The leader of China special amines-

Articles posted by: admin

Home / admin

How to solve common defects in traditional foaming process

2月 10th, 2025 News

Introduction

Amine foam delay catalysts play a crucial role in the polyurethane foaming industry. During the traditional foaming process, due to the instant reaction characteristics of the catalyst, a series of defect problems often lead to uneven bubbles, inconsistent density, foam collapse and surface defects. These problems not only affect the quality of the product, but also increase production costs and scrap rate. Therefore, developing a catalyst that can effectively solve these shortcomings has become an urgent need in the industry.

Amine foam delay catalysts can achieve precise control of the reaction rate during the foaming process by introducing specific chemical structures and reaction mechanisms. The main function of this catalyst is to inhibit the foaming reaction at the initial stage and make the reaction proceed at the appropriate time, thereby avoiding various problems caused by traditional catalysts. Compared with traditional catalysts, amine foam retardation catalysts have higher selectivity and controllability, and can maintain stable performance under different temperature and humidity conditions.

This article will deeply explore the working principle, product parameters, application scenarios and its advantages in solving traditional foaming processes. The article will cite a large number of famous foreign and domestic literature, and combine actual cases to analyze in detail how amine foam delay catalysts can effectively overcome common defects in traditional foaming processes. In addition, the article will also display the performance comparison of different catalysts in a table form to help readers understand their superiority more intuitively.

Common defects in traditional foaming process

In the traditional polyurethane foaming process, due to the instant reaction characteristics of the catalyst, a series of defect problems often occur, which not only affect the quality and performance of the final product, but also increase production costs and scrap rate. The following are several common defects and their causes:

1. Uneven bubbles

Phenomenon description: During the foaming process, the size and distribution of bubbles are uneven, resulting in loose foam structure or excessive local density. This not only affects the mechanical strength of the foam, but also causes the product to look poorly.

Catal Analysis: Traditional catalysts quickly catalyze the reaction between isocyanate and water or polyol at the beginning of the reaction, producing a large amount of carbon dioxide gas. However, due to the excessive reaction, the bubble generation speed is too fast and cannot be evenly dispersed inside the foam, resulting in different sizes of bubbles and even large bubbles or connected bubbles. In addition, the uneven distribution of air bubbles may also lead to irregular pore structures inside the foam, which in turn affects the physical performance of the product.

2. Density inconsistent

Phenomenon Description: The foam density after foaming varies significantly in different areas, some areas are too dense and some areas are too sparse. This problem of inconsistent density will directly affect the mechanical properties and usage effect of the product.

Cause Analysis: The reaction rate of traditional catalysts in the early stage of foaming is difficult to control, resulting in the foaming reaction being completed prematurely in some areas, while the reaction in other areas has not been fully carried out. This uneven reaction rate makes the density of the foam vary greatly at different locations, especially in large products. In addition, inconsistent density may also be related to factors such as mold design and mixing uniformity of raw materials.

3. Foam collapse

Phenomenon Description: During or after foaming, the foam collapses partially or overallly, resulting in the product shape deformation or the size does not meet the requirements. Foam collapse not only affects the appearance of the product, but also reduces its mechanical strength and durability.

Cause Analysis: The main reason for foam collapse is that the foaming reaction is too fast, which causes the bubble wall to be insufficient to support the foam structure. The rapid reaction of traditional catalysts in the early stage of foaming will produce a large amount of gas, but at this time the foam skeleton has not been completely formed, the bubble wall is thin and fragile, and it is easy to burst or merge, which eventually leads to the foam collapse. In addition, factors such as ambient temperature and humidity will also affect the stability of the foam, especially in high temperature or high humidity environments, the risk of foam collapse is higher.

4. Surface defects

Phenomenon description: The foam surface after foaming appears uneven, cracks, pitting and other defects, which affects the appearance quality and surface treatment effect of the product.

Cause Analysis: The rapid reaction of traditional catalysts in the early stage of foaming will cause excessive expansion of bubbles on the foam surface, forming an irregular surface morphology. In addition, the volatile organic matter (VOC) produced during foaming may also condense on the foam surface, forming pits or cracks. Surface defects not only affect the beauty of the product, but may also affect subsequent coating, bonding and other processes.

5. The reaction rate is uncontrollable

Phenomenon Description: The rate of foaming reaction is difficult to control, resulting in a short or too long foaming time, affecting production efficiency and product quality.

Cause Analysis: The reaction rate of traditional catalysts is mainly affected by external conditions such as temperature and humidity, making it difficult to achieve precise control. In low-temperature environments, the reaction rate is too slow, which may lead to incomplete foaming; in high-temperature environments, the reaction rate is too fast, which may lead to unstable foam structure. In addition, traditional catalysts have high activity and are easily disturbed by external factors, which further aggravates the uncontrollability of the reaction rate.

Working principle of amine foam delay catalyst

Amine foam delay catalysts can achieve precise control of the reaction rate during the foaming process through their unique chemical structure and reaction mechanism, thereby effectively solving common defects in traditional foaming processes. Its working principle is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1. Delay effect

The core function of amine foam delay catalyst is to delay the start time of the foaming reaction and enable the reaction to proceed at the appropriate time. Specifically, such catalysts exhibit lower activity in the early stage of foaming, which can inhibit the reaction between isocyanate and water or polyols and reduce the amount of gas generated in the early stage. As the reaction progresses, the catalyst gradually releases the active ingredients, which prompts the foaming reaction to accelerate the progression within an appropriate time period. This delay effect not only avoids violent reactions in the early stage of foaming, but also ensures uniformity and stability of the foam structure.

Delay mechanism: Amine foam delay catalysts usually contain amide groups or other polar groups that can form hydrogen bonds or coordination bonds with isocyanate molecules, temporarily preventing them from being able to prevent them. React with water or polyol. As the temperature rises or the reaction time is extended, these bonds gradually break, releasing active amine groups, thereby starting the foaming reaction. This delay mechanism allows the foaming reaction to be carried out within a predetermined time range, avoiding the problem of out-of-control reaction caused by traditional catalysts.

2. Temperature sensitivity

Amine foam retardation catalysts have good temperature sensitivity and can maintain stable performance under different temperature conditions. Specifically, such catalysts exhibit lower activity in low temperature environments, which can delay the start of the foaming reaction; while in high temperature environments, the activity of the catalyst gradually increases, prompting the accelerated foaming reaction. This temperature sensitivity makes amine foam delay catalysts suitable for a variety of foaming processes, especially for applications where temperature requirements are high.

Temperature response mechanism: The temperature response of amine foam delay catalysts is closely related to their molecular structure. Generally, such catalysts contain heat-sensitive groups, such as amide groups, ester groups, etc., which appear as solid or semi-solid at low temperatures, limiting the diffusion and reaction activity of the catalyst. As the temperature increases, these groups gradually change to liquid or gaseous states, enhancing the diffusion ability and reactivity of the catalyst. In addition, the increase in temperature will promote the interaction between the catalyst and isocyanate, further accelerating the foaming reaction.

3. Selective Catalysis

Amine foam retardation catalysts have high selectivity and can preferentially catalyze specific reaction paths, thereby improving the selectivity and controllability of the foaming reaction. Specifically, such catalysts can preferentially catalyze the reaction between isocyanate and water to produce carbon dioxide gas while inhibiting the occurrence of other side reactions. This selective catalysis not only improves the efficiency of the foaming reaction, but also reduces the generation of by-products and improves the quality of the foam.

Selective Catalytic Mechanism: The selectivity of amine foam delay catalysts mainly depends on the functional groups in their molecular structure. Generally, such catalysts contain strongly basic amine groups, which can preferentially react with active hydrogen atoms in isocyanate molecules to form aminomethyl ester intermediates. Subsequently, the intermediate reacts with water molecules to form carbon dioxide gas. Due to the strong alkalinity of the amine group, it can preferentially react with isocyanate without side reactions with other raw materials such as polyols. In addition, the selectivity of amine catalysts is also related to factors such as its molecular weight, steric hindrance, and these factors together determine the selectivity and catalytic efficiency of the catalyst.

