Polyurethane Amine Catalysts: A Comprehensive Overview of Major Manufacturers and Product Lines

Abstract: Polyurethane (PU) amine catalysts are crucial components in the production of a wide array of PU products, ranging from flexible foams to rigid elastomers. These catalysts accelerate the reactions between isocyanates and polyols, and often also influence the blowing reaction involving isocyanates and water. This article provides a comprehensive overview of major manufacturers of polyurethane amine catalysts, detailing their product lines, key performance characteristics, and application areas. The information presented is intended to assist polyurethane formulators in selecting the most appropriate catalysts for their specific needs.

Keywords: Polyurethane, Amine Catalyst, Manufacturing, Product Line, Performance, Applications, Tertiary Amine, Blowing Reaction, Gelling Reaction.

1. Introduction

Polyurethane (PU) materials are ubiquitous in modern life, finding applications in construction, automotive, furniture, and numerous other industries. The versatility of PU stems from the diverse range of raw materials and processing techniques that can be employed in their synthesis. At the heart of PU production lies the reaction between an isocyanate component (e.g., diphenylmethane diisocyanate – MDI, toluene diisocyanate – TDI) and a polyol component (e.g., polyester polyols, polyether polyols). This reaction, while thermodynamically favorable, is often kinetically slow at room temperature, necessitating the use of catalysts.

Amine catalysts, particularly tertiary amines, play a vital role in accelerating the isocyanate-polyol (gelling) and isocyanate-water (blowing) reactions. The choice of catalyst significantly influences the final properties of the PU product, affecting parameters such as cell structure, density, cure rate, and overall mechanical performance. Different amine catalysts exhibit varying degrees of selectivity towards the gelling or blowing reaction, allowing formulators to fine-tune the PU process. Furthermore, the volatility and odor of amine catalysts are also important considerations, with manufacturers increasingly focusing on developing low-emission and environmentally friendly alternatives.

This article examines the leading manufacturers of polyurethane amine catalysts and provides a detailed overview of their respective product lines. The information presented is based on publicly available data, technical datasheets, and published literature.

2. Classification and Mechanism of Action of Amine Catalysts

Amine catalysts used in PU foam production can be broadly classified as tertiary amines. These compounds catalyze the isocyanate-polyol and isocyanate-water reactions. The general reaction mechanism involves the amine acting as a nucleophile, abstracting a proton from the hydroxyl group of the polyol or from water, thereby enhancing its reactivity towards the electrophilic isocyanate group.

• Gelling Catalysts: These catalysts primarily promote the reaction between the isocyanate and the polyol, leading to chain extension and crosslinking. Strong gelling catalysts tend to yield faster cure rates and higher crosslink densities. Examples include triethylenediamine (TEDA) and dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA).
• Blowing Catalysts: These catalysts preferentially accelerate the reaction between the isocyanate and water, which generates carbon dioxide (CO2), the primary blowing agent in many PU foam formulations. Examples include bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMAEE) and N,N-dimethylbenzylamine (DMBA).
• Balanced Catalysts: Some amine catalysts exhibit a more balanced catalytic effect, promoting both gelling and blowing reactions. These catalysts are often used in formulations where a delicate balance between cell opening and structural integrity is required. Examples include N-ethylmorpholine (NEM) and N,N-dimethylaminoethoxyethanol (DMAEE).
• Delayed-Action Catalysts: These catalysts are designed to provide a delayed onset of catalytic activity, allowing for better control over the PU foaming process. This can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as blocking the active site of the amine with a removable group or encapsulating the catalyst in a protective matrix.

3. Major Manufacturers and Their Product Lines

The following sections provide an overview of major manufacturers of polyurethane amine catalysts, along with details of their product lines, key performance characteristics, and application areas.

3.1 Evonik Industries AG

Evonik Industries is a global specialty chemicals company with a significant presence in the polyurethane additives market. Their TEGOAMIN® product line comprises a wide range of amine catalysts, including conventional tertiary amines, delayed-action catalysts, and specialty amine blends.

