In the universe of polyurethane systems, talking about catalysts can sound too technical. But, for those who make strategic decisions in industrial processes, understanding the role of these substances is essential to maintain control, reduce losses, and maximize productivity.
More than accelerating reactions, catalysts are tools to modulate the behavior of the system during the productive process, influencing the fluidity, the gel time, and the pace of expansion. When correctly adjusted, they contribute to operational stability and process efficiency — without interfering directly in the final structure of the polymer.
Far beyond reactivity: what these catalysts really control
In PU systems, two main reactions occur simultaneously:
Polymerization: has as main function to promote the reaction of the polyol and isocyanate, forming the urethane bond.
Expansion (blowing): has as main function to promote the reaction of the water plus isocyanate, forming CO² and promoting the expansion of the foam.
Important: Catalysts are not responsible for the final structure of the foam or for its mechanical resistance. These attributes are defined by the selection of polyols, isocyanate, expansion agents, and structural additives.
How catalyst control impacts the operation
A good PU system must behave with predictability and stability in the process. For this, the balance between polymerization and expansion catalysts is determinant in the behavior of the mixture, and not in the final quality of the polymer.
The most common practical impacts include:
Cycle time: poorly adjusted systems can require a longer waiting time until demolding, reducing productivity.
Process stability: an unbalanced relation between polymerization and blowing can harm the fluidity of the mixture, mainly in complex molds.
Adaptation to environmental variables: regions with thermal variations or relative humidity alter the reaction dynamics. A well-catalyzed system maintains performance even under these conditions.
How we deliver control and performance in practice
At Amino, we develop polyurethane systems with fine adjustment of catalysts according to the process and the objective of each client:
- Productivity gain with adequate reaction time;
- Optimization of demolding time without compromising finish;
- Reaction stability in different environmental conditions;
- Adequate fluidity for complex molds and technical geometries.
This balance is possible thanks to collaborative technical work with each client, understanding variables of the productive process, operational limitations, and requirements of the final product.
Our differential is to treat the catalyst as a strategic ingredient in manufacturing..
Our portfolio: Amino catalysts for different demands
We have a robust line of catalysts for PU systems, each with specific properties according to the application:
Polymerization Catalysts:
- AMICAT CMR 3300 – Intensifies the reaction between polyol and isocyanate, considered a high-efficiency gelling agent.
- AMICAT BC 3310 –Blocked, ideal for processes that require a prolonged cream time, allowing flexibility for diverse processes.
Expansion Catalysts:
- AMICAT CRH 3001 – High reactivity with water + isocyanate.
- AMICAT CMR 3077 – Improves surface finish in injected parts and provides a thin skin in flexible foam blocks.
- AMICAT BC 3070 – Blocked, indicated for prolonged cream time and fast demolding.
Balanced Catalysts:
- AMICAT CMR 3750 – Provides greater process latitude.
- AMICAT CFF 3200 – Medium reactivity, ideal for blocks and continuous.
- AMICAT CMR 3113 – Low odor and low emission, precise balance.
- AMICAT BC 3305 – Indicated to prolong cream time, preventing scorching inside the block.
This is a part of our catalyst portfolio, a variety that allows formulation flexibility, with validated performance for different types of application, from molded foams to block production.
About Amino Química
Polymerization and expansion catalysts are fundamental in the reaction adjustment of PU. When correctly chosen and balanced, they not only accelerate reactions — but also help to make the process more efficient and productive.
At Amino, this control is part of our commitment to real and sustainable results, from the laboratory to the production line. In addition to offering tailor-made catalysts, we also have a dedicated line of high-performance additives, which includes additives to improve physical properties, stability and among others, adjusted for different application profiles.
Talk to our technical team and discover how our catalysts can make your PU system even more efficient.