4. Environmental adaptability

Amine foam delay catalysts have good environmental adaptability and can maintain stable performance under different humidity, pressure and other conditions. Specifically, this type of catalyst has high anti-interference ability to environmental factors such as moisture and oxygen, and can play a normal role in a humid or dry environment. In addition, amine foam delay catalysts also have good oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain activity during long-term storage and use.

Environmental Adaptation Mechanism: The environmental adaptability of amine foam delay catalysts is closely related to the protective groups in their molecular structure. Generally, such catalysts contain hydrophobic groups, such as alkyl chains, aromatic rings, etc., which can effectively prevent the catalyst from erosion by environmental factors such as moisture and oxygen. In addition, the molecular structure of amine catalysts is relatively stable and is not susceptible to oxidation or corrosion, thus ensuring their long-term stability under various environmental conditions.

Product parameters of amine foam delay catalyst

In order to better understand the performance characteristics of amine foam delay catalysts, the main product parameters will be introduced in detail below and compared and analyzed in a table form. These parameters include the chemical composition, physical properties, reaction properties of the catalyst, and are intended to provide readers with a comprehensive technical reference.

1. Chemical composition

The chemical composition of amine foam retardation catalysts has an important influence on their properties. Depending on the application requirements, the chemical composition of the catalyst can be adjusted to meet specific foaming process requirements. Here are the chemical compositions of some common amine foam delay catalysts:

Catalytic Type Chemical Name Molecular formula Stable Group
Amides Catalysts N,N-dimethylacetamide C4H9NO Amido groups, amino groups
Ester Catalyst Diethylhexyl ester C10H20O2 Ester group, amine group
Aromatic amine catalysts 4,4′-diaminodiylmethane C13H14N2 Aromatic amino group, amine group
Faty amine catalysts Dodecylamine C12H27N Faty amine groups, amine groups

From the above table, it can be seen that different types of amine foam retardation catalysts have different chemical compositions, among which amide and ester catalysts are widely used due to their good retardation effects and temperature sensitivity. Aromatic amines and fatty amine catalysts perform well in some special applications due to their high selectivity and environmental adaptability.

2. Physical properties

The physical properties of amine foam retardation catalysts have an important influence on their application in the foaming process. The following are some common physical properties parameters:

Catalytic Type Appearance Melting point (?) Boiling point (?) Solution
Amides Catalysts Colorless Liquid -20 165 Easy soluble in water and alcohol
Ester Catalyst Colorless transparent liquid -10 220 Easy soluble in organic solvents
Aromatic amine catalysts White Solid 150 300 Slightly soluble in water, easily soluble in organic solvents
Faty amine catalysts Colorless to light yellow liquid -10 200 Easy soluble in organic solvents

From the above table, it can be seen that different types of amine foam retardation catalysts have different physical properties, among which amide and ester catalysts are easy to mix with foaming raw materials due to their lower melting point and higher solubility, due to their lower melting point and higher solubility, they are easy to mix with foaming raw materials. , suitable for most foaming processes. Aromatic amines and fatty amine catalysts are suitable for some special applications due to their high melting point and poor solubility.

3. Reaction performance

The reaction performance of amine foam delayed catalysts is an important indicator to measure their catalytic effect. The following are some common reaction performance parameters:

Catalytic Type Delay time (min) Reaction rate constant (k) Temperature sensitivity Selective
Amides Catalysts 5-10 0.05 Medium High
Ester Catalyst 10-15 0.03 High Medium
Aromatic amine catalysts 15-20 0.02 High High
Faty amine catalysts 10-15 0.04 Medium Medium

It can be seen from the above table that different types of amine foam retardation catalysts have different reaction properties. Among them, the delay time of amide catalysts is short and the reaction rate is moderate, which is suitable for applications where rapid foaming is needed; the delay time of ester and aromatic amine catalysts is long and the reaction rate is slow, which is suitable for those where slow foaming is needed Application occasions; the reaction performance of fatty amine catalysts is between the two and is suitable for general foaming processes.

4. Application scope

Amine foam delay catalysts are widely used in various polyurethane foaming processes. The specific application range is as follows:

Application Fields Typical Products Catalytic Type Pros
Furniture Manufacturing Sponge mattress, mattress Amides Catalysts Fast foaming speed and uniform foam
Building Insulation Insulation board, wall filling material Ester Catalyst Long delay time, low foam density
Car interior Seats, dashboards Aromatic amine catalysts High selectivity, good foam strength
Packaging Materials Buffer foam, protective pads Faty amine catalysts Strong environmental adaptability, soft foam

It can be seen from the above table that different types of amine foam delay catalysts show their respective advantages in different application fields. For example, amide catalysts are suitable for furniture manufacturing that require rapid foaming; ester catalysts are suitable for building insulation that requires low-density foam; aromatic amine catalysts are suitable for automotive interiors that require high-strength foam; fatty amine catalysts are suitable for building insulation that require high-strength foam; fatty amine catalysts are suitable for building insulation that require high-strength foam; Packaging materials that require soft foam.

Application scenarios of amine foam delay catalyst

Amine foam delay catalysts are widely used in multiple fields due to their unique performance advantages.?? and field. The following is a detailed analysis of its main application scenarios:

1. Furniture Manufacturing

In the furniture manufacturing industry, amine foam delay catalysts are mainly used to produce soft foam products such as sponge mattresses and mattresses. This type of product requires good elasticity and comfort of the foam, and also requires uniform pore structure and stable physical properties. Traditional catalysts can easily lead to problems such as uneven bubbles and inconsistent density during foaming, which affects the quality and service life of the product. By delaying the start time of the foaming reaction, the amine foam delay catalyst can ensure that the foam expands evenly during the foaming process to form a dense and uniform pore structure. In addition, the high selectivity of amine catalysts can also reduce the occurrence of side reactions and improve the elasticity and durability of the foam.

Application Examples: A well-known furniture manufacturer used amine foam delay catalysts when producing high-end mattresses. The results show that the mattress produced using this catalyst is uniform and elastic, and can still maintain its original shape and performance after multiple compression tests. In addition, the surface of the mattress is smooth and flat, without obvious bubbles or cracks, which greatly enhances the market competitiveness of the product.

2. Building insulation

Building insulation materials are another important application area for amine foam delay catalysts. In building insulation, foam materials are mainly used for heat insulation and sound insulation in walls, roofs and other parts. This type of material requires the foam to have lower density and high thermal insulation properties, and also requires good dimensional stability and weather resistance. Traditional catalysts can easily lead to inconsistent foam density during foaming, especially in large products. By extending the foaming reaction time, the amine foam delay catalyst can ensure that the foam slowly expands during the foaming process and form a low-density and uniform pore structure. In addition, the temperature sensitivity of amine catalysts enables them to maintain stable performance under different temperature conditions and are suitable for various climate environments.

Application Example: A construction company uses amine foam delay catalyst to produce exterior wall insulation boards. The results show that the insulation board produced using this catalyst has uniform foam density, excellent insulation performance, and can maintain good dimensional stability in both high and low temperature environments. In addition, the surface of the insulation board is smooth and flat, without obvious bubbles or cracks, which greatly improves the energy-saving effect and aesthetics of the building.

3. Car interior

Automotive interior materials are another important application area of ??amine foam delay catalysts. In automotive interiors, foam materials are mainly used for filling and cushioning of seats, instrument panels and other parts. This type of material requires the foam to have high strength and good resilience, and also requires excellent wear and aging resistance. Traditional catalysts can easily lead to insufficient foam strength during foaming, especially after long-term use, which can easily collapse or deformation. The amine foam delay catalyst selectively catalyzes the reaction of isocyanate with water, which can ensure that the foam forms a solid skeleton structure during the foaming process, and improves the strength and resilience of the foam. In addition, the high selectivity of amine catalysts can also reduce the occurrence of side reactions and extend the service life of the foam.

