Amine Catalyst

What is Amine Catalyst for Polyurethane

Amine catalysts work by accelerating the reaction between the isocyanate group (NCO) and active hydrogen compounds. In polyurethane foam formation, two competing reactions occur: the isocyanate-polyol reaction (gelation) and the isocyanate-water reaction (blowing). Amine catalysts primarily accelerate the blowing reaction, generating CO2 gas that creates the foam cells.

The key characteristic of amine catalysts is their ability to control the balance between gas generation and polymer formation. Strong blowing catalysts like DMEA produce faster gas evolution, resulting in lower density foam. Balanced catalysts like PMDETA allow both reactions to proceed at similar rates, giving better control over foam rise and cell structure.

Light yellow liquid MXC-C18 Zinc Octoate catalyst for polyurethane coatings and elastomers

MXC-C18

MXC-C18 (CAS 7560-83-0) is a tertiary amine co-catalyst used to improve surface curing (skin cure) and increase hardness in polyurethane

Clear light yellow liquid MXC-DPA catalyst in a glass beaker for polyurethane synthesis

MXC-DPA

MXC-DPA (CAS 63469-23-8) is a high-activity, low-emission tertiary amine catalyst featuring reactive hydroxyl groups to provide exceptional odor control and

Clear liquid MXC-F77 catalyst in a glass beaker for advanced polyurethane production

MXC-F77

MXC-70 (CAS 3855-32-1) is a high-performance, low-odor balancing tertiary amine catalyst designed to optimize reaction kinetics and structural integrity in

Clear liquid MXC-R70 specialty catalyst in a glass beaker for advanced polyurethane curing

MXC-R70

MXC-70 (CAS 1739-84-0) is a high-reactivity tertiary amine catalyst that significantly accelerates curing and eliminates surface friability in rigid polyurethane

Clear liquid MXC-C9 specialty catalyst in a glass reagent bottle for advanced polyurethane synthesis

MXC-C9

MXC-9 (CAS 33329-35-0) | (1,3-Propanediamine, N,N-bis[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]-N’,N’-dimethyl-) is a high-purity tertiary amine catalyst designed for polyurethane applications.

High purity white powder MXC-DMI solid catalyst in a glass dish for polyurethane and epoxy curing

MXC-DMI

MXC-DMI (CAS 1739-84-0) | (1,2-dimethylimidazole) is a high-purity crystalline imidazole with the molecular formula C5H8N2. Primarily utilized as a pharmaceutical

Clear liquid MXC-C12 specialty catalyst in a glass beaker for advanced polyurethane formulation

MXC-C12

MXC-C12 (CAS 116680-33-2) | (1-isobutyl-2-methylimidazole) is a specialized imidazole catalyst with the molecular formula C8H14N2. It is highly valued for

Clear light yellow liquid MXC-10 amine catalyst in a glass beaker for balanced polyurethane foam production

MXC-10

MXC-10 (CAS 83016-70-0) | (N,N,N’-trimethyl-N’-hydroxyethyl-bisaminoethylether) is a highly efficient, low-emission reactive blowing catalyst. It is specifically designed for polyether polyurethane

Types of PU Amine Catalyst

Polyurethane foam performance relies on the precise balance between gas generation and polymer cross-linking. To achieve optimal results, our amine catalysts are classified into three main types:

Blowing Catalysts: Accelerate the water-isocyanate reaction to generate gas and reduce foam density.
Gelling Catalysts: Promote the polyol-isocyanate reaction to enhance structural integrity and accelerate curing.
Balanced Catalysts: Synchronize both reactions to provide a stable processing window and uniform cell structure.

How to Choose the Right PU Catalyst

Step 1: Visual Inspection. Check the catalyst’s appearance, focusing on its color, clarity, and whether it is in a liquid or solid state.
Step 2: Request a Sample. Apply for a physical sample to evaluate its basic compatibility with your specific polyurethane formulation.
Step 3: Third-Party Testing. Submit the sample to an independent laboratory to accurately analyze its chemical properties, purity, and reactivity.

Applications of PU Amine Catalysts

Flexible Foams
Used in furniture, mattresses, and car seats.
Catalysts ensure the foam has the desired softness and resilience.
Rigid Foams
Commonly found in building insulation, refrigerators, and freezers.
Catalysts improve foam density and structural integrity, thereby enhancing insulation performance.
Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, and Elastomers
Amine catalysts help improve the strength, elasticity, and adhesive properties of these polyurethane-based products.
Shoe Soles
Catalysts play a crucial role in optimizing the hardness, flexibility, and durability required for these applications.