Triethylene Diamine TEDA

Product Overview

TEDA (CAS No. 280-57-9) is a high-efficiency blowing catalyst recognized for its selective activation of isocyanate-water reactions—the primary mechanism for gas generation in polyurethane foam production. With a molecular formula of C₆H₁₂N₂ and a molecular weight of 112.17 g/mol, this compound exists as a white crystalline solid (melting point 158-165°C) with a bicyclic structure that confers high catalytic activity. Its unique chemical properties deliver superior thermal stability and processing flexibility, making it suitable for both flexible and rigid foam applications across industries ranging from automotive to construction .

Features

Accelerated Blowing Activity

TEDA exhibits strong specificity for catalyzing the reaction between isocyanates and water, a process that generates CO₂ gas to expand foam. This activity reduces foam rise time by 30-40% compared to traditional catalysts like dimethylcyclohexylamine, a critical advantage for high-throughput manufacturing in industries such as automotive seating and insulation production. Its efficiency allows for lower dosage rates (typically 0.1-0.5 phr), reducing material costs while maintaining performance .

Balanced Reaction Control

While primarily a blowing catalyst, TEDA possesses moderate gelation activity due to its amine functionality, ensuring synchronized closed-cell integrity in rigid foams (essential for insulation) and open-cell flexibility in soft foams (critical for comfort). It optimizes cell size distribution (≤50 μm in microcellular applications), producing lightweight, high-strength materials with consistent density (±5 kg/m³) across production batches .

Multi-System Compatibility

TEDA performs effectively across diverse isocyanate systems, including TDI, MDI, and blended formulations (e.g., MDI/TDI 80/20). This formulation flexibility allows manufacturers to adapt to raw material price fluctuations or supply chain challenges. It also integrates seamlessly with common PU additives: silicone surfactants for cell stabilization, flame retardants for fire safety, and polyols of varying hydroxyl numbers, without causing undesired side reactions .

Low Environmental Impact

TEDA meets strict safety and environmental standards, including compliance with FDA (21 CFR 175.300) for indirect food contact applications and EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009) for personal care product components. It is classified as non-toxic (oral LD50 > 2000 mg/kg in rat tests) and exhibits biodegradability (60% degradation in 28 days per OECD 301C), supporting sustainable manufacturing goals. Its low VOC emissions (≤5 ppm) also meet indoor air quality standards for residential and commercial applications .

Applications

Flexible Polyurethane Foam

Bedding and Furniture: In HR foams for mattresses and upholstery, TEDA promotes fast-curing while enhancing resilience (ball rebound ≥ 60%) and durability. This results in foams that retain shape and comfort over extended use, a key attribute for premium home goods .

Automotive Interiors: Its low odor profile (odor intensity ≤ 2 on a 0-5 scale) makes it ideal for dashboard foams, seat cushions, and headliners, where compliance with automotive OEM odor standards (e.g., VDA 270) is mandatory .

Rigid Polyurethane Foam

Building Insulation: TEDA enhances thermal resistance in spray-applied and board insulation, achieving λ-values ≤ 0.022 W/m·K—a level that meets EN 13165 standards for energy-efficient buildings. This performance reduces heating/cooling costs by up to 30% in residential and commercial structures .

Cryogenic Applications: Its dimensional stability at extreme temperatures (-196°C) makes it critical for LNG storage tanks and cryogenic freezers, where foam shrinkage or cracking could compromise insulation and safety .

Specialty Applications

Microcellular Foams: In sports equipment (e.g., helmet liners, shoe midsoles), TEDA facilitates fine-cell formation (cell size ≤ 30 μm), improving impact absorption by 20% compared to conventional foams. This enhances athlete safety and comfort .

Epoxy Resins: As a reactive diluent in epoxy formulations for composites, TEDA reduces viscosity by 40-50% (from 10,000 to 5,000 mPa·s) without compromising mechanical strength (tensile modulus ≥ 3 GPa), ideal for wind turbine blades and marine composites .

Storage

Container Requirements: Store TEDA in airtight glass or aluminum containers to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause clumping. Desiccants may be added to storage containers in humid environments.

Environmental Conditions: Maintain temperatures between 5-25°C with humidity ≤60%, away from direct sunlight to prevent photodegradation. Avoid exposure to temperatures above 30°C, as this can reduce shelf life.

Handling Precautions: Avoid contact with strong bases (pH > 12) and transition metal ions (e.g., copper, iron), which can catalyze amine degradation. Use gloves and dust masks during handling to prevent skin/respiratory exposure .

Technical Specifications