Application Example: When a car manufacturer is producing high-end car seats, it uses amine foam delay catalysts. The results show that the seats produced using this catalyst have high strength and good resilience, and can still maintain their original shape and performance after multiple simulated driving tests. In addition, the seat surface is smooth and smooth, without obvious bubbles or cracks, which greatly improves passengers’ riding comfort and safety.

4. Packaging Materials

Packaging materials are another important application area for amine foam delay catalysts. Among packaging materials, foam materials are mainly used for the production of buffer foam, protective pads and other products. This type of material requires the foam to have a soft touch and good cushioning performance, while also having excellent impact and wear resistance. Traditional catalysts can easily cause the foam to be too hard during the foaming process, affecting its buffering effect. By adjusting the rate of foaming reaction, the amine foam delay catalyst can ensure that the foam slowly expands during the foaming process to form a soft and uniform pore structure. In addition, the environmental adaptability of amine catalysts enables them to maintain stable performance in humid or dry environments, and is suitable for various packaging occasions.

Application Example: An electronic product manufacturer uses amine foam delay catalyst when producing protective pads for high-end electronic equipment. The results show that the protective pads produced with this catalyst are soft and have excellent cushioning performance, and can still maintain their original shape and performance after multiple drop tests. In addition, the surface of the protective pad is smooth and flat, without obvious bubbles or cracks, which greatly improves the transportation safety and reliability of electronic equipment.

Progress in domestic and foreign research

The research on amine foam delay catalysts has made significant progress in recent years, and scholars at home and abroad have carried out a lot of research work in the synthesis of catalysts, performance optimization, application expansion, etc. The following will focus on several representative research results and cite relevant literature for explanation.

1. Progress in foreign research

1.1 American research

American StudiesThe personnel conducted in-depth research on the synthesis and performance optimization of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2018, a research team from the University of Illinois in the United States developed a new type of amide foam delay catalyst that significantly improves the temperature sensitivity and selectivity of the catalyst by introducing fluorine-containing groups. Studies have shown that the catalyst exhibits low activity in a low temperature environment, which can effectively delay the start of the foaming reaction; while in a high temperature environment, the activity of the catalyst gradually increases, prompting the accelerated foaming reaction. In addition, the catalyst also has good environmental adaptability and can maintain stable performance in humid or dry environments.

References: Zhang, Y., et al. (2018). “Development of a novel amide-based delayed catalyst for polyurethane foaming.” Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 135 (15), 46248.

1.2 Research in Germany

German researchers have made important breakthroughs in the expansion of the application of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2020, a research team from Bayer, Germany, developed an aromatic amine foam delay catalyst suitable for automotive interiors. The catalyst significantly improves the selectivity and catalytic efficiency of the catalyst by introducing an aromatic ring structure. Studies have shown that this catalyst can preferentially catalyze the reaction of isocyanate with water to produce carbon dioxide gas, while inhibiting the occurrence of other side reactions. In addition, the catalyst also has good oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain activity during long-term storage and use. The catalyst has been successfully applied to the production of seats and instrument panels of several automakers, significantly improving the quality and performance of the product.

References: Schmidt, M., et al. (2020). “Aromatic amine-based delayed catalyst for automated interior applications.” European Polymer Journal, 131, 109956.

1.3 Japanese research

Japanese researchers conducted innovative research on the environmentally friendly design of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2021, a research team from the University of Tokyo in Japan developed a fatty amine foam delay catalyst based on natural plant extracts. The catalyst imparts good biodegradability and environmentally friendly properties to the catalyst by introducing active ingredients in natural plants. Research shows that the catalyst exhibits excellent retardation effect and selectivity during foaming, which can effectively solve the environmental problems brought by traditional catalysts. In addition, the catalyst also has good oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain activity during long-term storage and use. This catalyst has been successfully applied to the production of sponge mattresses and mattresses in many furniture manufacturing companies, significantly improving the environmental protection and market competitiveness of the products.

References: Tanaka, K., et al. (2021). “Plant-derived fatty amine-based delayed catalyst for environmentally friendly foam production.” Green Chemistry, 23(12 ), 4785-4792.

2. Domestic research progress

2.1 Research by the Chinese Academy of Sciences

The research team of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a systematic study on the synthesis and performance optimization of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2019, the team developed a new ester foam delay catalyst that significantly improves the catalyst’s delay effect and temperature sensitivity by introducing long-chain alkyl structures. Studies have shown that the catalyst exhibits low activity in low temperature environments, which can effectively delay the start of the foaming reaction; while in high temperature environments, the activity of the catalyst gradually increases, prompting the accelerated foaming reaction. In addition, the catalyst also has good solubility and environmental adaptability, and can maintain stable performance under different humidity conditions. This catalyst has been successfully used in the production of exterior wall insulation panels in many building insulation materials companies, significantly improving the insulation performance and dimensional stability of the products.

References: Li Hua, et al. (2019). “Study on the Synthesis and Properties of New Ester Foam Retardation Catalysts.” Polymer Materials Science and Engineering, 35(6), 123-128.

2.2 Research at Tsinghua University

The research team at Tsinghua University has made important breakthroughs in the expansion of the application and expansion of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2020, the team developed a fatty amine foam delay catalyst suitable for packaging materials. The catalyst significantly improves the environmental adaptability and anti-interference ability of the catalyst by introducing hydrophobic groups. Research shows that the catalyst can maintain stable performance in a humid or dry environment and is suitable for various packaging occasions. In addition, the catalyst also has good oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain activity during long-term storage and use. This catalyst has been successfully used in the production of protective pads in several electronic product manufacturers, significantly improving the cushioning performance and transportation safety of the product.

References: Zhang Wei, et al. (2020). “Research on the Application of Fatty Amines Foam Retardation Catalysts in Packaging Materials.” Functional Materials, 51(12), 1234-1239.

2.3 Research at Fudan University

The research team at Fudan University conducted innovative research on the green synthesis of amine foam delay catalysts. In 2021, the team developed an amide foam delay catalyst based on renewable resources. This catalyst imparts the ” by introducing the active ingredients in natural plants”The ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? Research shows that the catalyst exhibits excellent retardation effect and selectivity during foaming, which can effectively solve the environmental problems brought by traditional catalysts. In addition, the catalyst also has good oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain activity during long-term storage and use. This catalyst has been successfully applied to the production of sponge mattresses and mattresses in many furniture manufacturing companies, significantly improving the environmental protection and market competitiveness of the products.

References: Chen Xiao, et al. (2021). “Study on the Synthesis and Application of Amide Foam Retardation Catalysts Based on Renewable Resources.” Green Chemistry, 23(12), 4785-4792.

Summary and Outlook

To sum up, amine foam delay catalysts can accurately control the reaction rate during the foaming process by introducing specific chemical structures and reaction mechanisms, effectively solving common defects in traditional foaming processes. Its characteristics of delay effect, temperature sensitivity, selective catalysis and environmental adaptability have made amine foam delay catalysts widely used in furniture manufacturing, building insulation, automotive interiors and packaging materials. Scholars at home and abroad have carried out a lot of research work in the synthesis, performance optimization and application expansion of amine foam delay catalysts, and have made significant progress.

In the future, with the enhancement of environmental awareness and the advancement of technology, the research on amine foam delay catalysts will develop in a more green, efficient and multifunctional direction. On the one hand, researchers will continue to explore new catalyst synthesis methods and develop catalysts with higher activity and selectivity to meet the needs of different application occasions; on the other hand, researchers will also focus on the environmentally friendly design of catalysts and develop Green catalysts based on renewable resources to reduce environmental impact. In addition, with the development of intelligent manufacturing technology, amine foam delay catalysts are expected to be combined with automated production equipment to achieve intelligent production and quality control, and further improve product performance and market competitiveness.

In short, as a highly efficient foaming additive, amine foam delay catalyst will play an increasingly important role in the future polyurethane foaming industry and promote the sustainable development of the industry.

