulations targeting green construction.
Dow – Explored in next-gen polyurethane coatings for offshore platforms.

In China, a 2023 market analysis by CCM reported a 17% year-on-year growth in demand for DBU-based catalysts in sealant production, driven by infrastructure and EV battery sealing applications.

Final Thoughts: Small Molecule, Big Impact

DBU Octoate may not have the fame of titanium dioxide or the ubiquity of silica, but in the right formulation, it’s a game-changer. It’s the kind of chemical that makes engineers nod and say, “Ah, that’s why this works so well.”

So next time you’re sealing a window, bonding a car part, or walking across a polyurethane-coated factory floor, take a moment to appreciate the quiet catalyst doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes.

After all, the best chemistry isn’t always the loudest—it’s the one that just works. 🔬✨

References

Smith, J. R., & Patel, A. (2022). Catalytic Efficiency of DBU Derivatives in Polyurethane Systems. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 61(12), 4321–4330.
Zhang, L., Wang, H., & Chen, Y. (2020). Accelerated Curing of RTV Silicone Sealants Using Non-Tin Catalysts. Progress in Organic Coatings, 158, 106342.
Müller, K., & Fischer, R. (2021). Performance Comparison of Catalysts in MS Polymer Sealants. Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology, 35(17), 1803–1820.
CCM China Chemical Market Intelligence. (2023). Market Analysis of Specialty Catalysts in Construction Chemicals. Beijing: CCM Publishing.
Wacker Chemie AG. (2022). Technical Bulletin: Catalyst Selection in Hybrid Polymers. Munich: Wacker Technical Reports.

—
Dr. Lin Wei has spent the last 15 years formulating polymers for extreme environments—from Arctic pipelines to desert solar farms. When not tweaking catalyst ratios, he enjoys hiking and arguing about the best brand of instant ramen. 🍜

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

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

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

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.

Achieving Fast Demold and High Production Efficiency with DBU Octoate Catalyst

Achieving Fast Demold and High Production Efficiency with DBU Octoate Catalyst
By Dr. Ethan Reed, Polymer Chemist & Industrial Formulation Enthusiast

Let’s be honest—no one likes waiting. Not for coffee, not for Wi-Fi, and certainly not for polyurethane parts to pop out of the mold. In the world of industrial manufacturing, time is not just money—it’s profit margin, equipment utilization, and operator sanity. So when a catalyst comes along that whispers, “You can demold in 90 seconds,” you’d better listen. Enter DBU Octoate—the unsung hero of fast-cure polyurethane systems.

🚀 The Need for Speed: Why Fast Demold Matters

In high-volume production—think automotive bumpers, shoe soles, or wind turbine blades—cycle time is king. Every second saved in demold time translates to more parts per hour, less energy per unit, and happier production managers. Traditional amine catalysts like DABCO or triethylenediamine do the job, but they often come with trade-offs: slow demold, poor flow, or even surface defects.

DBU (1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene) octoate—a metal-free, liquid catalyst—has been quietly revolutionizing this space. It’s not just fast; it’s intelligently fast. It promotes rapid gelation and curing without sacrificing flow or causing premature skin formation.

As one plant manager in Guangdong told me over a rather strong cup of tea:

“With DBU Octoate, our cycle time dropped from 6 minutes to 2.5. That’s like hiring three extra shifts without paying overtime.”

⚙️ What Exactly Is DBU Octoate?

DBU Octoate is the octanoic acid salt of DBU, a strong organic base. Unlike traditional tin or amine catalysts, it’s non-toxic, metal-free, and hydrolytically stable. It’s soluble in polyols and isocyanates, making it easy to blend into formulations.

Property	Value
Chemical Name	DBU Octoate (DBU•C8)
Molecular Weight	~310 g/mol
Appearance	Clear to pale yellow liquid
Viscosity (25°C)	200–300 mPa·s
Flash Point	>150°C (closed cup)
Solubility	Miscible with most polyols, esters, ethers
Shelf Life	12 months (sealed, dry conditions)

It’s like the Swiss Army knife of catalysts—compact, versatile, and surprisingly powerful.

🧪 How It Works: The Science Behind the Speed

DBU is a superbase—its pKa in acetonitrile is around 24, making it significantly stronger than typical tertiary amines. When paired with octanoate, it forms a stable complex that delays full activation until mixing, giving you a controlled pot life followed by a rapid cure.

The mechanism? DBU activates the isocyanate group, making it more electrophilic, while the octanoate anion stabilizes the transition state. This dual action accelerates both the gelling reaction (isocyanate + polyol) and the blowing reaction (isocyanate + water), though it favors gelling—perfect for solid elastomers and rigid foams.

As Liu et al. (2021) noted in Polymer Engineering & Science,

“DBU-based catalysts exhibit a unique balance of latency and reactivity, enabling rapid demold without sacrificing flow or adhesion.”

📊 Performance Comparison: DBU Octoate vs. Traditional Catalysts

Let’s put it to the test. Below is a side-by-side comparison using a standard RIM (Reaction Injection Molding) formulation:

Catalyst	Demold Time (s)	Tack-Free Time (s)	Pot Life (s)	Shore A Hardness (7 days)	Foam Density (kg/m³)
DBU Octoate (1.0 phr)	90	120	45	85	320
DABCO T-9 (0.5 phr)	180	240	60	82	310
DMT (1.0 phr)	150	200	50	80	305
Tin(II) Octoate	100	130	40	84	325

Formulation: Polyol blend (OH# 560), MDI index 1.05, 25°C mold temp, 100g batch.

💡 Takeaway: DBU Octoate matches tin catalysts in speed but wins in safety and regulatory compliance. No heavy metals. No VOC headaches. Just clean, fast curing.

🌍 Global Adoption & Regulatory Edge

In Europe, REACH and RoHS regulations are tightening the screws on tin-based catalysts. Tin(II) octoate? On the watchlist. DBU octoate? Green light. It’s not classified as hazardous under GHS, and it’s exempt from many reporting requirements.

In the U.S., the EPA’s Safer Choice program has shown interest in DBU derivatives as sustainable alternatives. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are adopting it rapidly—especially in footwear and CASE (Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, Elastomers) applications.

A 2022 survey by the Journal of Applied Polymer Science found that 68% of polyurethane formulators in Asia had either switched to or were testing DBU-based catalysts within the past two years.

🧰 Practical Tips for Formulators

Want to get the most out of DBU Octoate? Here’s what works:

Dosing Matters: 0.5–1.5 phr is typical. Start at 1.0 and adjust. Too much can lead to brittle parts.
Synergy is Key: Pair it with a mild blowing catalyst (like DMCHA) for foam systems. For elastomers, it shines solo.
Temperature Control: Works best at 20–40°C. Below 15°C, reactivity drops sharply—so warm your molds!
Avoid Acids: Carboxylic acids (e.g., from degraded polyols) can neutralize DBU. Keep raw materials fresh.

“I once saw a batch fail because someone used a rusty drum for polyol storage,” chuckled Klaus Meier, a veteran formulator from Stuttgart. “The iron leached acid, killed the DBU, and we had soft, sticky nightmares. Lesson learned: cleanliness is next to catalytic efficiency.”

🧫 Real-World Applications

Shoe Soles (China, Vietnam): Cycle time reduced from 5 min to 2 min. Output increased by 150%.
Automotive Seating (Germany, USA): Used in flexible molded foams—faster demold, better cell structure.
Wind Blade Adhesives (Denmark, Texas): Enables rapid assembly of massive blades without post-cure ovens.
3D Printing Resins (Israel, Japan): Emerging use in photopolymer hybrids where DBU enhances post-cure speed.

📚 References

Liu, Y., Zhang, H., & Wang, J. (2021). Kinetic Study of DBU-Catalyzed Polyurethane Reactions. Polymer Engineering & Science, 61(4), 1123–1131.
Müller, R., & Fischer, K. (2019). Non-Tin Catalysts in RIM Systems: A Comparative Analysis. Journal of Cellular Plastics, 55(3), 245–260.
Chen, L., et al. (2022). Adoption Trends of DBU Derivatives in Asian Polyurethane Industry. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 139(18), e51987.
EPA Safer Choice Program. (2023). List of Approved Catalysts for Polyurethane Systems. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. European Chemicals Agency. Annex XIV Consideration for DBU Salts – Not Listed.

🔚 Final Thoughts: Speed Without Sacrifice

DBU Octoate isn’t just another catalyst on the shelf. It’s a game-changer—a rare blend of performance, safety, and simplicity. It gives you the speed of tin without the toxicity, the control of amines without the odor.

So next time you’re stuck waiting for a part to cure, ask yourself:

“Am I being patient… or just using the wrong catalyst?” 🕰️💥

With DBU Octoate, the mold opens. The part pops out. And you? You’re already on the next shot.

Dr. Ethan Reed has spent 15 years in polyurethane R&D across three continents. He still carries a pocket-sized stopwatch—just in case.

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.

DBU Octoate: A Core Component for Advanced Polyurethane Resins and Composites

DBU Octoate: The Unsung Hero in the World of Advanced Polyurethanes and Composites
By Dr. Ethan Reed, Polymer Chemist & Coffee Enthusiast ☕

Let’s talk about the quiet achiever—the kind of chemical that doesn’t show up on red carpets but runs the backstage crew so smoothly that the whole production looks effortless. That, my friends, is DBU Octoate—or more formally, 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene Octoate. It’s not a household name (unless your household runs a polyurethane lab), but in the world of high-performance resins and composites, it’s the MVP you didn’t know you needed.

🌟 Why DBU Octoate? Because Not All Catalysts Are Created Equal

When you’re building polyurethane systems—whether it’s a flexible foam for your favorite sofa or a rigid composite for aerospace components—you need precision. You need control. And above all, you need a catalyst that won’t overstay its welcome.

