DBTDL (dibutyltin dilaurate) and bismuth carboxylate catalysts are the two most widely used types across GCC coating and PU foam manufacturers — each offering different activity levels, regulatory profiles, and compatibility with specific PU systems.
Technical specifications
| PARAMETER | SPECIFICATION | TEST METHOD |
|---|---|---|
| Types Available | DBTDL (tin-based) and Bismuth carboxylate (tin-free) | — |
| Typical Active Metal Content (DBTDL) | 17.5 – 18.5% Sn | — |
| Typical Active Metal Content (Bismuth) | 20 – 24% Bi | — |
| Appearance (DBTDL) | Pale yellow to amber liquid | Visual |
| Appearance (Bismuth) | Light yellow to amber liquid | Visual |
| Density @ 25°C | 1.05 – 1.12 g/cm³ (grade dependent) | ASTM D4052 |
| Typical Addition Level | 0.01 – 0.1% on total formulation weight | — |
| Flash Point | > 60°C | ASTM D93 |
| Shelf Life | 24 months sealed | — |
| HS Code | 3824.99 |
Applications
- 2K PU Topcoat Cure Rate Control — Added to either the polyol (Part A) or the mixed system to control pot-life and through-cure speed of two-component PU topcoat systems.
- Rigid & Flexible PU Foam — DBTDL is a standard gelation catalyst in rigid PU insulation foam (panels, pipe insulation) and flexible foam production across UAE and Saudi Arabia.
- PU Adhesives & Sealants — Catalyst in one- and two-component PU adhesive and sealant systems for construction and industrial applications across GCC.
- Tin-Free Systems (Bismuth) — Bismuth carboxylate catalysts are the preferred replacement for DBTDL in environmentally sensitive applications — food-contact, medical, and export markets with restrictions on organotin compounds.
Key properties
- Highly active — effective at very low addition levels (0.01–0.1%)
- Good solubility in common PU solvents and polyols
- Pot-life / cure rate tuneable by addition level adjustment
- DBTDL: established, cost-effective, broad compatibility
- Bismuth: tin-free, low toxicity profile, good activity
- Does not affect UV stability of aliphatic PU system
- Compatible with HDI, IPDI, and MDI isocyanate systems
Usage and recommendations
Start at 0.01% DBTDL (or 0.05% Bi catalyst) and adjust to achieve target pot-life and through-cure. Higher addition levels significantly shorten pot-life — in GCC summer conditions (40–45°C), use minimum catalyst level and compensate with smaller batch sizes. Add catalyst to Part A (polyol) only — not to Part B (isocyanate). DBTDL is toxic if ingested and harmful to aquatic organisms — use appropriate PPE. For regulatory markets restricting organotin, use bismuth carboxylate catalyst.
Packaging
- 25 kg Drum (small pack)
- 200 kg Steel Drum
- Custom packaging available
Storage and shelf life
Store in sealed containers at 5–30°C away from moisture. Shelf life: 24 months. Keep away from strong acids, bases, and oxidisers.