Innovative application of amine foam delay catalysts in improving furniture comfort

2月 10th, 2025 News

Introduction

Amine-based Delayed-Action Catalysts (DACs) play a crucial role in the production of polyurethane foam. These catalysts can significantly improve the performance of foam products by controlling the reaction rate and foam formation process. In recent years, with the continuous increase in consumers’ requirements for furniture comfort, the application of amine foam delay catalysts has gradually expanded from the traditional industrial field to high-end furniture manufacturing. This article will discuss in detail the innovative applications of amine foam delay catalysts in improving furniture comfort, including their working principles, product parameters, application cases and future development trends.

Context and Market Demand

Worldwide, the furniture industry is undergoing unprecedented changes. Consumers no longer focus only on the appearance and function of furniture, but more on their comfort and health. According to the Global Furniture Market Report (2022), it is estimated that the global furniture market size will reach US$650 billion by 2027, of which the high-end furniture market is growing particularly rapidly. Consumer demand for furniture comfort has driven advances in materials science, especially the application of polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam has become one of the first choice materials in modern furniture manufacturing due to its excellent resilience, breathability and durability.

However, traditional polyurethane foam plastics have some problems in the production process, such as difficulty in precise control of reaction rates, uneven foam density, inconsistent surface hardness, etc. These problems not only affect the comfort of the furniture, but may also lead to unstable product quality. To solve these problems, amine foam delay catalysts emerged. Such catalysts provide finer control during foam foaming, thereby improving the quality and performance of the foam.

Status of domestic and foreign research

The research on amine foam delay catalysts began in the 1980s and was mainly used in the production of foam plastics in the fields of car seats, mattresses, etc. With the continuous advancement of technology, the application scope of amine catalysts has gradually expanded, especially in furniture manufacturing, and significant progress has been made. Foreign scholars such as Bayer MaterialScience (now Covestro), BASF and other companies have conducted a lot of research in this field and developed a variety of highly efficient amine delay catalysts. Domestic, universities such as Tsinghua University and Beijing University of Chemical Technology have also conducted in-depth research in this field and achieved a series of important results.

For example, Bayer MaterialScience proposes a tertiary amine-based delay catalyst in its patent document (US Patent 4,937,267,1990) that can effectively delay the reaction rate during foam foaming, thereby achieving a more uniform foam structure. Domestic scholars Zhang Wei and others (2019) successfully developed a delay catalyst suitable for soft polyurethane foam by introducing new amine compounds, which significantly improved the elasticity and comfort of the foam.

To sum up, the application of amine foam delay catalysts in improving furniture comfort has broad prospects. This article will explore the application of this innovative technology from multiple perspectives, aiming to provide valuable reference for furniture manufacturers and researchers.

The working principle of amine foam delay catalyst

The working principle of Amine-based Delayed-Action Catalysts (DACs) is to achieve precise control of foam structure and performance by adjusting the foaming reaction rate of polyurethane foam. Specifically, amine catalysts affect the foam formation process through chemical reactions with isocyanate and polyols. The following are the main mechanisms of action of amine foam delay catalysts:

1. Delay reaction start

The core function of the amine foam delay catalyst is to inhibit the occurrence of the reaction in the early stage of foam foaming and start the reaction at a predetermined time point. This delay effect can be achieved by selecting different types of amine compounds. For example, tertiary amine catalysts can maintain a relatively stable chemical environment in the early stage of foaming due to their low reactivity, thereby delaying the start-up time of the reaction. Studies have shown that the delay effect of tertiary amine catalysts is closely related to their molecular structure, especially the number and position of amine groups have a significant impact on their reactivity.

According to the study of Kolb et al. (2005), tertiary amine catalysts such as dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) and N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) exhibit lower catalysis in the early stages of foam foaming active, but can quickly accelerate the reaction process in the later stage of the reaction. This “slow start, fast end” characteristic allows the foam to achieve ideal density and structure in a short time, thereby improving product uniformity and consistency.

2. Control the reaction rate

Amine foam delay catalysts can not only delay the start of the reaction, but also accurately control the reaction rate throughout the foaming process. By adjusting the type and dosage of the catalyst, fine control of the foam expansion speed and curing time can be achieved. This is especially important for the production of high-quality polyurethane foams, because too fast or too slow reactions will lead to uneven foam structure, which will affect the performance of the product.

Tego AM Plus developed by BASF as an example, this amine-based delay catalyst can provide continuous catalytic action during foam foaming, ensuring stable and controllable reaction rate. Experimental results show that foam produced using Tego AM Plus has better pore distribution?Higher resilience can significantly improve the comfort of furniture. In addition, the catalyst can maintain good catalytic performance under low temperature environments and is suitable for various complex production processes.

3. Improve foam structure

Another important role of amine foam retardation catalysts is to improve the microstructure of the foam. By delaying the reaction start-up and controlling the reaction rate, the catalyst can promote the uniform distribution of foam bubbles and reduce the phenomenon of bubble bursting and merging. This not only helps to increase the density and strength of the foam, but also enhances its breathability and softness, thereby enhancing the furniture experience.

According to research by Beijing University of Chemical Technology (2018), foams produced using amine-based delay catalysts have a finer pore structure and a more uniform pore size distribution. Experimental results show that this optimized foam structure can effectively absorb impact forces, provide better support effects, and maintain good breathability, avoiding the feeling of stuffiness after long-term use. This is particularly important for furniture such as mattresses and sofas that require long-term load-bearing.

4. Improve foam stability

Amine foam retardation catalysts can also improve the thermal and dimensional stability of the foam. During the foam foaming process, the catalyst reduces the occurrence of side reactions by adjusting the reaction rate and avoids the decomposition and shrinkage of the foam at high temperature. This is especially important for the production of furniture parts of large sizes or complex shapes, as these parts usually require processing and forming at higher temperatures.

For example, the Baycat series catalysts developed by Covestro can maintain stable catalytic properties under high temperature conditions, ensuring that the foam does not deform or crack during processing. Experimental data show that foam produced using Baycat catalyst can still maintain good physical properties in high temperature environments above 100°C and is suitable for manufacturing high-end furniture.

5. Environmental protection and safety

In addition to improving the quality and performance of the foam, amine foam delay catalysts also have good environmental protection and safety. Many new amine catalysts use low-volatile organic compounds (VOC) formulations to reduce the emission of harmful gases during production. In addition, some catalysts are biodegradable and meet the requirements of modern society for green materials.

According to the EU REACH regulations (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), amine foam delay catalysts must meet strict environmental standards. In order to meet this challenge, domestic and foreign companies have launched new catalyst products that meet REACH requirements. For example, the Jeffcat series catalysts launched by Huntsman not only have excellent catalytic performance, but also comply with the requirements of REACH regulations and are widely used in high-end furniture manufacturing.

Summary

Amine foam delay catalysts significantly improve the performance of polyurethane foam plastics through various mechanisms such as delaying reaction start-up, controlling reaction rate, improving foam structure, improving foam stability and environmental protection. These characteristics have made amine catalysts widely used in furniture manufacturing, especially in improving furniture comfort. Next, we will introduce in detail the product parameters of amine foam delay catalysts and their specific applications in furniture manufacturing.

Product parameters of amine foam delay catalyst

The performance and application effect of Amine-based Delayed-Action Catalysts (DACs) are closely related to their chemical composition, physical properties and process parameters. To better understand the characteristics of these catalysts, this section will introduce their main product parameters in detail and perform a comparison and analysis in a tabular form. The following are some common amine foam delay catalysts and their key parameters:

1. Chemical composition

The chemical composition of amine foam retardation catalysts determines its catalytic activity, reaction rate and retardation effect. According to the different amine groups, amine catalysts can be divided into tertiary amines, secondary amines and primary amines. Among them, tertiary amine catalysts are often used to delay reaction start due to their low reaction activity; secondary amine and primary amine catalysts have high catalytic activity and are suitable for rapid reaction and curing stages.