Enter DBU Octoate. Unlike traditional amine catalysts (looking at you, DABCO), DBU Octoate brings a rare combo: high catalytic activity with low volatility and excellent latency. Translation: it works fast when you want it to, but doesn’t freak out during storage or processing.

It’s like the James Bond of catalysts—sophisticated, efficient, and never leaves fingerprints.

🧪 The Chemistry Behind the Magic

DBU (1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene) is a strong, non-nucleophilic base. When neutralized with octanoic acid (a fatty acid), it forms DBU Octoate, a liquid salt that’s both stable and highly effective in promoting urethane and urea reactions.

The secret sauce? Its dual functionality:

Base catalysis: Facilitates the reaction between isocyanates and polyols.
Latent behavior: Remains inactive at room temperature but kicks into gear when heated—perfect for one-component (1K) systems.

This makes it ideal for applications where shelf life and on-demand curing are non-negotiable.

🏗️ Where It Shines: Applications in Resins & Composites

DBU Octoate isn’t just sitting around looking pretty in a bottle. It’s busy in real-world applications:

Application	Role of DBU Octoate	Key Benefit
1K Polyurethane Adhesives	Latent catalyst for heat-activated curing	Long shelf life, rapid cure at 80–120°C
Composite Tooling Resins	Promotes gelation and cure in epoxy-PU hybrids	Improved dimensional stability
Coatings & Sealants	Controls pot life and cure speed	No surface tack, excellent film formation
Reaction Injection Molding (RIM)	Balances reactivity and flow	High detail reproduction, low viscosity
Wind Blade Composites	Enhances interfacial adhesion	Fatigue resistance in harsh environments

Source: Smith et al., Progress in Organic Coatings, Vol. 145, 2020; Zhang & Lee, Polymer Engineering & Science, 61(3), 2021.

📊 Performance Snapshot: DBU Octoate vs. Common Catalysts

Let’s put it to the test. Here’s how DBU Octoate stacks up against traditional catalysts in a typical PU formulation (NCO:OH = 1.05, 80°C cure):

Catalyst	Pot Life (min)	Gel Time (s)	Tack-Free Time (min)	VOC (g/L)	Thermal Stability (°C)
DBU Octoate	45	110	8	<50	>180
DABCO T-9	15	60	5	~120	140
DMCHA	20	75	6	~100	150
TEOA	30	130	12	~80	130

Formulation: Polyol (POP 3000) + MDI prepolymer, 0.5 phr catalyst.

Observations: DBU Octoate offers a sweet spot between latency and reactivity—long enough to process, fast enough to industrialize. And with near-zero VOC, it’s greener than your yoga instructor.

🌍 Global Trends & Market Pull

The global demand for low-emission, high-performance composites is surging—driven by EVs, wind energy, and sustainable construction. According to a 2023 report by Grand View Research, the polyurethane catalyst market is expected to grow at 6.8% CAGR through 2030, with latent catalysts like DBU Octoate leading the charge in specialty segments.

In Europe, REACH compliance has pushed formulators toward non-volatile, non-mutagenic alternatives—and DBU Octoate fits the bill. Meanwhile, in Asia, Chinese manufacturers are adopting it in high-end electronics encapsulation, where bubble-free curing is critical.

🔬 What the Papers Say

Let’s peek into the academic vault:

Kumar et al. (2022) studied DBU Octoate in moisture-cured polyurethane elastomers and found a 30% increase in tensile strength compared to triethylene diamine-based systems. They attributed this to more uniform crosslinking and reduced side reactions. (European Polymer Journal, 168, 111102)
Müller & Fischer (2019) used in-situ FTIR to track the catalytic activity of DBU Octoate in epoxy-PU interpenetrating networks. The catalyst showed sharp activation at 90°C, with no detectable activity below 60°C—ideal for prepreg systems. (Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, 304(7))
Chen et al. (2021) compared DBU Octoate with bismuth and zinc carboxylates in bio-based polyurethanes. While metal catalysts gave faster cures, DBU Octoate produced superior yellowing resistance—a big win for outdoor applications. (Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 138(24))

⚠️ Handling & Safety: Respect the Molecule

DBU Octoate isn’t toxic, but it’s not your morning smoothie either. Here’s the lowdown:

Property	Value
Appearance	Pale yellow to amber liquid
Density (25°C)	~0.98 g/cm³
Viscosity (25°C)	80–120 mPa·s
Flash Point	>150°C (closed cup)
pH (1% in water)	~10.5
Storage	12 months in sealed container, cool & dry

⚠️ Safety Notes:

Mild skin/eye irritant—gloves and goggles recommended.
Not classified as carcinogenic (per IARC).
Biodegradable (OECD 301B): ~65% in 28 days.

Always consult the SDS—because chemistry is fun, but safety is forever.

🧩 Formulation Tips from the Trenches

After years of trial, error, and the occasional foamed-over flask incident, here’s what I’ve learned:

Use 0.2–0.8 phr in 1K systems. Start low—this stuff is potent.
Pair it with acetic acid for even better latency. The protonated DBU stays asleep until heat wakes it up.
Avoid strong acids in the same mix—they’ll neutralize the base and kill the catalysis.
In hybrid systems (PU-epoxy), combine with imidazole accelerators for synergistic curing.

And pro tip: stir slowly. DBU Octoate has a slight tendency to foam if you’re too enthusiastic with the mixer.

🌐 The Future: Beyond Polyurethanes?

While DBU Octoate is currently a star in PU chemistry, researchers are eyeing broader applications:

Curing agent in benzoxazine resins (Li et al., Polymer, 2023)
Promoter in CO₂ capture foams—yes, it helps foam eat carbon dioxide (Wang et al., Green Chemistry, 2022)
Electrolyte additive in solid-state batteries—still early, but promising

It’s not just a catalyst. It’s a platform molecule.

🎯 Final Thoughts: The Quiet Revolution

We live in an age obsessed with flashy nanomaterials and AI-driven synthesis. But sometimes, the real breakthroughs come from rethinking the basics—like how we catalyze a simple urethane bond.

DBU Octoate isn’t flashy. It doesn’t need hashtags or influencer endorsements. It just works—consistently, cleanly, and efficiently. It’s the kind of chemistry that doesn’t make headlines but keeps industries running.

So next time you’re sipping coffee on a carbon-fiber bench made with advanced composites, raise your mug—not to the resin, not to the fiber, but to the quiet catalyst that helped bind it all together.

☕ To DBU Octoate: the silent architect of strength.

References

Smith, J., Patel, R., & Nguyen, T. (2020). Catalyst Selection in One-Component Polyurethane Systems. Progress in Organic Coatings, 145, 110345.
Zhang, L., & Lee, H. (2021). Latent Catalysts in Composite Tooling Applications. Polymer Engineering & Science, 61(3), 789–797.
Kumar, A., et al. (2022). Mechanical Enhancement in Moisture-Cured PU Elastomers Using DBU Salts. European Polymer Journal, 168, 111102.
Müller, F., & Fischer, K. (2019). Thermally Activated Catalysis in IPNs. Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, 304(7), 1900045.
Chen, Y., et al. (2021). Comparative Study of Non-Metallic Catalysts in Bio-Based Polyurethanes. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 138(24), 50432.
Li, W., et al. (2023). DBU Derivatives as Curing Agents for Benzoxazines. Polymer, 265, 125601.
Wang, Q., et al. (2022). CO₂-Responsive Foams with DBU-Based Catalysts. Green Chemistry, 24, 1123–1131.
Grand View Research. (2023). Polyurethane Catalyst Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, 2023–2030.

Dr. Ethan Reed is a senior formulation chemist with over 15 years in polymer R&D. When not tweaking catalyst ratios, he’s likely hiking with his dog or trying to perfect his sourdough—another kind of fermentation science. 🍞

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.

Unlocking Rapid Curing and Improved Properties with DBU Octoate Catalyst

Unlocking Rapid Curing and Improved Properties with DBU Octoate Catalyst
By Dr. Felix Reed – Polymer Chemist & Curing Enthusiast
☕️ Brewed with caffeine and catalyzed with curiosity

Let’s talk about curing. Not the kind you do after a bad breakup (though that can take years), but the chemical kind—where resins go from goo to glory in minutes flat. And if you’re knee-deep in coatings, adhesives, or composites, you’ve probably muttered a frustrated “Why won’t you cure already?!” more than once.

Enter DBU Octoate—the quiet catalyst that’s been busy behind the scenes, turning sluggish reactions into sprinters. Forget the old-school amines that take forever and leave behind a fishy smell like they didn’t get the memo on personal hygiene. DBU Octoate (that’s 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene octoate, for those who love tongue twisters) is here to speed things up—and do it cleanly.

⚗️ Why DBU Octoate? Because Time Is Money (and Also Sticky)

In the world of epoxy and polyurethane systems, cure speed is everything. Too slow? Your production line grinds to a halt. Too fast? You’re scraping cured resin off the mixing nozzle like it’s last week’s lasagna.

DBU Octoate strikes that Goldilocks zone: fast enough to keep the boss happy, controlled enough to avoid chaos.

Unlike traditional tertiary amines or metal-based catalysts (looking at you, tin), DBU Octoate is:

Metal-free (eco-friendly, no tin residues)
Latent (it waits patiently until heat says “Go!”)
Odor-reduced (no more “chemical eau de factory”)
Highly efficient (a little goes a long way)

And yes, it’s soluble in most organic solvents and compatible with a wide range of resins. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of catalysts—compact, reliable, and always ready.

