Amine Catalysts

Surface Reactions and Improvements

Amine catalysts boost surface reaction speed and improve finished product surfaces. They migrate to the foam mold surface. Amine catalysts with hydroxyl groups bond to the polyurethane polymer matrix. This ensures zero-emission during the product’s service life.

Polyurethane Foams: Key Insights

Polyurethane foams are made by reacting polyol, polyisocyanate, and water. Catalysts and other agents help control this process. They balance the gelling and blowing reactions, optimizing foam properties and curing speed.

Catalyst Functions

Tertiary amines, alone or with tin octoate, are common catalysts. They speed up reactions between hydroxyl and isocyanate groups. They also accelerate the blowing reaction between isocyanate and water, forming CO2. Some amines, blocked with carboxylic acids, activate at higher temperatures.