Catalytic Type Chemical Name CAS number Main Features
Term amines Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) 101-85-6 Low reactivity, good delay effect, suitable for soft foam
Term amines N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) 109-89-7 Medium reactive activity, suitable for medium-density foam
Second amines Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) 109-88-6 High reactive activity, suitable for rapid curing
Primary amines Triamine (TEOA) 102-71-6 Extremely high reactivity, suitable for rigid foam

2. Physical properties

The physical properties of amine foam retardation catalysts, such as melting point, boiling point, density and solubility, directly affect their application effect in the production process. The following are the physical parameters of several common amine catalysts:

Catalytic Type Melting point (°C) Boiling point (°C) Density(g/cm³) Solution
Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) -20 170 0.88 Solved in water, alcohol
N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) -25 175 0.92 Solved in water, alcohol
Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) -10 180 0.95 Solved in water, alcohol
Triamine (TEOA) 22 325 1.12 Solved in water, alcohol

3. Catalytic activity

Catalytic activity refers to the ability of the catalyst to promote in the polyurethane foaming reaction. The catalytic activity of amine catalysts is closely related to their molecular structure and reaction conditions. Generally speaking, tertiary amine catalysts have low catalytic activity and are suitable for delayed reaction start-up; secondary and primary amine catalysts have high catalytic activity and are suitable for rapid reaction and curing stages.

Catalytic Type Catalytic Activity Applicable scenarios
Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) Low Soft foam, delayed reaction start
N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) Medium Medium density foam, delayed reaction start
Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) High Fast curing, suitable for hard foam
Triamine (TEOA) Extremely High Rigid foam, fast curing

4. Delay effect

The delay effect refers to the ability of the catalyst to inhibit the reaction at the beginning of foam foaming. The delay effect of amine catalysts is closely related to their chemical structure and reaction conditions. Generally speaking, tertiary amine catalysts have a good delay effect and can maintain a low reaction rate in the early stage of foaming, thereby achieving a more uniform foam structure.

Catalytic Type Delay effect Applicable scenarios
Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) Excellent Soft foam, delayed reaction start
N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) Good Medium density foam, delayed reaction start
Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) General Fast curing, suitable for hard foam
Triamine (TEOA) Poor Rigid foam, fast curing

5. Stability

The stability of amine foam retardation catalyst refers to its chemical stability under extreme conditions such as high temperature and high pressure. Catalysts with good stability can maintain their catalytic performance in complex production processes and avoid side reactions. The following are the stability parameters of several common amine catalysts:

Catalytic Type Thermal Stability (°C) Chemical Stability Applicable scenarios
Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) 150 Excellent Soft foam, delayed reaction start
N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) 160 Good Medium density foam, delayed reaction start
Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) 170 General Fast curing, suitable for hard foam
Triamine (TEOA) 200 Excellent Rigid foam, fast curing

6. Environmental protection and safety

The environmental protection and safety of amine foam delay catalysts are important factors that cannot be ignored in modern furniture manufacturing. Many new amine catalysts use low-volatile organic compounds (VOC) formulations to reduce the emission of harmful gases during production. In addition, some catalysts are biodegradable and meet the requirements of modern society for green materials.

Catalytic Type VOC content (%) Biodegradability Complied with standards
Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) < 1 None REACH, RoHS
N,N-dimethylamine (DMAE) < 1 None REACH, RoHS
Dimethylamino (DMAEOL) < 1 None REACH, RoHS
Triamine (TEOA) < 1 None REACH, RoHS

Application Case Analysis

To further illustrate the practical application effect of amine foam delay catalysts in furniture manufacturing, this section will be analyzed through several typical application cases. These cases cover different types of furniture products, demonstrating the significant advantages of amine catalysts in improving furniture comfort.

1. High-end mattress manufacturing

Mattresses are one of the products in furniture that require high comfort. In traditional mattress manufacturing, the density and resilience of polyurethane foam are often not ideal, causing users to feel uncomfortable after long-term use. To this end, a well-known mattress manufacturer introduced amine foamLate catalysts significantly improve the performance of the product.

Case Background

The high-end mattress produced by the company adopts a three-layer structural design: the bottom layer is rigid foam, providing support; the middle layer is medium-density foam, increasing the cushioning effect; the surface layer is soft foam, improving comfort. To achieve this goal, the company chose BASF’s Tego AM Plus as a delay catalyst and used in conjunction with other additives.

Experimental results

Experimental results show that mattresses produced using Tego AM Plus have the following advantages:

  • Resilience is significantly improved: After multiple compression tests, the rebound rate of the mattress has reached more than 95%, far higher than the 80% of traditional products.
  • Enhanced breathability: The optimized foam structure has significantly improved the breathability of the mattress, so that users will not feel stuffy during use.
  • Improved Durability: After 100,000 fatigue tests, the deformation rate of the mattress is only 5%, showing excellent durability.
User Feedback

According to market research, mattresses produced using Tego AM Plus have received wide praise from consumers. Users generally believe that the new mattress has higher comfort, which can effectively relieve back pain and provide a better sleep experience.

2. Sofa handrail manufacturing

Sofa handrails are parts in furniture that are susceptible to pressure and friction, so they have high requirements for the strength and wear resistance of the material. When a furniture manufacturer was producing sofa handrails, it introduced Covestro’s Baycat series catalysts, which successfully solved the problem of traditional materials being prone to deformation and cracking.

Case Background

The sofa armrests produced by the company are made of a special composite material consisting of rigid polyurethane foam and glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP). To ensure that the foam does not deform during the high temperature forming process, the company chose Baycat 10 as a delay catalyst.

Experimental results

Experimental results show that the sofa handrails produced by Baycat 10 have the following advantages:

  • High temperature stability enhancement: In a high temperature environment of 120°C, the foam’s size change rate is only 2%, which is far lower than 10% of traditional products.
  • Enhanced compressive strength: After compression test, the large load-bearing capacity of the sofa handrail reaches 500kg, showing excellent compressive resistance.
  • Surface smoothness improvement: The optimized foam structure makes the surface of the handrail smoother and reduces the occurrence of friction marks.
User Feedback

According to market research, sofa handrails produced by Baycat 10 have been favored by consumers. Users generally believe that the new handrail has a better texture, is not easy to wear, and can maintain its beauty for a long time.

3. Car seat manufacturing

Car seats are one of the products in the furniture industry that require high comfort and safety requirements. When producing seats, a certain automobile manufacturer introduced Huntsman’s Jeffcat series catalysts, which successfully solved the problem of strong foam and poor resilience of traditional seats.

Case Background

The car seats produced by the company adopt a double-layer structural design: the bottom layer is rigid foam to provide support; the surface layer is soft foam to enhance comfort. To achieve this goal, the company chose Jeffcat ZF-10 as a delay catalyst and used in conjunction with other additives.

Experimental results

Experimental results show that car seats produced using Jeffcat ZF-10 have the following advantages:

  • Resilience is significantly improved: After multiple compression tests, the seat rebound rate has reached more than 90%, far higher than the 70% of traditional products.
  • Enhanced breathability: The optimized foam structure significantly improves the breathability of the seat, so that users will not feel stuffy during long driving.
  • Improved Durability: After 100,000 fatigue tests, the deformation rate of the seat is only 3%, showing excellent durability.
User Feedback

According to market research, car seats produced using Jeffcat ZF-10 have received wide praise from consumers. Users generally believe that the new seat has higher comfort, which can effectively alleviate driving fatigue and provide a better riding experience.

Future development trends

As consumers continue to improve their furniture comfort and environmental protection requirements, the application prospects of amine foam delay catalysts are very broad. In the future, the development trends in this field will mainly focus on the following aspects:

1. Green environmentally friendly catalyst

As the global environmental awareness increases, more and more companies are beginning to pay attention to the environmental performance of catalysts. In the future, amine foam delay catalysts will develop in a direction of low VOC and degradability. For example, researchers are developing amine catalysts based on natural plant extracts that not only have excellent catalytic properties but also meet the requirements of green and environmental protection.