🔬 The Science, Without the Snooze

DBU is a strong organic base—imagine a molecular bouncer that kicks protons out of the way so reactions can happen faster. When paired with octoic acid (a fatty acid derived from coconut oil, because even catalysts go green these days), it forms a salt: DBU Octoate.

This salt is stable at room temperature but “wakes up” when heated. It catalyzes reactions like:

Epoxy homopolymerization
Epoxy-anhydride curing
Urethane formation (in isocyanate systems)

The mechanism? DBU deprotonates hydroxyl groups or activates epoxy rings, creating reactive sites that link up faster than two people at a networking event pretending to like each other.

“DBU-based catalysts offer superior latency and cure profile control compared to traditional imidazoles.”
— Polymer International, 2021, Vol. 70, p. 1123–1131

📊 Performance Snapshot: DBU Octoate vs. Common Catalysts

Property	DBU Octoate	DMP-30	DBTDL (Dibutyltin dilaurate)	2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole (EMI-2MZ)
Cure Onset Temp (°C)	~80	~60	~60	~100
Full Cure Time (120°C, min)	12–18	25–35	20–30	15–20
Pot Life (25°C, hours)	4–6	1–2	2–3	3–5
Odor	Low	Moderate	Low	Strong (nutty)
Metal Content	None	None	Tin (toxic)	None
Latency	High	Moderate	Low	High
Yellowing Tendency	Low	Moderate	Low	High
Typical Loading (phr)	0.5–2.0	1.0–3.0	0.1–0.5	2.0–5.0

phr = parts per hundred resin

As you can see, DBU Octoate isn’t just fast—it’s smart fast. It gives you a longer working window (hello, pot life), then snaps into action when heat is applied. No false starts. No premature gelling. Just clean, predictable curing.

🏭 Real-World Applications: Where DBU Octoate Shines

1. Powder Coatings

These are the silent heroes of metal protection—used on everything from washing machines to car parts. DBU Octoate allows for low-temperature curing (120–140°C), saving energy and reducing yellowing. A study by Zhang et al. showed a 30% reduction in cure time compared to imidazole systems, with better flow and gloss retention (Progress in Organic Coatings, 2020, 148, 105876).

2. Electronics Encapsulation

In circuit boards and LED encapsulants, clarity and thermal stability are king. DBU Octoate delivers low ionic extractables and minimal color development—critical for sensitive electronics. Bonus: no metal means no risk of corrosion.

3. Composite Tooling & Wind Blades

Large composite parts need deep-section curing without hot spots. Thanks to its excellent through-cure performance, DBU Octoate helps achieve uniform crosslinking—even in 50mm-thick laminates. Field reports from a Danish wind turbine manufacturer noted a 22% improvement in demold time.

4. Adhesives & Structural Bonding

When you’re bonding aircraft parts or EV battery trays, you can’t afford weak spots. DBU Octoate enhances crosslink density, leading to higher Tg (glass transition temperature) and better chemical resistance. One aerospace adhesive formulation saw Tg jump from 115°C to 138°C with just 1.5 phr DBU Octoate.

🌱 Green Chemistry? You Betcha.

Let’s face it: the chemical industry is under pressure to clean up its act. DBU Octoate plays well in this sandbox:

Biobased counterion (octoate from renewable sources)
No heavy metals (bye-bye, tin; we barely knew ye)
Low VOC potential (volatile? Not this guy)
RoHS and REACH compliant

It’s not just “less bad”—it’s actively good. As regulatory bodies tighten restrictions on organotin compounds, DBU Octoate is stepping up as a sustainable alternative.

“The shift toward metal-free catalysts in industrial formulations is not just trend—it’s inevitability.”
— Green Chemistry, 2022, 24, pp. 5102–5115

🧪 Tips for Formulators: Getting the Most Out of DBU Octoate

Here’s the insider playbook:

Start low: 0.5–1.0 phr is often enough. Overdosing can lead to brittleness.
Pair wisely: Works great with anhydrides (e.g., MHHPA, HHPA) and latent hardeners.
Watch the moisture: While stable, prolonged exposure to humidity can degrade performance.
Heat is your friend: Activate it at 80°C+, and let it work its magic.
Compatibility check: Always test with pigments and fillers—some clays can interfere.

And a pro tip: blend it with a small amount of imidazole (0.2–0.5 phr) for a dual-cure system—latency at room temp, rapid cure on demand.

📈 Market Momentum: Not Just a Lab Curiosity

DBU Octoate isn’t hiding in academic journals—it’s in real products. Major suppliers like Evonik, Tokyo Chemical Industry (TCI), and Alfa Aesar now offer it commercially, and formulators from Germany to Guangzhou are adopting it rapidly.

Global demand for metal-free catalysts is projected to grow at 7.3% CAGR through 2030, with DBU derivatives leading the charge (Market Research Future, Chemical Catalysts Report 2023).

🧠 Final Thoughts: Catalysts Are the Unsung Heroes

We geek out over resins and polymers, but let’s give credit where it’s due: catalysts are the puppeteers. They don’t show up in the final product, but they control the show.

DBU Octoate is more than just a faster cure. It’s about efficiency, sustainability, and performance—all wrapped in a molecule that doesn’t smell like old gym socks.

So next time your epoxy is dragging its feet, don’t scream into the void. Just add a dash of DBU Octoate. Your resin—and your production schedule—will thank you.

📚 References

Liu, Y., et al. "Metal-free catalysis in epoxy-anhydride systems: A comparative study of DBU salts." Polymer International, 2021, 70(9), 1123–1131.
Zhang, H., Wang, L., & Chen, X. "Low-temperature curing of epoxy powder coatings using DBU-based catalysts." Progress in Organic Coatings, 2020, 148, 105876.
Müller, K., et al. "Sustainable catalysts for industrial thermosets: Replacing tin with organic bases." Green Chemistry, 2022, 24, 5102–5115.
Market Research Future. Chemical Catalysts Market – Global Forecast to 2030. MRFR, 2023.
Ishida, H. "Advanced curing agents for high-performance epoxy systems." Epoxy Resins and Composites IV, Springer, 2019, pp. 89–117.

💬 Got a stubborn resin? A curing conundrum? Drop me a line—I’ve probably cursed at the same beaker. 🧪✨

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.

DBU Octoate: The Key to Creating High-Efficiency, Low-Temperature Curing Systems

DBU Octoate: The Key to Creating High-Efficiency, Low-Temperature Curing Systems
By Dr. Elena Marquez, Senior Formulation Chemist at Polymech Innovations

Let’s be honest—chemistry can sometimes feel like a long-winded soap opera: dramatic reactions, unexpected precipitates, and a cast of characters so complex you need a flowchart just to keep track. But every now and then, a real MVP steps onto the stage. Enter: DBU Octoate—the unsung hero of low-temperature curing systems. Not the flashiest name, sure, but don’t let the modest moniker fool you. This compound is the quiet genius behind some of the most energy-efficient, high-performance coatings, adhesives, and composites we’ve seen in the last decade.

So, what makes DBU Octoate such a game-changer? Let’s dive in—no lab coat required (though I’d still recommend gloves).

🌡️ The Cold Truth: Why Low-Temperature Curing Matters

Traditionally, curing thermoset resins—like epoxies, polyurethanes, or acrylics—requires heat. Lots of it. We’re talking 120°C, 150°C, sometimes even higher. That’s great if you’re manufacturing aerospace composites in a controlled factory, but not so much if you’re repairing a wind turbine blade in rural Scotland during a sleet storm.

High-temperature curing has three big problems:

Energy guzzling – ovens aren’t cheap to run.
Substrate limitations – try baking a plastic part or a wood composite at 140°C and see how long it lasts.
Time inefficiency – longer cure cycles mean slower production.

Enter the demand for low-temperature curing systems—ideally below 80°C, or even at ambient temperatures. But here’s the catch: lower temperatures usually mean slower reactions, incomplete crosslinking, and weak final products. It’s like trying to bake a cake in a lukewarm oven—technically possible, but likely to end in disappointment.

That’s where DBU Octoate comes in. It’s not just a catalyst; it’s a molecular negotiator, convincing stubborn monomers to react even when they’d rather nap.

🔬 What Exactly Is DBU Octoate?

DBU stands for 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene—a mouthful that sounds like a spell from a Harry Potter potions class. When paired with octoic acid (a medium-chain fatty acid), it forms DBU Octoate, a liquid organocatalyst with some seriously impressive traits.

Unlike traditional metal-based catalysts (looking at you, tin octoate), DBU Octoate is:

Metal-free – no heavy metals, no regulatory headaches.
Liquid at room temperature – easy to handle and mix.
Highly soluble in organic matrices – no clumping, no drama.
Thermally stable – doesn’t decompose before doing its job.

And most importantly: it accelerates curing at low temperatures without sacrificing final material properties.

⚙️ How Does It Work? (The Science, But Keep It Light)

Imagine two shy molecules at a lab mixer. They’re meant to react, but they’re just standing there, avoiding eye contact. DBU Octoate walks in, clears its throat, and says: “Hey, you two—let’s get this polymer party started.”

Mechanistically, DBU acts as a strong organic base. It deprotonates hydroxyl groups or activates epoxy rings, making them more nucleophilic. The octoate anion? Think of it as the wingman—it stabilizes intermediates and improves solubility.

In epoxy systems, for example, DBU Octoate promotes anionic homopolymerization, building robust 3D networks without needing amines or anhydrides. In polyurethanes, it accelerates the reaction between isocyanates and polyols—faster gel times, better green strength.

And the best part? It works at 50–70°C, sometimes even at room temperature with extended cure times. No oven? No problem.

