Polyurethane elastomer catalysts are substances that accelerate the reaction of isocyanate and polyol in the production of polyurethane elastomers. The catalyst does not take part in the reaction directly, but remains in the elastomer.
There are many types of polyurethane elastomer catalysts, each with advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common catalyst types include:
Tin Carboxylate: Tin carboxylate is the most widely used polyurethane elastomer catalyst. They are effective over a wide temperature range and are relatively inexpensive. However, they can be toxic and cause environmental problems. Amines: Amines are another common polyurethane elastomer catalyst. They are less toxic than tin carboxylates and are less likely to cause environmental concerns. However, they don’t work well over a wide temperature range and can be more expensive. Bismuth carboxylate: Bismuth carboxylate is a relatively new catalyst for polyurethane elastomers. They offer several advantages over tin carboxylates and amines, including lower toxicity and lower environmental impact. However, they are more expensive and not widely available. The choice of catalyst for a particular polyurethane elastomer application depends on many factors, including the desired elastomer properties, the temperature at which the elastomer will be used, and the cost of the catalyst.
Polyurethane elastomers are a group of materials with a wide range of uses. They are used in a variety of products including:
Sealants Adhesives Foam Elastic Coatings Footwear Medical Devices By selecting the appropriate type of isocyanate, polyol, and catalyst, the properties of polyurethane elastomers can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular application.