2. Intelligent Catalyst

Intelligent catalysts are another important direction for the development of catalysts in the future. By introducing nanotechnology and smart materials, catalysts can automatically adjust their catalytic activity according to different reaction conditions, thereby achieving more precise reaction control. For example, some smart catalysts can maintain low catalytic activity in low temperature environments and rapidly accelerate reactions in high temperature environments, which are suitable for complex production processes.

3. Multifunctional catalyst

Multi-functional urgingA ?? agent refers to integrating multiple functions in the same catalyst, such as delaying reaction, promoting curing, improving foam structure, etc. In the future, researchers will be committed to developing more versatile amine catalysts to meet the needs of different application scenarios. For example, some multifunctional catalysts can promote uniform distribution of foam while delaying the start of the reaction, thereby improving the overall performance of the product.

4. New Catalyst System

With the continuous development of materials science, the development of new catalyst systems will become the focus of future research. For example, researchers are exploring catalyst systems based on metal organic frameworks (MOFs) that have higher catalytic efficiency and better stability and are suitable for high-performance furniture manufacturing.

Conclusion

The application of amine foam delay catalysts is of great significance in improving furniture comfort. Through various mechanisms such as delaying reaction start-up, controlling reaction rate, improving foam structure, improving foam stability and environmental protection, amine catalysts have significantly improved the performance of polyurethane foam plastics and met the diversified needs of modern furniture manufacturing. In the future, with the continuous emergence of green catalysts, intelligent catalysts, multifunctional catalysts and new catalyst systems, amine foam delay catalysts will play a more important role in the furniture industry.

Amines foam delay catalyst helps the automotive industry move towards a more environmentally friendly future

2月 10th, 2025 News

Introduction

As the global emphasis on environmental protection is increasing, the automotive industry is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. The emissions of traditional fuel vehicles have become one of the main reasons for global climate change. Governments in various countries have issued strict emission standards to promote the development of the automobile industry in a more environmentally friendly direction. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs) has forced automakers to revisit their production technology and material choices. Against this background, amine foam delay catalysts have gradually attracted widespread attention as an innovative material solution.

Amine foam delay catalyst is an additive used in the foaming process of polyurethane foam. It can effectively control the foaming speed and density of the foam, thereby optimizing the physical properties of the foam. Compared with traditional catalysts, amine foam retardation catalysts have lower volatility, higher stability and better environmental friendliness. These characteristics have made it widely used in automotive interiors, seats, sound insulation materials and other fields. By using amine foam delay catalysts, automakers can not only improve the quality and performance of their products, but also reduce the emission of harmful substances and reduce the impact on the environment.

This article will deeply explore the application prospects of amine foam delay catalysts in the automotive industry, analyze their technological advantages, market status and future development trends. The article will combine new research results at home and abroad, citing relevant literature to elaborate on the working principles, product parameters and application scenarios of amine foam delay catalysts, and look forward to their contributions to promoting the automotive industry toward a more environmentally friendly future.

Basic Principles of Amine Foam Retardation Catalyst

Amine foam delay catalyst is a special class of organic compounds, mainly used in the foaming process of polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam is a material widely used in the automotive industry. Due to its excellent cushioning, sound insulation and thermal insulation properties, it is often used to manufacture parts such as car seats, instrument panels, door linings, etc. However, during the foaming process of traditional polyurethane foam, the addition time and dose of the catalyst are difficult to accurately control, resulting in large fluctuations in the density, hardness and uniformity of the foam, affecting the quality of the final product. The emergence of amine foam delay catalysts solves this problem.

1. Mechanism of action of catalyst

The main function of amine foam delay catalyst is to delay the foaming reaction of polyurethane foam and make the foaming process more controllable. In the preparation of polyurethane foam, isocyanate and polyol are two key raw materials. They react under the action of a catalyst to form polyurethane resin, and form a foam structure with the production of gas. Traditional catalysts such as tertiary amine catalysts (such as DMDEE, DMEA, etc.) will quickly catalyze the reaction of isocyanate with water or polyols at the beginning of the reaction, resulting in rapid expansion of the foam and difficult to control. The amine foam delay catalyst can inhibit the activity of the catalyst at the beginning of the reaction, delay the occurrence of the foaming reaction, and make the foaming process more uniform and stable.

Specifically, amine foam delay catalysts work through the following mechanisms:

  • Retreat effect: The molecular structure of amine catalysts contains specific functional groups, which can temporarily bind to isocyanate or polyols to form stable intermediates, thereby delaying the occurrence of the reaction. As the temperature rises or time goes by, these intermediates gradually dissociate, releasing active catalysts, prompting the foaming reaction to continue.

  • Temperature Sensitivity: Some amine foam delay catalysts are temperature sensitive, that is, their catalytic activity varies with temperature. At lower temperatures, the activity of the catalyst is lower and the foaming reaction is slow; at higher temperatures, the activity of the catalyst is enhanced and the foaming reaction is accelerated. This characteristic allows amine foam delay catalysts to flexibly adjust the foaming rate under different process conditions to adapt to different production needs.

  • Synergy Effect: Amines foam delay catalysts are usually used in conjunction with other types of catalysts (such as metal salt catalysts) to achieve the best foaming effect. For example, amine catalysts can be used in conjunction with tin-based catalysts such as dilauri dibutyltin, the former responsible for delaying the foaming reaction, while the latter accelerates the reaction later to ensure the complete curing of the foam.

2. Comparison with traditional catalysts

To better understand the advantages of amine foam retardation catalysts, we can compare them with conventional catalysts. The following are the main differences between amine foam delay catalysts and traditional catalysts:

Catalytic Type Foaming rate Foam homogeneity Volatility Environmental Friendship Scope of application
Traditional tertiary amine catalysts Quick Ununiform High Poor Widely used in various types of polyurethane foams
Amine foam delay catalyst Controlable Alternate Low Better Supplementary to high-demand car interiors, seats, etc.

It can be seen from the table that amine foam delay catalysts are superior to traditional catalysts in terms of foaming rate, foam uniformity, volatility and environmental friendliness. In particular, its low volatility and high environmental friendliness make amine foam delay catalysts have significant advantages in the automotive industry.

3. Research progress at home and abroad

The research on amine foam delay catalysts began in the 1980s and was mainly concentrated in the laboratory stage. As polyurethane foams become increasingly widely used in the automotive industry, researchers have begun to focus on how to improve the quality and performance of foams by improving catalysts. In recent years, some well-known foreign research institutions and enterprises have made important progress in this regard.

For example, Dow Chemical in the United States has developed a novel amine foam retardation catalyst that can foam at low temperatures and has good thermal stability. Germany’s BASF Company (BASF) has launched an amine catalyst based on amino derivatives. This catalyst not only has a delay effect, but also provides additional crosslinking points during the foaming process, further improving the mechanical strength of the foam.

In China, scientific research institutions such as the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Zhejiang University have also conducted a lot of research in the field of amine foam delay catalysts. Among them, a study from Zhejiang University showed that by introducing specific functional groups, the delay effect of amine catalysts can be significantly improved and excellent performance in practical applications. In addition, some domestic chemical companies have also begun to gradually promote the application of amine foam delay catalysts, especially in the production of high-end automotive interior materials.

Product parameters and performance characteristics

The performance parameters of amine foam delay catalysts are key factors in their performance in practical applications. Different types of amine catalysts have differences in chemical structure, physical properties and catalytic efficiency. Therefore, when choosing a suitable catalyst, it must be comprehensively considered according to the specific application scenarios and technical requirements. The following are the main product parameters and performance characteristics of amine foam delay catalysts:

1. Chemical structure

The chemical structure of amine foam retardation catalysts has an important influence on their catalytic properties. Common amine catalysts include aliphatic amines, aromatic amines and heterocyclic amines. Different types of amine catalysts have differences in molecular structure, which determines their catalytic activity, delay effect and environmental friendliness.

  • Aliphatic amines: Aliphatic amines are a type of amine compounds containing linear or branched chain alkyl groups, such as diethyl amine (DEA), dimethyl amine (DMAEA), etc. . The molecular structure of this type of catalyst is relatively simple, has good solubility and low volatility, and is suitable for foaming processes that require a longer delay time.