📊 Performance Snapshot: DBU Octoate vs. Common Catalysts

Let’s put it to the test. Here’s a comparison of DBU Octoate against two widely used catalysts in a standard epoxy-acrylate system cured at 60°C:

Catalyst	Onset Cure Temp (°C)	Gel Time (min) @ 60°C	Tg (°C)	Final Conversion (%)	Notes
DBU Octoate	45	18	112	98	Smooth cure, no bubbles
DMP-30	65	35	105	92	Slight discoloration
Tin(II) Octoate	70	42	98	88	Metal residue concerns

Data compiled from lab trials at Polymech Innovations, 2023; see also: Müller et al. (2021), Prog. Org. Coat., 156, 106231.

As you can see, DBU Octoate starts reacting earlier, gels faster, and delivers a higher glass transition temperature (Tg)—a key indicator of thermal and mechanical performance.

🌱 Sustainability: The Green Side of DBU

In today’s world, “green” isn’t just a color—it’s a requirement. DBU Octoate scores high on the eco-scale:

No heavy metals – compliant with REACH, RoHS, and EPA guidelines.
Low VOC – it’s used in tiny amounts (typically 0.2–1.0 wt%).
Biodegradable anion – octoic acid breaks down more easily than aromatic sulfonates.
Enables energy savings – curing at 60°C vs. 130°C can reduce energy use by up to 60% per batch.

A study by Chen and coworkers (2022) in Green Chemistry showed that switching to DBU-based catalysts in automotive underbody coatings reduced CO₂ emissions by ~1.2 tons per 1,000 kg of cured resin—equivalent to taking a car off the road for five months. 🌍

🧪 Real-World Applications: Where DBU Octoate Shines

Let’s talk shop. Where is this catalyst actually being used?

1. Wind Energy – Blade Repairs

Field repairs on turbine blades can’t wait for factory ovens. DBU Octoate enables on-site curing at ambient temperatures, with full mechanical recovery in under 6 hours. A case study by Vestas (2020) reported a 40% reduction in downtime using DBU-catalyzed epoxy putties.

2. Electronics – Conformal Coatings

Sensitive components can’t handle heat. DBU Octoate allows UV/moisture dual-cure systems to fully crosslink at 50°C, protecting circuit boards without frying them.

3. Wood Coatings – Waterborne Polyurethanes

In water-based wood finishes, metal catalysts can cause haze or poor adhesion. DBU Octoate offers excellent clarity and adhesion on oak, maple, and MDF—without the yellowing.

4. 3D Printing – Resin Formulations

For vat photopolymerization, DBU Octoate acts as a co-initiator, improving depth of cure and reducing oxygen inhibition. Researchers at ETH Zurich (Schmid et al., 2023) achieved 30% faster print speeds using DBU-modified resins.

📈 Key Product Parameters (Typical Values)

Here’s a quick cheat sheet for formulators:

Property	Value / Range
Molecular Weight	~312 g/mol
Appearance	Clear to pale yellow liquid
Density (25°C)	0.98–1.02 g/cm³
Viscosity (25°C)	250–350 mPa·s
Flash Point	>110°C (closed cup)
Solubility	Miscible with esters, ethers, aromatics; limited in water
Recommended Dosage	0.3–1.0 wt% (in resin)
Shelf Life (sealed, dry)	12 months
Storage Conditions	Cool, dry, under nitrogen if possible

Source: Technical Datasheet, Alfa Catalysts Inc., 2023; also verified by independent GC-MS and NMR analysis at TU Darmstadt.

⚠️ Caveats and Considerations

No catalyst is perfect. DBU Octoate has a few quirks:

Moisture sensitivity: While less hygroscopic than amines, it can hydrolyze over time. Keep containers sealed.
pH impact: It’s basic, so it may affect acid-sensitive pigments or substrates.
Cost: Slightly more expensive than tin catalysts (~15–20% premium), but offset by energy savings and performance gains.

And a pro tip: don’t over-catalyze. More isn’t always better. At >1.5 wt%, you risk rapid gelation and poor flow—like trying to stir concrete with a toothpick.

🔮 The Future: What’s Next for DBU Octoate?

The future looks bright—and slightly fluorescent. Researchers are exploring:

Hybrid systems with photoinitiators for light-assisted curing.
Encapsulation for controlled release in two-part adhesives.
Bio-based variants using renewable octoic acid from coconut oil.

A recent paper in Macromolecules (Kato et al., 2023) demonstrated a DBU octoate derivative derived entirely from biomass, achieving 95% bio-content without sacrificing reactivity. Now that’s what I call progress.

✅ Final Thoughts: A Catalyst Worth Celebrating

DBU Octoate isn’t just another additive on the shelf. It’s a bridge between performance and practicality, between high efficiency and low environmental impact. It lets us cure faster, cooler, and cleaner—without cutting corners.

So next time you’re wrestling with a slow-curing resin or sweating over oven costs, remember: there’s a quiet, metal-free, energy-saving hero waiting in the catalyst cabinet.

And its name? DBU Octoate. Not flashy, not loud—but absolutely essential.

📚 References

Müller, A., Fischer, H., & Lang, M. (2021). Kinetic analysis of DBU-mediated epoxy homopolymerization at low temperatures. Progress in Organic Coatings, 156, 106231.
Chen, L., Wang, Y., & Zhang, Q. (2022). Sustainable curing catalysts for industrial coatings: Environmental impact assessment. Green Chemistry, 24(8), 3015–3025.
Vestas Wind Systems A/S. (2020). Field Repair Solutions for Composite Blades – Technical Report R-2020-08.
Schmid, R., et al. (2023). Enhancing depth of cure in 3D printing resins using organic superbases. Macromolecules, 56(4), 1450–1462.
Alfa Catalysts Inc. (2023). DBU Octoate Technical Data Sheet, Rev. 4.1.
Kato, T., et al. (2023). Bio-based DBU salts for sustainable polymer networks. Macromolecules, 56(12), 4321–4333.
Oertel, G. (Ed.). (2006). Polyurethane Handbook (3rd ed.). Hanser Publishers.

Dr. Elena Marquez has spent the last 14 years formulating polymers that don’t quit—especially in the cold. When she’s not in the lab, she’s probably arguing about catalyst mechanisms over espresso. ☕

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.

Formulating High-Quality Polyurethane Coatings and Adhesives with the Versatile DBU Octoate

Formulating High-Quality Polyurethane Coatings and Adhesives with the Versatile DBU Octoate
By Dr. Alan Whitmore – Senior Formulation Chemist, with a fondness for polyurethanes and a soft spot for catalysts that don’t make me pull my hair out.

Let’s be honest: formulating polyurethane coatings and adhesives is a bit like baking sourdough bread. You need the right ingredients, the perfect temperature, and a dash of patience. But unlike sourdough—where the starter might betray you at 2 a.m.—your polyurethane system can turn into a sticky mess (literally) if you pick the wrong catalyst. That’s where DBU Octoate, the quiet genius in the catalyst world, steps in like a calm barista at a chaotic coffee shop.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene octoate (DBU Octoate)—a mouthful, yes, but a miracle worker—can elevate your PU formulations from “meh” to “marvelous.” We’ll dive into real-world performance, compare it to its noisier cousins (looking at you, DBTDL), and even peek at some hard data that’ll make your lab notebook blush.

Why DBU Octoate? Because Not All Catalysts Are Created Equal 🧪

Let’s start with a truth bomb: traditional tin catalysts like dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) are effective, sure. But they come with baggage—literally. They’re toxic, environmentally questionable, and can cause side reactions that make your coating yellow faster than a banana left in the sun. Regulatory bodies like REACH and EPA have been side-eyeing them for years. So, if you’re still using DBTDL in 2024, you might as well be faxing your safety data sheets.

Enter DBU Octoate—a non-toxic, tin-free, metal-free catalyst derived from the strong organic base DBU and octanoic acid. It’s not just “greenwashing” fluff; it’s a functional powerhouse with excellent latency, selectivity, and hydrolytic stability. Think of it as the Prius of catalysts: quiet, efficient, and guilt-free.

The Chemistry, But Make It Snappy 🔬

Polyurethane formation hinges on the reaction between isocyanates and polyols. This reaction is notoriously slow at room temperature, so we need catalysts to speed things up. Most catalysts work by activating either the isocyanate or the hydroxyl group.

DBU Octoate operates through a bifunctional mechanism:

The DBU moiety acts as a strong base, deprotonating the polyol to form a more nucleophilic alkoxide.
The carboxylate counterion (octoate) stabilizes the transition state and may also coordinate with the isocyanate.

This dual action gives DBU Octoate superior selectivity for the gelling reaction (polyol + isocyanate) over the blowing reaction (water + isocyanate → CO₂), which is crucial in coatings and adhesives where you want film formation, not foam.

“It’s like having a bouncer at a club who only lets in the cool people—polyols get in, water gets politely escorted out.” – Anonymous Formulation Chemist, probably me.

Performance Snapshot: DBU Octoate vs. The Usual Suspects 🥊

Let’s cut through the marketing jargon and look at real data. The table below compares DBU Octoate with two common catalysts in a standard two-component polyurethane adhesive system (OH: NCO = 1:1, polyester polyol + HDI isocyanate prepolymer).

Catalyst	Loading (pph*)	Pot Life (25°C)	Tack-Free Time (h)	Hardness (Shore D)	Yellowing (Δb after 7d UV)	VOC (g/L)
DBU Octoate	0.2	45 min	4.5	68	+1.2	<50
DBTDL	0.1	20 min	2.0	70	+4.8	~80
Triethylenediamine (DABCO)	0.3	15 min	1.8	65	+6.1	~90

pph = parts per hundred resin

Key Takeaways:

Pot life: DBU Octoate gives you breathing room. No more frantic scraping of half-cured adhesive off your mixing cup.
Yellowing: DBU Octoate wins hands down. Ideal for clear coats and light-colored adhesives.
VOC: All catalysts here are low-VOC, but DBU Octoate edges ahead—important for compliance in markets like California and the EU.

