Reaxis^®  C218

Introduction

Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate, is one the most commonly used specialty metal-based catalysts for polyurethanes and silicone condensation reactions. With a long history of usage in a wide range of formulations, Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate is a good benchmark catalyst when starting development work on new formulations. Typically supplied in a neat liquid form, it can be supplied in a wide range of diluents including amines, silanes, and plasticizers.

Applications

Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate is a work-horse catalyst used primarily in polyurethane and silicone chemistries. It also can be used as an esterification and transesterification catalyst. Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate can be used in a wide range of applications within the above mentioned chemistries, including: coatings, adhesives and sealants, elastomers, foams and plastics. Given the lubricious nature of tin metal, Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate is used in select lubricant formulations.

Reactivity

Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate provides for good overall reactivity. In regard to polyurethanes, a good balanced cure is achievable given the presence of both a low tin metal content and large ligand. Thus, a balanced front-end/pot-life and back-end/ final cure reactivity profile can be achieved in for example, 2K polyurethane coatings. Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate, is a carboxylate specialty metal based catalyst that is built with a biobased ligand and thus color formation is possible especially when heat is added or generated. Typical of the organotin carboxylate family of catalysts, Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate will catalyze most polyurethanes reactions; it is primarily selective toward the polyol-isocyanate and water-isocyanate reactions. Reaxis C218/Dibutyltin Dilaurate is hydrolytically stable within typical formulation moisture levels, but this stability will break down with increasing moisture content.