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Polyurethane: A Pivotal Component in Industrial Applications
Polyurethane is an essential polymer, renowned for its versatility and adaptability across a multitude of industrial applications. Its popularity is primarily attributed to its unique chemistry, enabling the fabrication of materials with a vast spectrum of mechanical and physical properties. Thus polyurethanes are used in a wide range of applications including, coatings, adhesive and sealant, plastics and foams.
The adaptability of polyurethane lies in its unique chemistry, which allows for the creation of products with a wide range of hardness, flexibility, and densities[1]. Polyurethanes are primarily produced through the reaction of a polyol (an alcohol with multiple reactive hydroxyl groups) and an isocyanate, often catalyzed by various compounds such as inorganic tin and organotin catalysts[2].
However, the production of polyurethane is a complex process requiring precise control over the specific reactions that occur during polyurethane synthesis. This is where catalysts play a critical role. They help expedite the polyurethane-forming reactions and control the polymer structure, thereby significantly influencing the properties of the resultant polyurethane.[3]
Reaxis Metal-Based Polyurethane Catalysts: Enhancing Efficiency and Performance
Metal based catalysts used in polyurethane synthesis are used to selectively accelerate both polymerization and crosslinking reactions. Tin and bismuth catalysts are ideal for catalyzing the hydroxyl/isocyanate reaction. Zinc catalysts are primarily active for the crosslinking reactions. Functionality of these metal catalysts can be enhanced via ligand selection. For example, sulfur-based ligands enhance the selectivity of the hydroxyl/isocyanate reaction (versus the water reaction) and build in front end reaction delay.
Reaxis offers a wide range of tin, bismuth and zinc catalysts. Common inorganic tin catalysts supplied include REAXIS®C125 (Stannous Neodecanoate) and REAXIS®C129 (Stannous Octoate). Common organotin catalysts supplied include a wide range of octyl-, butyl-, and methyl-based products including REAXIS®C218 (Dibutyltin Dilaurate) REAXIS®C233 (Dibutyltin Diacetate) REAXIS®C216 (Dioctyltin Dilaurate) REAXIS®C325 (Dimethyltin Dineodecanoate) and REAXIS®C228 (Dioctyltin Diacetate). For sulfur-based tin catalysts, we supply REAXIS®C319 (Dibutyltin Dimercaptide) REAXIS®C214 (Dioctyltin bis-(Isooctyl Mercaptoacetate)) and REAXIS®C322 (Dibutyl bis-(Ethylhexyl Mercaptoacetate)). Bismuth catalysts supplied include REAXIS®C716 (Bismuth Neodecanoate) REAXIS®C3210 (Bismuth Octoate) and REAXIS®C739W50 (water soluble sulfur based bismuth). Zinc catalysts offered include REAXIS®C616 (Zinc Neodecanoate) REAXIS®C620 (Zinc Octoate) and REAXIS®C708 (Bismuth/Zinc Neodecanoate).
Reaxis: Your Partner in Polyurethanes
At Reaxis, we are dedicated to providing a wide range of metal based catalysts for polyurethanes. Our comprehensive range of inorganic tin, organotin, bismuth and zinc catalysts can meet the various formulation objectives pertaining to reactivity and environmental/toxicity concerns. With a long history of manufacturing a wide range of metal-based additives and catalysts on commercial scales in combination with new product development and an understanding of polyurethane chemistry, Reaxis is an ideal partner in new formulation development and problem-solving. Our commitment to quality, reliability, and technical support makes us a trusted choice for manufacturers aiming to enhance their product performance and achieve optimal process efficiency.
References
- Polyurethanes. (2022). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/science/polyurethane
- Polyurethane – American Chemistry Council. Available at: https://www.americanchemistry.com/chemistry-in-america/chemistries/polyurethane
- Wiley Research, “Effect of Dibutyltin Dilaurate and Triethanolamine Catalysts on Structure and Properties of Polyimide Foams https://4spepublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/vnl.21707