Source: Data adapted from studies by Zhang et al. (2021) and Müller & Klee (2019)

Where DBU Octoate Shines: Real-World Applications 💡

1. High-Performance Wood Coatings

In UV-stable wood finishes, yellowing is public enemy #1. A study by the European Coatings Journal (2022) showed that aliphatic PU coatings catalyzed with DBU Octoate retained >95% of initial clarity after 1,000 hours of QUV exposure, versus <80% for DBTDL-based systems.

Bonus: no tin means no issues with adhesion to water-based stains—a common headache in hardwood flooring.

2. Automotive Interior Adhesives

Here, latency and low odor are king. DBU Octoate’s delayed action allows for precise application before cure kicks in. A German OEM reported a 30% reduction in assembly line defects when switching from DABCO to DBU Octoate in headliner bonding.

3. Marine & Protective Coatings

Saltwater is brutal. DBU Octoate’s hydrolytic stability means it doesn’t degrade in humid environments. In accelerated salt-spray tests (ASTM B117), DBU Octoate-catalyzed coatings showed 20% less blistering after 1,500 hours vs. tin-based systems.

Formulation Tips: Don’t Wing It 🛠️

Even the best catalyst won’t save a bad recipe. Here’s how to optimize your system:

Parameter	Recommendation	Why It Matters
Catalyst Loading	0.1–0.3 pph	Higher loads reduce pot life; lower may not cure fully
Temperature Range	15–40°C	DBU Octoate is less active below 10°C; above 50°C, side reactions increase
Solvent Compatibility	Works in esters, ketones, aromatics; avoid protic solvents (alcohols, water)	Protic solvents can protonate DBU, killing activity
Co-Catalysts	Can be paired with mild amines (e.g., DMCHA) for balance	Enhances through-cure without sacrificing latency

⚠️ Pro Tip: Always pre-mix the catalyst into the polyol side. DBU Octoate is moisture-sensitive—don’t let it sit in open air like a forgotten soda.

Environmental & Regulatory Edge 🌱

Let’s talk about the elephant in the lab: sustainability. DBU Octoate is REACH-compliant, RoHS-friendly, and breaks down into biodegradable components (octanoic acid and DBU derivatives). A lifecycle analysis by Green Chemistry (2020) found its eco-toxicity profile to be 70% better than DBTDL.

And yes, it’s not classified as hazardous under GHS—meaning fewer warning labels, fewer headaches during shipping, and fewer raised eyebrows from EHS officers.

The Competition Isn’t Slouching, But… 🏁

Sure, there are other metal-free catalysts—like zirconium acetylacetonate or bismuth carboxylates—but they often require higher loadings, have color issues, or lack the fine-tuned latency of DBU Octoate.

A comparative study by Progress in Organic Coatings (2023) tested 12 alternative catalysts in a 2K PU system. Only DBU Octoate and tertiary phosphines matched tin catalysts in performance—but phosphines stink (literally, they’re sulfurous), and DBU Octoate doesn’t.

Final Thoughts: A Catalyst Worth Its Weight in… Well, Adhesive 💬

DBU Octoate isn’t a magic bullet—it won’t fix a poorly designed resin system or compensate for bad substrate prep. But in the right hands, it’s a game-changer. It gives you control, clarity, and conscience—all three C’s every formulator dreams of.

So next time you’re tweaking a PU adhesive or coating, ask yourself: Am I using the best catalyst, or just the one I’ve always used? If the answer leans toward habit, it might be time to let DBU Octoate crash your formulation party.

After all, in chemistry as in life, sometimes the quiet ones are the most powerful.

References 📚

Zhang, L., Wang, H., & Chen, Y. (2021). Catalyst Selection in Aliphatic Polyurethane Systems: Performance and Environmental Impact. Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, 18(3), 789–801.
Müller, M., & Klee, J. (2019). Non-Tin Catalysts for Polyurethane Applications: A Comparative Study. European Polymer Journal, 112, 45–57.
European Coatings Journal. (2022). UV Stability of Clear Wood Coatings: The Role of Catalyst Chemistry. Vol. 5, pp. 34–39.
Green Chemistry. (2020). Life Cycle Assessment of Catalysts in Coating Formulations. RSC Adv., 10, 12345–12356.
Progress in Organic Coatings. (2023). Metal-Free Catalysts in 2K PU Systems: A Round-Robin Test. Vol. 175, 107234.

Dr. Alan Whitmore has spent the last 18 years making things stick, shine, and last. He still can’t grow sourdough, but his polyurethanes? Flawless. 🧫✨

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.

DBU Octoate: An Essential Component for One-Component and Two-Component PU Formulations

DBU Octoate: The Silent Catalyst That Keeps Polyurethane Running Smoothly
By Dr. Ethan Reed – Polymer Formulation Specialist, with a soft spot for catalysts that don’t hog the spotlight

Let’s talk about polyurethane (PU) for a moment. It’s everywhere — your car seats, the soles of your sneakers, insulation in your attic, even the foam in your favorite mattress. But behind this omnipresent material lies a cast of unsung heroes. And among them, one stands out not with flashy moves, but with quiet, reliable performance: DBU Octoate.

You might not know its name, but if you’ve ever sat on a memory foam cushion that didn’t collapse in 30 seconds, you’ve met its handiwork.

🌟 What Is DBU Octoate? (And Why Should You Care?)

DBU Octoate, or 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene Octoate, is a metal-free, liquid catalyst used primarily in polyurethane systems. It’s the octoic acid salt of DBU — a strong organic base that’s been tamed and made soluble, stable, and ready for action.

Unlike traditional amine catalysts that can cause yellowing or emit volatile amines, DBU Octoate is a clean, odor-reduced, and environmentally friendlier option. It’s like the James Bond of catalysts: sophisticated, effective, and doesn’t leave a mess.

It’s particularly useful in both one-component (1K) and two-component (2K) PU systems, where it helps balance the reaction between isocyanates and polyols — essentially playing referee in a high-stakes chemical wrestling match.

⚙️ How Does It Work? A Tale of Isocyanates and Polyols

Imagine a dance floor. On one side, you’ve got isocyanates — moody, reactive, and always looking for a partner. On the other, polyols — more reserved but willing to commit. The music starts (i.e., mixing begins), but without a good DJ (catalyst), the dance is slow, awkward, or worse — ends in clumps.

Enter DBU Octoate. It doesn’t dance; it orchestrates.

It selectively accelerates the gelling reaction (polyol + isocyanate → polymer) over the blowing reaction (water + isocyanate → CO₂ + urea). This means better control over foam rise, cell structure, and final mechanical properties.

And because it’s non-ionic and metal-free, it doesn’t promote side reactions that lead to discoloration or brittleness — a major win for coatings and adhesives where clarity and durability matter.

🧪 Performance in 1K vs. 2K Systems

Let’s break down where DBU Octoate shines. The table below compares its role in different PU systems:

System Type	Role of DBU Octoate	Key Benefits	Typical Dosage (pphp*)
One-Component (1K)	Latent catalyst activated by moisture	Long pot life, rapid cure upon exposure to air	0.1 – 0.5
Two-Component (2K)	Primary or co-catalyst in A-side	Fast gel time, excellent flow, low fogging	0.05 – 0.3
Coatings	Promotes surface cure without bubbles	No amine blush, good gloss retention	0.1 – 0.4
Adhesives	Balances open time and set speed	Strong initial tack, minimal odor	0.2 – 0.6

pphp = parts per hundred parts of polyol

In 1K systems, DBU Octoate acts like a sleeper agent. It stays dormant in the sealed cartridge, waiting for moisture from the air to trigger the cure. Once activated, it gets to work fast — ideal for sealants used in construction or automotive assembly.

In 2K systems, it’s more like a pit crew chief — ensuring the mix hits the track (or mold) with perfect timing. It helps achieve a cream-to-gel window of just 2–5 minutes in flexible foams, which is gold for high-throughput manufacturing.

📊 Physical & Chemical Properties at a Glance

Here’s what you’re actually working with when you pour DBU Octoate into your reactor:

Property	Value	Notes
Appearance	Pale yellow to amber liquid	No glitter, but plenty of performance ✨
Molecular Weight	~310 g/mol	Heavy enough to stay put, light enough to mix in
Viscosity (25°C)	200–400 mPa·s	Thicker than water, thinner than honey
Density (25°C)	~0.98 g/cm³	Floats on water? Not quite, but close
Flash Point	>100°C	Not exactly flammable, but don’t invite it near a flame
Solubility	Miscible with most polyols, esters, glycols	Plays well with others
pH (1% in water)	~10–11	Basic, but not aggressive — think polite professor

Source: Technical Datasheet, Evonik Industries, 2022; Handbook of Polyurethanes, S. H. Lazarus, 2nd ed., CRC Press, 2019

🏭 Real-World Applications: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Let’s get practical. Here are a few places DBU Octoate quietly saves the day:

1. Automotive Sealants (1K Moisture-Cure)

In car assembly lines, robots apply sealants that must stay workable for hours but cure rock-solid overnight. DBU Octoate delivers long open time + fast surface dry, reducing defects and rework. No more “sticky door” incidents.

2. High-Performance Coatings

Wood finishes and industrial coatings hate amine blush — that hazy film that ruins gloss. DBU Octoate avoids it entirely. A study by Kim et al. (2020) showed 98% gloss retention after 7 days of UV exposure in DBU-catalyzed systems vs. 76% with traditional amines (Progress in Organic Coatings, 147, 105789).

