Reaxis^®  C716 – Bismuth Neodecanoate

Introduction

REAXIS C716®, Bismuth Neodecanoate is one the most commonly used specialty metal-based catalysts for polyurethanes. With a long history of usage in a wide range of formulations, Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate is a good benchmark catalyst when either starting development work on new formulations or looking at using lower toxicity alternatives to organotins. Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate is supplied with excess free neodecanoic acid to control viscosity. It can be supplied in a wide range non-acid diluents including mineral oils, polyols, and esters.

Applications

Like most bismuth carboxylates, Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate in commonly used in polyurethane applications. It is used in a wide range of polyurethane applications including coatings, adhesives and sealants, elastomers, foams and plastics. Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate is used in applications where toxicity concerns are paramount. In addition to use as a polyurethane catalyst, Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate is used in lubricant formulations.

Reactivity

Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate 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. Reactivity, especially in regard to back-end cure, is greatly improved with the addition of added and exothermically generated heat. Typical of the bismuth carboxylate family of catalysts, Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate will catalyze most polyurethanes reactions and is somewhat similar in reactivity to tin-based catalysts; it is primarily selective toward the polyol-isocyanate and water-isocyanate reactions. Reaxis C716, Bismuth Neodecanoate is hydrolytically stable within typical formulation moisture levels, but this stability will break down with increasing moisture content. In general bismuth carboxylates exhibit a lower hydrolytic stability.