  • Aromatic amines: Aromatic amines are a type of amine compounds containing ring structures, such as amines, diylamines, etc. The molecular structure of this type of catalyst is relatively complex, has high thermal stability and oxidation resistance, and is suitable for foaming processes in high temperature environments. However, aromatic amines are highly toxic and need to pay attention to safety protection when using them.

  • Heterocyclic amine: Heterocyclic amine is a type of amine compounds containing a heterocyclic structure, such as imidazole, pyridine, etc. The molecular structure of this type of catalyst has high polarity and reactivity, and can exert catalytic effects at lower temperatures. In addition, heterocyclic amines are also environmentally friendly and are suitable for green chemical processes.

2. Physical properties

The physical properties of amine foam delay catalysts directly affect their behavior and effects during foaming. The following are the main physical parameters of amine catalysts:

Physical Parameters Description Typical
Appearance Liquid or solid Light yellow liquid or white powder
Melting point Melting temperature of catalyst -20°C to 150°C
Boiling point Volatility temperature of catalyst 150°C to 300°C
Density Density of catalyst 0.9 g/cm³ to 1.2 g/cm³
Viscosity Flowability of catalyst 10 mPa·s to 100 mPa·s
Solution Solution in polyols Full or partially dissolved

These physical parameters are crucial for the selection and use of catalysts. For example, the melting point and boiling point determine the applicable temperature range of the catalyst, while the viscosity and solubility affect its dispersion and uniformity in the foaming system. In practical applications, appropriate catalysts should be selected according to specific process conditions to ensure the smooth progress of the foaming process.

3. Catalytic efficiency

The catalytic efficiency of an amine foam retardant catalyst refers to its ability to promote reactions during foaming. The higher the catalytic efficiency, the faster the foaming reaction speed, and the density and hardness of the foam also increase accordingly. However, excessive catalytic efficiency may lead to the foaming process being out of control and affecting the quality of the foam. Therefore, in practical applications, it is necessary to adjustThe amount and type of ?mixture agent are used to balance the foaming rate and foam performance.

The following is the relationship between the catalytic efficiency and the amount of amine foam delay catalyst:

Catalytic Dosage (wt%) Foaming time (min) Foam density (kg/m³) Foam hardness (kPa)
0.1 5 40 20
0.5 3 50 30
1.0 2 60 40
1.5 1.5 70 50

It can be seen from the table that as the amount of catalyst is increased, the foaming time gradually shortens, and the foam density and hardness also increase. However, when the amount of catalyst is used exceeds a certain limit, the performance of the foam may be affected, so in practical applications, the appropriate amount of catalyst should be selected according to the specific needs.

4. Environmental Friendliness

The environmental friendliness of amine foam delay catalysts is an important reason for their widespread use in the automotive industry. Traditional catalysts such as tertiary amine compounds have high volatility and are prone to escape into the air during foaming, causing environmental pollution and health hazards. In contrast, amine foam delay catalysts have low volatility and can maintain stable activity during the foaming process, reducing the emission of harmful substances.

In addition, some amine catalysts also have biodegradable properties and can be decomposed into harmless substances in the natural environment, further reducing the impact on the environment. For example, amino derivative-based amine catalysts can be decomposed by microorganisms into carbon dioxide and water after foaming, without causing long-term pollution to the ecosystem.

Application Scenarios and Typical Cases

Amine foam delay catalysts are widely used in the automotive industry, covering multiple key components from car seats to dashboards and door linings. By using amine foam delay catalysts, automakers can not only improve the quality and performance of their products, but also meet increasingly stringent environmental protection requirements. The following are several typical application scenarios and their advantages of amine foam delay catalysts in the automotive industry.

1. Car seat

Car seats are one of the common applications of polyurethane foam in automobiles. The comfort and durability of the seats directly affect the driving experience, so the requirements for foam materials are very high. Traditional polyurethane foam is prone to problems such as uneven density and inconsistent hardness during foaming, resulting in insufficient support and rebound of the seat. The introduction of amine foam delay catalysts has effectively solved these problems.

  • Case Analysis: An internationally renowned automaker uses amine foam delay catalysts in the seat production of its new SUVs. By optimizing the amount and type of catalyst, the company successfully achieved uniform foaming of seat foam, with a foam density of 45 kg/m³ and a hardness of 35 kPa, which is far higher than the industry standard. In addition, the seat’s rebound performance has also been significantly improved. After multiple compression tests, the shape recovery rate of the seat has reached more than 95%. This not only improves passengers’ riding comfort, but also extends the service life of the seat.

  • Summary of Advantages:

    • Horizontal foaming: The delaying effect of amine catalysts makes the foam more uniform during the foaming process, avoiding the phenomenon of local over-tight or too thinness.
    • Excellent mechanical properties: By adjusting the amount of catalyst, the density and hardness of the foam can be accurately controlled to ensure that the seat has good support and resilience.
    • Environmentality: The low volatility and biodegradable properties of amine catalysts reduce the emission of harmful substances and meet the environmental protection requirements of modern automobile manufacturing.

2. Dashboard

The instrument panel is an important part of the interior of the car. In addition to providing driving information, it also plays a role in decoration and protection. Traditional instrument panel materials mostly use hard plastic or rubber, but they are prone to rupture during collision, which poses safety hazards. In recent years, more and more automakers have begun to use soft polyurethane foam as the filling material for instrument panels, which not only improves safety but also enhances aesthetics. The application of amine foam delay catalysts in this field makes the production of instrument panels more efficient and environmentally friendly.

  • Case Analysis: A European car brand has introduced amine foam delay catalysts in the dashboard production of its new models. By precisely controlling the foaming process, the company successfully prepared a dashboard foam layer with uniform thickness and smooth surface. The foam has a density of 50 kg/m³ and a hardness of 40 kPa, which not only ensures the flexibility of the instrument panel, but also provides sufficient support. In addition, the use of amine catalysts has also shortened the production cycle of the instrument panel by 20%, greatly improving production efficiency.

  • Summary of Advantages:

    • Horizontal foaming: The delaying effect of amine catalysts makes the foam more uniform during the foaming process, avoiding the phenomenon of local over-tight or too thinness.
    • Excellent mechanical properties: By adjusting the amount of catalyst, the density and hardness of the foam can be accurately controlled by adjusting the amount of catalyst., ensure that the instrument panel has good flexibility and support.
    • Environmentality: The low volatility and biodegradable properties of amine catalysts reduce the emission of harmful substances and meet the environmental protection requirements of modern automobile manufacturing.

3. Door lining

Door lining is an important sound insulation and shock absorption component in the car, and its performance directly affects the noise level and driving comfort of the vehicle. Traditional door lining materials mostly use hard foam or fiberboard, but they are prone to resonance when driving at high speed, resulting in increased noise in the car. In recent years, more and more automakers have begun to use soft polyurethane foam as the filling material for door linings, which not only improves sound insulation but also enhances shock absorption performance. The application of amine foam delay catalysts in this field makes the production of door linings more efficient and environmentally friendly.

  • Case Analysis: A Japanese automaker uses amine foam delay catalysts in the production of door linings for its new sedans. By optimizing the amount and type of catalyst, the company has successfully prepared a door lining foam layer with uniform thickness and moderate density. The foam has a density of 60 kg/m³ and a hardness of 45 kPa, which not only ensures the softness of the door lining, but also provides sufficient support. In addition, the use of amine catalysts has also increased the sound insulation effect of the door lining by 10%, and the noise level in the car is significantly reduced.

  • Summary of Advantages:

    • Horizontal foaming: The delaying effect of amine catalysts makes the foam more uniform during the foaming process, avoiding the phenomenon of local over-tight or too thinness.
    • Excellent mechanical properties: By adjusting the amount of catalyst, the density and hardness of the foam can be accurately controlled to ensure that the door lining has good flexibility and support.
    • Environmentality: The low volatility and biodegradable properties of amine catalysts reduce the emission of harmful substances and meet the environmental protection requirements of modern automobile manufacturing.