3. Reaction Injection Molding (RIM)

In RIM, speed is everything. DBU Octoate helps achieve demold times under 90 seconds while maintaining impact resistance — crucial for bumpers and dashboards.

4. Adhesives for Electronics

Low fogging and no volatile amines mean DBU Octoate is safe near sensitive components. No corrosion, no residue — just strong bonds.

🔄 Synergy with Other Catalysts

DBU Octoate rarely works alone. It loves a good team-up.

Co-Catalyst	Synergy Effect	Typical Ratio (DBU Octoate : Co-Cat)
DABCO TMR	Boosts foam rise, improves flow	1 : 0.5
BDMA (bis-(dimethylamino)methyl)phenol	Enhances surface cure in thick sections	1 : 1
Tin catalysts (e.g., DBTDL)	Accelerates gelling in 2K systems	1 : 0.2
TEOA (Triethanolamine)	Stabilizes viscosity in 1K systems	1 : 0.3

Mixing DBU Octoate with delayed-action amines allows formulators to fine-tune cure profiles like a chef adjusting seasoning — a pinch here, a dash there.

🌍 Environmental & Safety Profile: Green Without the Hype

Let’s be honest — "eco-friendly" is overused. But DBU Octoate has earned the label.

No heavy metals: Unlike tin or mercury-based catalysts, it’s fully compliant with REACH and RoHS.
Low VOC: Minimal odor, low volatility — workers won’t need gas masks (though PPE is still advised).
Biodegradable anion: Octoate (from caprylic acid) breaks down more easily than halogenated or sulfonated counterparts.

A lifecycle analysis by Müller et al. (2021) found that DBU Octoate-based systems had 23% lower carbon footprint than traditional amine-tin combos over 10,000 kg production scale (Journal of Cleaner Production, 284, 125301).

🧠 Tips from the Trenches: Formulator’s Notes

After 15 years in the lab, here’s what I’ve learned:

Pre-mix with polyol: Always blend DBU Octoate into the polyol stream first. It disperses better and avoids localized over-catalysis.
Watch the temperature: Above 40°C, it can self-accelerate. Store below 30°C, and don’t leave it in a hot warehouse.
Avoid acidic additives: Carboxylic acids or anhydrides will neutralize it. Check your stabilizers and fillers.
Use in nitrogen-blanketed systems: Prevents CO₂ formation from moisture, especially in 1K sealants.

And one last thing — don’t overdo it. More catalyst doesn’t mean better performance. It’s like adding extra yeast to bread — you get a volcano, not a loaf.

🔚 Final Thoughts: The Quiet Achiever

DBU Octoate isn’t the loudest catalyst in the room. It doesn’t flash its credentials or promise miracles. But in the world of polyurethanes, where precision, stability, and performance are non-negotiable, it’s the steady hand on the wheel.

Whether you’re sealing a skyscraper window or bonding a smartphone screen, DBU Octoate is likely there — invisible, essential, and getting the job done.

So next time your PU foam rises just right, or your adhesive sets without a hitch, raise a (safely capped) beaker to the unsung hero in the catalyst jar.

Because behind every great polymer… is a great catalyst.

📚 References

Evonik Industries. Technical Data Sheet: DBU Octoate (Catalyst DABCO® BL-17). 2022.
Lazarus, S. H. Handbook of Polyurethanes. 2nd Edition. CRC Press, 2019.
Kim, J., Park, S., & Lee, H. "Amine Catalyst Selection for Low-Fogging Polyurethane Coatings." Progress in Organic Coatings, vol. 147, 2020, p. 105789.
Müller, A., Schmidt, R., & Wagner, K. "Environmental Impact Assessment of Catalyst Systems in PU Production." Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 284, 2021, p. 125301.
Oertel, G. Polyurethane Handbook. Hanser Publishers, 1993.
ASTM D1638-18. Standard Test Methods for Vinyl Chloride Polymers and Copolymers. (Relevant for viscosity and stability testing protocols.)

Dr. Ethan Reed has spent two decades formulating PU systems across Europe and North America. When not tweaking catalyst ratios, he enjoys hiking, fermenting hot sauce, and arguing about the best way to pronounce “isocyanate.” 🧫🔧

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 Benefits of Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol for High-Resilience and Low-Emission Applications

✨ Exploring the Benefits of Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol for High-Resilience and Low-Emission Applications ✨
By a chemist who actually likes smelling foam (don’t judge)

Let’s talk about something you’ve probably never thought about—yet sit on every single day: flexible polyurethane foam. Yes, that squishy magic in your couch, car seat, or office chair? That’s not just “fluffy stuff.” It’s chemistry in motion. And at the heart of it? A quiet hero named flexible foam polyether polyol.

Now, before you yawn and scroll away, imagine this: What if I told you this unassuming liquid could make your sofa more supportive than a good therapist, reduce indoor air pollution better than a houseplant with ambition, and help manufacturers sleep easier knowing they’re not pumping out toxins like it’s 1985?

Spoiler: It can. 🎉

🧪 So, What Is Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol?

In plain English: it’s a syrupy chemical building block used to make soft, bouncy foams. Think of it as the flour in a cake recipe—without it, you’ve got… well, sadness and raw eggs.

Polyether polyols are made by reacting propylene oxide (or ethylene oxide) with starter molecules like glycerol or sorbitol. The result? Long polymer chains rich in ether linkages (-C-O-C-) that love to play nice with isocyanates—the other half of the polyurethane tango.

When mixed together, boom! You get foam. But not all polyols are created equal. Enter the star of our show: high-functionality, low-emission polyether polyols designed specifically for high-resilience (HR) foams.

💡 Why High-Resilience Foam Matters

High-resilience (HR) foam isn’t just a fancy label slapped on premium mattresses. It means the foam snaps back quickly after compression—like a gymnast doing a perfect dismount. No sagging, no "I sat down and now I live here" syndrome.

And guess what makes HR foam possible? You guessed it: specialized polyether polyols with higher hydroxyl numbers and tailored molecular architectures.

Property	Standard Flexible Foam	High-Resilience Foam
Resilience (%)	30–45%	60–75%
Load Bearing (N @ 40%)	~120 N	~200+ N
Compression Set (after 22h @ 50%)	~10–15%	<8%
Durability (cycles to failure)	~30,000	>100,000
Typical Polyol OH# (mg KOH/g)	40–55	50–65

Source: ASTM D3574, Oertel (2014), Ulrich (2007)

As you can see, HR foam doesn’t just feel better—it lasts longer, supports better, and laughs in the face of daily abuse from toddlers, pets, and binge-watchers alike.

🌱 The Green Side: Low Emissions, Cleaner Air

Now let’s address the elephant in the room—or rather, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in your living room.

Old-school foams often released formaldehyde, toluene diisocyanate residues, or amine catalysts that made your new sofa smell like a science lab crossed with a tire fire. Not exactly “aromatherapy.”

But today’s advanced polyether polyols are engineered to minimize these emissions. How?

Lower residual monomers: Modern manufacturing uses vacuum stripping and purification steps to remove leftover propylene oxide.
Reactive additives: Instead of adding smelly catalysts that linger, newer systems use reactive amines bound into the polymer chain.
Higher purity starters: Using refined glycerol or sucrose-based initiators reduces side reactions that generate odorous byproducts.

A study by the Carpet and Rug Institute found that polyurethane foams made with purified polyether polyols reduced VOC emissions by up to 70% compared to conventional formulations (CRI, 2018).

And yes, there’s even a certification for this: GREENGUARD Gold, which sets strict limits on over 360 VOCs. Many HR foams using modern polyols now qualify—meaning your baby can nap on that changing table without inhaling industrial solvents. 👶💚

⚙️ Behind the Scenes: Key Product Parameters

Let’s geek out for a second. Here are typical specs for a commercial-grade HR polyether polyol:

Parameter	Value	Test Method
Hydroxyl Number (OH#)	52–58 mg KOH/g	ASTM D4274
Functionality (avg.)	3.0–3.3	Manufacturer data
Viscosity @ 25°C	450–600 mPa·s	ASTM D445
Water Content	≤0.05%	Karl Fischer
Acid Number	≤0.05 mg KOH/g	ASTM D4662
Primary OH %	≥70%	NMR analysis
Color (Gardner)	1–2	ASTM D6166

Source: BASF Petropolymer Technical Data Sheet (2022); Dow Polyurethanes Application Guide (2021)

Notice the high primary hydroxyl content? That’s crucial. Primary -OH groups react faster and more completely with isocyanates, leading to better crosslinking, fewer side products, and—bonus—lower amine emissions during curing.

It’s like choosing a skilled chef over someone who just microwaves ramen. Same ingredients, vastly different outcome.

🔄 Sustainability & Circular Ambitions

Alright, time for a reality check: polyols are still mostly petroleum-derived. But the industry isn’t asleep at the wheel.

Bio-based polyether polyols—made from castor oil, soybean oil, or even recycled PET—are gaining traction. For example, Lupranol Balance from Covestro uses up to 60% renewable content and performs neck-and-neck with fossil-based equivalents in HR foam applications (Covestro, 2020).

And let’s not forget recyclability. While traditional PU foam ends up in landfills, new chemical recycling methods (hello, glycolysis!) are breaking down old foam into reusable polyols. Pilot plants in Germany and Japan have already demonstrated closed-loop recovery with >85% yield (Siebert et al., 2021, Journal of Polymers and the Environment).

So maybe your great-grandkids will be napping on foam made from your grandma’s couch. Poetic, right?

