Bi[2-(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl)] ether: a star player of water-based polyurethane catalyst

In the chemical world, there is a substance like a skilled chef. It can accurately control the speed and direction of the reaction and make complex chemical reactions orderly. This magical existence is the catalyst. Among the many catalysts, di[2-(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl)]ether (hereinafter referred to as DMEA) stands out in the field of water-based polyurethane with its unique charm and is known as the "good partner". Today, let’s talk about this star player in the chemistry industry.

Basic information and structural characteristics of DMEA

Chemical Name and Molecular Formula

The full name of DMEA is di[2-(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl)]ether, and its molecular formula is C8H20N2O. As you can see from the name, this is an ether compound containing two dimethylaminoethyl structures. Its molecular weight is 168.25 g/mol, and it is a colorless and transparent liquid with a slight amine odor.

Structural Characteristics

The core structure of DMEA is composed of two dimethylaminoethyl groups connected by an ether bond. This special structure gives it extremely strong alkalinity and good solubility. Specifically, the dimethylamino moiety provides strong nucleophilicity, while the ether bond enhances its stability in organic solvents. This structural property makes DMEA an efficient catalyst, especially suitable for the synthesis of aqueous polyurethanes.

Physical and chemical properties

The boiling point of DMEA is about 170°C, the density is 0.92 g/cm³ (20°C), and the refractive index is about 1.44. It is sensitive to moisture and air, so special attention should be paid to sealing and drying conditions during storage. In addition, DMEA is low in toxicity, but it still needs to avoid direct contact with the skin or inhaling its steam.

The application of DMEA in aqueous polyurethane

Introduction to water-based polyurethane

Waterborne Polyurethane (WPU) is an environmentally friendly material with water as the dispersion medium, and is widely used in coatings, adhesives, textile finishing and other fields. Compared with traditional solvent-based polyurethanes, aqueous polyurethanes not only reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions, but also have excellent flexibility and weather resistance. However, the synthesis process of aqueous polyurethanes is complex and requires precise control of the reaction conditions and catalyst selection.

Mechanism of Action of DMEA

In the synthesis of aqueous polyurethanes, DMEA is mainly used as a catalyst for the reaction of isocyanate (NCO) and polyol (OH). Its mechanism of action can be summarized into the following aspects:

1. Accelerating reaction: DMEA reduces the activation energy of the reaction between isocyanate and hydroxyl groups by providing a proton acceptance site, thereby significantly increasing the reaction rate.
2. Selective Catalysis: Because DMEA is highly alkaline, it preferentially promotes the reaction between NCO and OH rather than side reactions (such as the reaction of NCO and water), which helps improve product performance.
3. Improving dispersion: DMEA can also enhance the water dispersion ability of the prepolymer, so that the final product has a more uniform particle size distribution.

Experimental data support

According to multiple domestic and foreign studies, aqueous polyurethanes using DMEA as catalysts exhibit higher solids content and lower viscosity. For example, a study completed by Bayer, Germany showed that when the amount of DMEA is 0.5% of the total raw material, the hardness of the synthetic water-based polyurethane coating is increased by 20%, while maintaining good flexibility.

Comparison of DMEA with other catalysts

While DMEA performs well in the field of water-based polyurethanes, there are many other types of catalysts available on the market. Below we compare several common catalysts through table form:

It can be seen from the table that DMEA has a clear advantage in efficiency and selectivity, but moisture-proof measures need to be paid attention to during storage and use.

Progress in domestic and foreign research

Domestic research status

In recent years, with the increasing strictness of environmental protection regulations, domestic investment in research on water-based polyurethanes and their catalysts has been increasing. A study from the Department of Chemical Engineering of Tsinghua University shows that by optimizing the addition amount and reaction conditions of DMEA, the production cost of water-based polyurethane can be effectively reduced and its comprehensive performance can be improved. In addition, an experiment from Fudan University found that DMEA can maintain good catalytic activity under low temperature conditions, which is of great significance for winter tool application in the north.

International Frontier Trends

Internationally, Dow Chemical Company in the United States has developed a new DMEA modification technology, which further enhances its catalytic effect and stability by introducing additional functional groups. Japan's Toyo Textile Company focuses on the application of DMEA in high-performance coatings and has successfully developed a series of water-based polyurethane products that combine wear resistance and flexibility.

Precautions and safety suggestions

Although DMEA has many advantages, the following points should still be noted in actual operation:

1. Storage Conditions: Because DMEA is sensitive to moisture, it is recommended to store it in a dry and cool place and minimize the number of times it is opened.
2. Protective Measures: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to avoid direct contact with the skin or inhaling steam.
3. Waste Disposal: Disposable DMEA solution should be properly disposed of in accordance with local regulations and must not be dumped at will.

Safety Parameter Table

Summary and Outlook

DMEA, as an efficient and environmentally friendly catalyst, has shown great application potential in the field of water-based polyurethanes. It can not only significantly improve reaction efficiency and product quality, but also meet the needs of modern industry for green chemistry. In the future, with scientific researchers' in-depth research on the structure and functions of DMEA, I believe that more innovative applications will be developed. As a song sings: "You are my little apple, no matter how much you love you," for water-based polyurethane, DMEA is undoubtedly the indispensable "little apple".

Let us look forward to this star chemistry player bringing more surprises in the future!

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