Product Name	Chemical Description	Key Characteristics	Applications
TEGOAMIN® 33	Triethylenediamine (TEDA)	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
TEGOAMIN® BDE	Bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMAEE)	Strong blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, excellent cell opening.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.
TEGOAMIN® DMCHA	Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA)	Gelling catalyst, moderate reactivity, good balance of properties.	Rigid foams, spray foams.
TEGOAMIN® AS 33	Modified Tertiary Amine	Delayed action catalyst, allows for better flow and leveling.	Rigid foams, spray foams, CASE applications
TEGOAMIN® CS Series	Blocked Amine Catalysts	Delayed action, reduces odor, improves foam stability.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
TEGOAMIN® PMD20	Pentamethyldiethylenetriamine	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity, low odor.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
TEGOAMIN® ZF Series	Zero-Emission Amine Catalysts	Virtually no VOC emissions, promotes sustainable PU production.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
TEGOAMIN® AP Series	Amine Phosphates	Buffered catalysts, reduce scorch, improve foam stability.	Rigid and flexible foams, CASE applications.

3.2 Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (Versum Materials)

Air Products, now part of Versum Materials, offers a comprehensive portfolio of polyurethane additives, including amine catalysts marketed under the DABCO® and POLYCAT® brands. Their product line encompasses a wide range of tertiary amines, delayed-action catalysts, and specialty amine blends designed for diverse PU applications.

Product Name	Chemical Description	Key Characteristics	Applications
DABCO® 33-LV	Triethylenediamine (TEDA) solution	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity, excellent handling.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings, CASE applications
DABCO® BL-17	Bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMAEE)	Strong blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, excellent cell opening, good hydrolytic stability.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.
DABCO® BL-22	Balanced amine catalyst blend	Balanced gelling and blowing activity, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.
DABCO® DC Series	Delayed Action Catalysts	Delayed action, reduces odor, improves foam stability.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
DABCO® NE Series	Neutralizing Amine Catalysts	Neutralizes acidic components, improves foam stability, reduces scorch.	Flexible foams, rigid foams, CASE applications
POLYCAT® SA-1/LE	N,N-Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA)	Gelling catalyst, moderate reactivity, good balance of properties, low odor.	Rigid foams, spray foams.
POLYCAT® 5	Pentamethyldiethylenetriamine	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
POLYCAT® 8	N,N-Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol (DMAEE)	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.

3.3 Huntsman Corporation

Huntsman Corporation is a global manufacturer of chemical products, including polyurethane raw materials and additives. Their JEFFCAT® amine catalyst line offers a range of solutions for various PU applications.

Product Name	Chemical Description	Key Characteristics	Applications
JEFFCAT® TD-33	Triethylenediamine (TEDA) solution	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity, excellent handling.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
JEFFCAT® ZF-10	Zero-Emission Amine Catalyst	Virtually no VOC emissions, promotes sustainable PU production.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
JEFFCAT® DMCHA	Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA)	Gelling catalyst, moderate reactivity, good balance of properties.	Rigid foams, spray foams.
JEFFCAT® DPA	Dipropylene Glycol Dimethylamine Ether	Blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, good hydrolytic stability.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.
JEFFCAT® PMDETA	Pentamethyldiethylenetriamine	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
JEFFCAT® ZR-50	Reactive Amine Catalyst	Reactive amine catalyst, incorporated into polymer matrix, reduces emissions.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
JEFFCAT® NEM	N-Ethylmorpholine (NEM)	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.
JEFFCAT® T-110	2-(2-Dimethylaminoethoxy)ethanol	Blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, good hydrolytic stability.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.

3.4 Tosoh Corporation

Tosoh Corporation is a Japanese chemical company that produces a range of polyurethane raw materials and additives, including amine catalysts. Their product line focuses on high-performance catalysts for specific PU applications.

Product Name	Chemical Description	Key Characteristics	Applications
Toyocat-DB20	Bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMAEE)	Strong blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, excellent cell opening.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.
Toyocat-DMCHA	Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA)	Gelling catalyst, moderate reactivity, good balance of properties.	Rigid foams, spray foams.
Toyocat-DTMZ	Dimethyltetramethylguanidine	Strong gelling catalyst, very high reactivity, used in specific applications.	Elastomers, adhesives, sealants.
Toyocat-UF220	Amine blend	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.
Toyocat-RX20	Reactive amine catalyst	Reactive amine catalyst, incorporated into polymer matrix, reduces emissions.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.
Toyocat-DB18	Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol (DMAEE)	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.
Toyocat-MR	Modified Amine Catalyst	Delayed action, reduces odor, improves foam stability.	Automotive seating, flexible foams, low-VOC applications.

3.5 Rhein Chemie Additives (Lanxess AG)

Rhein Chemie Additives, part of Lanxess AG, offers a range of additives for the polyurethane industry, including amine catalysts. Their product line includes conventional tertiary amines and specialty blends.