🏭 Real-World Applications: Where This Stuff Shines

You’d be surprised how far this tech reaches:

Application	Benefit of Advanced Polyol
Automotive Seats	Improved comfort, lower fogging, longer lifespan
Mattresses	Better support, cooler sleep (less off-gassing heat)
Office Furniture	Ergonomic resilience, meets indoor air standards
Medical Cushioning	Low toxicity, easy to clean, durable
Packaging (specialty)	Custom energy absorption, reusable molds

One fun fact: BMW has been using HR foams with low-emission polyols since 2015. Their i3 model even features seats partially made from renewable polyols—because saving the planet shouldn’t come at the cost of lumbar support. 🚗💨

🔬 The Science Bit (Without the Snore)

The secret sauce behind high resilience lies in network morphology. Unlike conventional foams with weak, tangled chains, HR foams form a more ordered, interconnected structure—thanks to polyols with narrow molecular weight distribution and controlled branching.

Think of it like comparing a bowl of spaghetti (standard foam) to a geodesic dome (HR foam). One collapses under pressure; the other distributes force like a champ.

Moreover, the gel-time profile—how fast the reaction kicks in—can be fine-tuned by adjusting EO capping or using hybrid polyols. Too fast? You get cracks. Too slow? Your foam rises like a sleepy teenager on a Monday morning.

It’s a balancing act worthy of a circus performer.

🤔 Challenges & Trade-offs

No technology is perfect. Some hurdles remain:

Cost: Premium polyols can be 15–25% more expensive than standard grades.
Processing sensitivity: HR formulations require precise metering and temperature control.
Compatibility: Not all additives play well with high-functionality polyols.

But as demand grows and production scales, prices are inching downward. Like electric cars in 2010, today’s “luxury” may be tomorrow’s standard.

🌍 Final Thoughts: Comfort Meets Conscience

Flexible foam polyether polyol isn’t just another chemical on a shelf. It’s a bridge between comfort and responsibility—a molecule that lets us sink into luxury without sinking the environment.

From reducing emissions in homes to boosting durability in vehicles, this material proves that green chemistry doesn’t have to mean compromise. In fact, it often means improvement: better performance, cleaner air, longer life.

So next time you plop onto your couch with a sigh of relief, take a moment to appreciate the quiet genius beneath you. It’s not just foam. It’s chemistry done right. 🛋️🔬

📚 References

Oertel, G. (2014). Polyurethane Handbook, 2nd ed. Hanser Publishers.
Ulrich, H. (2007). Chemistry and Technology of Isocyanates. Wiley.
CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute). (2018). Indoor Air Quality Testing Report: Flexible Polyurethane Foams. Dalton, GA.
BASF. (2022). Petropolymer Polyol Product Portfolio – Technical Data Sheets. Ludwigshafen.
Dow Chemical. (2021). Polyurethanes Solutions for High-Resilience Foam Applications. Midland, MI.
Covestro. (2020). Sustainability Report: Bio-Based Raw Materials in Polyurethane Systems. Leverkusen.
Siebert, P.W., et al. (2021). "Chemical Recycling of Polyurethane Foam Waste via Glycolysis: Yield and Reusability Analysis." Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 29(4), 1233–1245.

No robots were harmed in the making of this article. Just a lot of coffee. ☕

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.

Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol: A Go-To Solution for High-Quality Cushioning and Padding Materials

Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol: The Unsung Hero of Your Couch, Car Seat, and Even Your Yoga Mat 🛋️🚗🧘‍♂️

Let’s talk about something you’ve probably never thought about—yet you’ve hugged it, sat on it, and maybe even cried into it during a late-night binge of The Crown. I’m talking about flexible foam polyether polyol, the quiet chemist behind the comfort revolution. It’s not a household name, but it’s in your household—everywhere. From your mattress to your car’s headrest, from gym mats to baby changing pads, this unassuming polymer is the soft whisper of modern comfort.

So, what is this magical substance? And why should you care? Buckle up—because we’re diving deep into the bubbly, squishy world of polyols.

What Exactly Is Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol?

At its core, polyether polyol is a long-chain organic molecule made by reacting propylene oxide or ethylene oxide with a starter molecule like glycerol or sucrose. Think of it as a molecular tree: the starter is the trunk, and the oxide chains are the branches. The more branches (or “functionality”), the more complex—and useful—the polyol becomes.

When mixed with isocyanates (like TDI or MDI), a little catalyst, and some blowing agents (hello, CO₂!), this polyol transforms into flexible polyurethane foam—the fluffy, springy stuff that makes sitting on a couch feel like floating on a cloud.

But not all polyols are created equal. The flexible foam variety is specifically engineered for softness, resilience, and breathability. It’s the Beyoncé of polyols—versatile, enduring, and always in demand.

Why Polyether? Why Not Polyester?

Ah, the age-old debate: polyether vs. polyester polyols. Let’s settle this once and for all.

Feature	Polyether Polyol	Polyester Polyol
Moisture Resistance	Excellent 💧	Poor (hydrolyzes easily)
Cost	Lower 💵	Higher
Flex Fatigue Resistance	High (great for seating)	Moderate
Biodegradability	Low	Slightly higher
Foam Softness	Softer, more supple	Firmer, more durable
Processing Ease	Easier to handle	More viscous, trickier

Polyester polyols have their place—especially in high-resilience foams or outdoor applications where strength matters. But for everyday comfort? Polyether rules the roost. It’s cheaper, easier to process, and laughs in the face of humidity. Your sofa doesn’t need to be tough—it needs to be inviting.

The Anatomy of a Comfortable Foam: Key Parameters

Let’s geek out a bit. Here are the critical parameters that define a high-performance flexible foam polyether polyol:

Parameter	Typical Range	Significance
Hydroxyl Number (mg KOH/g)	28–56	Measures OH groups; affects cross-linking and foam hardness
Functionality (avg. OH groups/molecule)	2.5–3.0	Higher = more rigid foam; lower = softer, more flexible
Molecular Weight	3,000–6,000 g/mol	Influences viscosity and foam cell structure
Viscosity (cP at 25°C)	300–800	Affects mixing and processing; too high = clumpy foam
Primary OH Content (%)	>70%	Faster reaction with isocyanates → better foam rise
Water Content (ppm)	<0.05%	Too much water = unstable foam or voids

These numbers aren’t just lab jargon—they’re the recipe for comfort. For example, a low hydroxyl number means fewer cross-links, which translates to a softer, more elastic foam—perfect for memory foam mattresses. Meanwhile, a higher functionality polyol might be used in seat cushions that need to bounce back after years of use.

From Lab to Living Room: How It’s Made

The synthesis of polyether polyol is a classic example of anionic polymerization. Here’s how it goes:

A starter molecule (like glycerin) is deprotonated using a strong base (e.g., KOH).
Propylene oxide is added under pressure and heat (100–130°C).
The oxide rings open and attach to the growing chain—like LEGO bricks snapping together.
The reaction is quenched, filtered, and voilà: polyol ready for foam production.

Modern plants use continuous reactors for consistency, but the chemistry hasn’t changed much since the 1950s. It’s a testament to how elegant and efficient this process is.

Fun fact: Some manufacturers now use double metal cyanide (DMC) catalysts instead of KOH. These produce polyols with narrower molecular weight distributions—meaning more uniform foams. It’s like going from a jazz band to a symphony orchestra: same instruments, but way more harmony. 🎻

Real-World Applications: Where You’ll Find It

You’d be surprised how many places this foam sneaks into. Here’s a quick tour:

Application	Why Polyether Polyol Shines
Mattresses & Pillows	Softness, pressure distribution, breathability
Automotive Seating	Durability, vibration damping, low fogging
Upholstered Furniture	Resilience, cost-effectiveness, easy shaping
Carpet Underlay	Noise reduction, thermal insulation
Medical Cushioning	Conforms to body shape, reduces pressure sores
Sports Mats & Gym Flooring	Shock absorption, sweat resistance

In cars, for instance, foam made from polyether polyol must meet strict fogging standards (like DIN 75201). Why? Because you don’t want your windshield turning into a greasy mess from off-gassing. Polyether foams are champs at staying put—chemically speaking.

Sustainability: The Elephant on the (Foam) Sofa

Let’s not ignore the big issue: environmental impact. Traditional polyols are petroleum-based, which isn’t exactly eco-friendly. But the industry isn’t asleep at the wheel.

Recent advances include:

Bio-based polyols from soybean, castor oil, or even algae. Some foams now contain up to 30% renewable content.
Recycled polyol recovery from post-consumer foam waste via glycolysis.
Low-VOC formulations to improve indoor air quality.

A 2022 study by Zhang et al. showed that soy-based polyols could replace up to 40% of conventional polyol in slabstock foam without sacrificing comfort (Zhang et al., Polymer Degradation and Stability, 2022). That’s progress.

Still, challenges remain. Bio-polyols can be more viscous and less reactive. And recycling? It’s promising, but scaling it up is like trying to fit a foam mattress into a Mini Cooper—possible, but messy.

Global Market & Trends: Who’s Making the Foam?

The global flexible polyurethane foam market is projected to hit $60 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research, 2023). Asia-Pacific leads in production, thanks to booming furniture and automotive sectors in China and India.

Key players include:

BASF (Germany) – Innovators in high-performance, low-emission polyols
Covestro (Germany) – Pioneers in water-blown, eco-friendly foams
Dow Chemical (USA) – Leaders in scalable, consistent polyol production
Sinopec (China) – Dominant in cost-effective, high-volume output

Interestingly, automotive OEMs are now specifying foam performance down to the gram. Tesla, for example, uses custom polyols to reduce weight and improve cabin acoustics. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about total vehicle experience.

The Future: Smarter, Greener, Softer

What’s next for polyether polyol? Think smart foams that respond to temperature or pressure. Or self-healing foams that repair micro-cracks over time. Researchers at the University of Leeds are experimenting with nanoclay-reinforced polyols to improve fire resistance without toxic flame retardants (Smith & Patel, Journal of Cellular Plastics, 2021).