4. Other application scenarios

In addition to the typical applications mentioned above, amine foam delay catalysts have also been widely used in other parts of automobiles. For example, polyurethane foam is often used as filling material in roof linings, carpets, sound insulation pads and other parts. The introduction of amine catalysts makes the production of these components more efficient and environmentally friendly, while improving the performance and quality of the product.

  • Top lining: The use of amine catalysts makes the foam on the roof lining more uniform, avoiding the phenomenon of local too dense or too thin, and improving the sound insulation and aesthetics of the roof sex.
  • Carpet: The introduction of amine catalysts makes the foam of the carpet softer, enhances the comfort of the feet, and improves the durability of the carpet.
  • Sound insulation pads: The use of amine catalysts makes the foam of the sound insulation pads denser, improves the sound insulation effect, and reduces the noise level in the car.

Current market status and competitive landscape

Amine foam delay catalysts show a rapid growth trend in the global market, especially in the application of the automotive industry, with market demand increasing year by year. According to data from market research institutions, the global amine foam delay catalyst market size is about US$500 million in 2022, and is expected to reach US$800 million by 2028, with an annual compound growth rate (CAGR) of about 7.5%. This increase is mainly due to the following factors:

1. Rapid development of the automotive industry

With the recovery of the global economy and the increase in consumer demand for automobiles, the automotive industry has ushered in new development opportunities. Especially in emerging market countries, automobile sales continue to grow, driving demand for automotive parts. As an important raw material for key components such as automotive interiors, seats, sound insulation materials, market demand has also expanded. In addition, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs) has further promoted the application of amine catalysts in new energy vehicles.

2. Promotion of environmental protection policies

The governments of various countries have been paying more and more attention to environmental protection and have issued a number of strict emission standards and environmental protection regulations. For example, the European Green Deal proposed that the goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 requires the automotive industry to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Clean Air Act of the United States also puts forward strict requirements on automobile exhaust emissions. Against this backdrop, automakers are seeking more environmentally friendly production processes and materials, and amine foam delay catalysts have become ideal choices due to their low volatility and biodegradable properties.

3. Driven by technological innovation

The research and development and application of amine foam delay catalysts cannot be separated from the support of technological innovation. In recent years, domestic and foreign scientific research institutions and enterprises have made important breakthroughs in the chemical structure, catalytic mechanism, and environmental friendliness of catalysts. For example, Dow Chemical has developed a new type of amine catalyst that can foam at low temperatures and has good thermal stability; BASF has launched an amine catalyst based on amino derivatives, which not only has a delay effect , can also provide additional crosslinking points during foaming, further improving the mechanical strength of the foam. These technological innovations are the application of amine catalysts in the automotive industry.? Provides strong support.

4. Competitive landscape

At present, the global amine foam delay catalyst market is mainly dominated by several large chemical companies, such as Dow Chemical, BASF, Covestro, Huntsman, etc. These companies have obvious advantages in technology research and development, production processes, product quality, etc., and occupy most of the market share. In addition, some small and medium-sized enterprises and emerging enterprises are also constantly rising, and gradually expanding their market share with flexible market strategies and innovation capabilities.

The following is the market share distribution of major global amine foam delay catalyst suppliers:

Suppliers Market Share (%) Main Products Competitive Advantage
Dow Chemical 25 New low-temperature foaming catalyst Leading technology, excellent product quality, wide global layout
BASF 20 Amine catalyst based on amino derivatives Strong innovation ability, outstanding environmental protection performance, rich customer resources
Covestro 15 High-performance polyurethane catalyst Complete product lines, wide application fields, and complete technical support
Huntsman 10 Multifunctional amine catalyst The cost advantage is obvious, the market response is fast, and the service is of high quality
Other Suppliers 30 All kinds of amine catalysts Strong price competitiveness, high flexibility, and high regional market share

It can be seen from the table that Dow Chemical, BASF, Covestro and Huntsman account for most of the global amine foam delay catalyst market, forming a relatively stable competitive landscape. However, with the increasing market demand and technological advancement, other suppliers are also expected to gain more market share in the future.

Future development trends and prospects

As the global focus on environmental protection continues to increase, the automotive industry is moving towards a more environmentally friendly, intelligent and sustainable direction. As an important raw material for key components such as automotive interiors, seats, sound insulation materials, amine foam delay catalysts will play an important role in this transformation process. In the future, the development of amine foam delay catalysts will show the following trends:

1. Further improvement of environmental protection performance

As environmental regulations become increasingly strict, auto manufacturers have put forward higher requirements on the environmental performance of materials. The low volatility and biodegradable properties of amine foam delay catalysts give them obvious advantages in environmental protection. In the future, researchers will further optimize the chemical structure of catalysts and develop more products with higher environmental friendliness. For example, amine catalysts based on natural plant extracts are expected to become representative of a new generation of environmentally friendly catalysts. They not only have excellent catalytic properties, but also can completely degrade in the natural environment without causing long-term pollution to the ecosystem.

2. Functional diversification catalyst

The traditional amine foam delay catalyst is mainly used to control foaming rate and foam density, but with the continuous development of the automotive industry, the market’s functional requirements for catalysts are becoming more and more diverse. In the future, researchers will work to develop multifunctional amine catalysts so that they can not only delay reactions during foaming, but also impart more special properties to the foam. For example, amine catalysts with flame retardant properties can introduce flame retardant during the foaming process to improve the safety of the foam; amine catalysts with antibacterial properties can form an antibacterial coating on the surface of the foam to prevent bacteria from growing, and enhance the vehicle. Internal air quality.

3. Intelligent and automated production

With the advent of the Industry 4.0 era, intelligent and automated production have become an inevitable trend in the development of the manufacturing industry. The production and application of amine foam delay catalysts is no exception. In the future, researchers will use big data, artificial intelligence and other technical means to develop smarter catalyst formulas and production processes. For example, by establishing a catalyst performance prediction model, the type and amount of catalyst can be automatically adjusted according to different application scenarios and process conditions to ensure the best results of the foaming process. In addition, the application of intelligent production equipment will greatly improve production efficiency, reduce production costs, and promote the widespread application of amine foam delay catalysts.

4. Promotion of new energy vehicles

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs) has brought new market opportunities to amine foam delay catalysts. Compared with traditional fuel vehicles, new energy vehicles have higher requirements for lightweight, sound insulation, shock absorption and other performance, and amine foam delay catalysts can just meet these needs. For example, lightweight polyurethane foam can effectively reduce the weight of the car and improve the range; high-performance soundproof foam can reduce motor noise and improve the driving experience. In the future, with the continuous expansion of the new energy vehicle market, the demand for amine foam delay catalysts will also increase.

5. International cooperation and technical exchanges

The research and development and application of amine foam delay catalysts is a globalThe topics involved enterprises and scientific research institutions in many countries and regions. In the future, international cooperation and technical exchanges will become key forces in promoting the development of amine catalysts. By strengthening international cooperation, countries can share new research results and technical experience to jointly address the challenges of global climate change and environmental protection. For example, China and the United States have achieved some important results in cooperation in the field of catalysts. In the future, the two sides will continue to deepen cooperation and promote the technological innovation and application promotion of amine foam delay catalysts.

Conclusion

Amine foam delay catalysts, as an innovative material solution, have been widely used in the automotive industry and have made important contributions to pushing the automotive industry towards a more environmentally friendly future. By optimizing the chemical structure and catalytic mechanism of the catalyst, amine foam delay catalysts can not only improve the foaming quality of polyurethane foam, but also reduce the emission of harmful substances and reduce the impact on the environment. In the future, with the increasing strictness of environmental protection regulations and the rapid development of the new energy vehicle market, amine foam delay catalysts will usher in broader application prospects. We have reason to believe that with the joint efforts of global scientific researchers and enterprises, amine foam delay catalysts will inject new impetus into the sustainable development of the automotive industry and help mankind achieve a greener and smarter way of travel.

1•18581859186018611862•2359
Page 1860 of 2359