Product Name	Chemical Description	Key Characteristics	Applications
Addocat 102	Triethylenediamine (TEDA) solution	Strong gelling catalyst, promotes fast cure, high reactivity, excellent handling.	Rigid foams, elastomers, coatings.
Addocat SO	Bis-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMAEE)	Strong blowing catalyst, promotes CO2 generation, excellent cell opening.	Flexible foams, integral skin foams.
Addocat 101	Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA)	Gelling catalyst, moderate reactivity, good balance of properties.	Rigid foams, spray foams.
Addocat 201	N,N-Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol (DMAEE)	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability.	Flexible foams, molded foams.
Addocat EF110	Amine blend	Balanced gelling and blowing catalyst, promotes good cell structure and dimensional stability, low emission.	Flexible foams, molded foams, low-VOC applications.

4. Emerging Trends in Amine Catalysts

Several key trends are shaping the development and application of amine catalysts in the polyurethane industry:

• Low-Emission Catalysts: Stringent environmental regulations and increasing consumer demand for low-VOC products are driving the development of low-emission amine catalysts. These catalysts are designed to minimize the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during PU production and in the final product. Strategies for achieving this include using reactive amines that become chemically bound to the polymer matrix, blocking the amine functionality, or using non-volatile amine salts.
• Delayed-Action Catalysts: Delayed-action catalysts provide formulators with greater control over the PU foaming process. By delaying the onset of catalytic activity, these catalysts allow for improved flow and leveling, reduced surface defects, and enhanced processing flexibility.
• Specialty Amine Blends: Manufacturers are increasingly offering pre-blended amine catalyst systems tailored to specific PU applications. These blends often contain a combination of gelling and blowing catalysts, along with other additives such as surfactants and stabilizers, to provide optimized performance and ease of use.
• Sustainable Catalysts: The focus on sustainability is driving research into bio-based and recyclable amine catalysts. Research is being conducted on using plant-derived amines or developing catalysts that can be easily recovered and reused.

5. Factors Influencing Catalyst Selection

Selecting the appropriate amine catalyst is crucial for achieving the desired properties and performance in the final PU product. Several factors should be considered:

• Type of Polyurethane System: The choice of catalyst will depend on whether the formulation is for a rigid foam, flexible foam, elastomer, coating, or adhesive.
• Desired Reactivity Profile: The catalyst should provide the appropriate balance of gelling and blowing activity to achieve the desired cure rate, cell structure, and density.
• Processing Conditions: The catalyst must be compatible with the processing conditions, including temperature, pressure, and mixing equipment.
• Regulatory Requirements: The catalyst must comply with relevant environmental and safety regulations, including VOC emission limits and exposure limits.
• Cost Considerations: The cost of the catalyst should be balanced against its performance benefits.
• Odor and Volatility: The odor and volatility of the amine catalyst are also important considerations, especially for applications where indoor air quality is a concern. Low-odor, low-VOC catalysts are increasingly preferred.

6. Quality Control and Testing

Manufacturers of amine catalysts employ rigorous quality control procedures to ensure the consistency and purity of their products. Common testing methods include:

• Gas Chromatography (GC): Used to determine the purity and composition of the catalyst.
• Titration: Used to determine the amine content.
• Viscosity Measurement: Used to assess the flow properties of the catalyst.
• Water Content Measurement: Used to determine the moisture content.
• Infrared Spectroscopy (IR): Used to identify the chemical structure of the catalyst.

7. Safety Considerations

Amine catalysts are generally considered to be irritants and should be handled with care. Safety precautions include:

• Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators.
• Working in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoiding contact with skin and eyes.
• Following the manufacturer’s safety data sheet (SDS).
• Proper disposal of waste materials.

8. Conclusion

Polyurethane amine catalysts are essential components in the production of a wide range of PU products. Major manufacturers offer diverse product lines tailored to specific applications and performance requirements. The selection of the appropriate catalyst requires careful consideration of factors such as the type of PU system, desired reactivity profile, processing conditions, regulatory requirements, and cost considerations. Emerging trends in the amine catalyst market include the development of low-emission catalysts, delayed-action catalysts, specialty amine blends, and sustainable catalysts. By understanding the properties and performance characteristics of different amine catalysts, PU formulators can optimize their formulations to achieve the desired properties and performance in the final product while addressing sustainability and environmental concerns.

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