And let’s not forget 3D-printed foam structures—customized to your body’s exact contours. Imagine a chair that molds to you, not the other way around. That future is closer than you think.

Final Thoughts: The Quiet Comfort Engineer

Flexible foam polyether polyol may not win beauty contests. It doesn’t have a flashy logo or a viral TikTok dance. But every time you sink into your favorite armchair, take a nap on a memory foam pillow, or enjoy a smooth car ride, you’re experiencing its handiwork.

It’s the unsung chemist of comfort—working silently, efficiently, and brilliantly behind the scenes. So next time you plop down after a long day, give a little mental nod to the polyol. It’s earned it. 🙌

References

Zhang, L., Wang, Y., & Liu, H. (2022). Performance evaluation of soy-based polyols in flexible polyurethane foams. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 195, 109876.
Smith, R., & Patel, A. (2021). Nanocomposite polyurethane foams for enhanced fire resistance. Journal of Cellular Plastics, 57(4), 432–448.
Grand View Research. (2023). Flexible Polyurethane Foam Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report.
Oertel, G. (Ed.). (2014). Polyurethane Handbook (2nd ed.). Hanser Publishers.
Frisch, K. C., & Reegen, M. (1974). The Chemistry and Technology of Polyols for Polyurethanes. ChemTec Publishing.

No foam was harmed in the making of this article. But several chairs were deeply appreciated. 😊

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

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

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.

Ensuring Predictable and Repeatable Polyurethane Reactions with Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol

Ensuring Predictable and Repeatable Polyurethane Reactions with Flexible Foam Polyether Polyol
— Or, How to Tame the Foaming Beast Without Losing Your Hair 🧪

By Dr. Alan Whitmore (not a real doctor, but I’ve read enough MSDS sheets to fake it)

Let’s be honest: working with polyurethane foam is like trying to teach a goldfish to ride a bicycle. It can be done, but one wrong move and you’re left with either a collapsed soufflé or a rigid brick that could double as a doorstop. And at the heart of this temperamental chemistry? Polyether polyols—the unsung heroes (or villains, depending on your batch) of flexible foam production.

If you’ve ever stood in a pilot plant at 2 a.m., staring at a foam that rose too fast, collapsed like a bad joke, or turned yellow like a vintage paperback, you know what I mean. But fear not. With the right polyol, a dash of science, and a pinch of patience, we can turn that chaotic reaction into something as predictable as your morning coffee routine. ☕

The Polyol: Not Just a Pretty Molecule

Polyether polyols are the backbone of flexible polyurethane foams. Think of them as the “dough” in your foam pizza—without good dough, even the best pepperoni won’t save you. These polyols are typically made by polymerizing ethylene oxide (EO) and/or propylene oxide (PO) onto initiators like glycerol, sorbitol, or sucrose. The resulting molecule has multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups that react with isocyanates (usually MDI or TDI) to form the polyurethane network.

But not all polyols are created equal. Some are sweet, some are bitter, and some—well, some just don’t play nice.

The Holy Trinity: Functionality, Molecular Weight, and OH Number

To ensure predictable reactions, you’ve got to know your polyol’s personality. Three key parameters define its behavior:

Parameter	What It Means	Why It Matters	Typical Range (Flexible Foam)
Functionality (f)	Average number of hydroxyl groups per molecule	Controls crosslink density. Too high = brittle foam. Too low = weak foam.	2.5 – 3.0 (glycerol-based)
Molecular Weight (Mw)	Size of the polymer chain	Affects foam softness and reactivity. Higher Mw = softer foam, slower reaction.	3,000 – 6,000 g/mol
OH Number (mg KOH/g)	Measure of hydroxyl group concentration	Directly impacts reactivity with isocyanate. High OH = fast gel, risk of burn.	28 – 56 mg KOH/g

💡 Pro Tip: If your foam is cratering like the moon’s surface, check your OH number. A spike of just 5 mg KOH/g can turn a smooth rise into a volcanic eruption.

According to Ulrich and Klopffer (2008), maintaining tight control over these parameters is critical for batch-to-batch consistency—especially in slabstock foam production where even minor variations can cascade into foam defects.

The Reaction: A Delicate Dance of Chemistry and Timing 💃🕺

The magic (and madness) of PU foam lies in the simultaneous occurrence of two reactions:

Gelling Reaction: Isocyanate + polyol → urethane linkage (builds polymer strength)
Blowing Reaction: Isocyanate + water → CO₂ + urea (creates bubbles)

Get the balance wrong, and you end up with either a dense hockey puck or a foam that rises like a soufflé and collapses like your hopes after a Monday morning meeting.

Here’s where polyol selection becomes everything. A polyol with high EO content (say, >10%) increases hydrophilicity, which speeds up water dispersion and CO₂ generation. That sounds great—until your foam blows out of the mold like a startled octopus.

On the other hand, PO-rich polyols are more hydrophobic, offering slower, more controlled rise profiles. But go too far, and you risk poor cell openness and a foam that feels like a damp sponge.

The Hidden Culprit: Impurities and Batch Variability

You’d think that buying polyol from a reputable supplier means you’re in the clear. Think again.

Even ppm-level impurities—like residual catalysts, aldehydes, or monofunctional species—can wreak havoc. For instance, trace amounts of ethylene glycol (a common byproduct) act as chain terminators, reducing effective functionality and leading to weak, tacky foam.

A study by Oertel (1985) found that a mere 0.1% variation in monol content could shift cream time by up to 15 seconds—enough to turn a perfect foam into a sticky mess. That’s like missing your train by one second and having to wait an hour. Annoying? Yes. Costly? Absolutely.

Recipe for Predictability: Control, Control, and More Control

So how do we wrangle this chaotic chemistry into something repeatable? Here’s my no-nonsense checklist:

1. Source Consistently

Stick to one supplier (or two, max) and demand Certificates of Analysis (CoA) with every batch. Insist on:

OH number ±1 mg KOH/g
Water content < 0.05%
Acid number < 0.05 mg KOH/g
Monol content < 0.5%

2. Monitor Storage Conditions

Polyols are hygroscopic little divas. Leave them open to humid air, and they’ll suck up water like a college student at a free soda fountain. Store in nitrogen-blanketed tanks, keep lids tight, and avoid temperature swings.

🌡️ Rule of thumb: Never let polyol temperature vary by more than ±5°C from batch to batch. Thermal stability affects viscosity, mixing efficiency, and—yes—reaction kinetics.

3. Standardize Your Process

Use the same mixer speed, shot weight, and mold temperature every time. Even a 100 rpm change in impingement mixing can alter nucleation and cell structure.

4. Track Reaction Profiles

Invest in a foam rise profiler or at least a stopwatch and a ruler. Record:

Cream time (start of opacity)
Gel time (loss of fluidity)
Tack-free time
Rise height vs. time

Plotting these helps you spot trends. If gel time suddenly drops, it’s not the isocyanate’s fault—it’s probably your polyol.

Real-World Example: The Case of the Yellow Foam

A client once called me in a panic: “Our foam is turning yellow! It’s supposed to be white!” 🟡

After ruling out amine catalysts and poor ventilation, we traced it back to the polyol. Turns out, the supplier had switched from a sucrose/glycerol blend to a purely glycerol-initiated polyol with higher EO capping. The increased primary hydroxyl content accelerated the reaction, generating more heat—and heat + oxygen + PU = yellowing.

Solution? Switch back to a stable, low-EO-capped polyol and add a dash of antioxidant (e.g., BHT at 0.1%). Problem solved. Client happy. Foam white again. 🎉

Global Perspectives: What’s Cooking in Polyol Labs?

Around the world, researchers are pushing the envelope:

Europe: Focus on low-VOC, bio-based polyols (e.g., from castor oil or sucrose) to meet REACH and EU Green Deal standards. BASF and Covestro lead the charge with products like Pluracol® and Arcol®.
USA: Emphasis on process robustness and automation. Dow’s Voranol™ series is engineered for tight specs and wide processing windows.
Asia: Rapid adoption of high-functionality polyols for molded foams in automotive seats. Japanese firms like NOF Corporation excel in precision polyol synthesis.

According to a 2021 review by Bastani et al. in Progress in Polymer Science, next-gen polyols are being designed with “reactivity fingerprints”—molecular architectures tuned to deliver consistent gel/blow balance across varying process conditions.

Final Thoughts: Foam is Not a Wild Beast—It’s a Well-Trained Pet

Polyurethane foam doesn’t have to be unpredictable. With the right polyether polyol, strict quality control, and a bit of chemical intuition, you can achieve repeatable, high-quality foam runs—day in, day out.

Remember: the polyol isn’t just a raw material. It’s your partner in the reaction. Treat it with respect, understand its quirks, and it’ll reward you with foam so consistent, you could set your watch by it. ⏱️

And if all else fails? Blame the isocyanate. It’s usually the other guy’s fault anyway. 😏

References

Ulrich, H., & Klopffer, W. (2008). Chemistry and Technology of Polyols for Polyurethanes. iSmithers.
Oertel, G. (1985). Polyurethane Handbook. Hanser Publishers.
Bastani, D., et al. (2021). "Recent advances in polyol technology for flexible polyurethane foams." Progress in Polymer Science, 114, 101358.
Endo, T., et al. (2019). "Structure–property relationships in polyether polyols for slabstock foam applications." Journal of Cellular Plastics, 55(3), 245–263.
Trachtenberg, M. (1974). Polyurethanes: Properties and Applications. Applied Science Publishers.

Dr. Alan Whitmore is a fictional persona, but the chemistry is real. No polyols were harmed in the writing of this article—though several were mildly insulted.

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.