BASF Introduces Aromatic Amine-Free Anti-Scorch Additive for Low VOC PU Foam

BASF has introduced a groundbreaking polyurethane (PU) antioxidant, Irgastab PUR 71, designed as a sustainable alternative for producers of polyols and PU foams. This innovative solution addresses challenges in the manufacturing process of PU foams, where heat generation can lead to discoloration and the loss of mechanical properties. Ineffective stabilization of polyols poses the additional risk of fire hazards. Traditionally, anti-scorch additives rely on phenolic antioxidants combined with aromatic amine stabilizers. However, this approach presents concerns related to toxicity, high volatility, and unpleasant odors.

Irgastab PUR 71 stands out by excluding aromatic amines from its composition. This design choice not only results in lower emissions but also reduces potential harm to both humans and aquatic organisms. The resulting PU foam exhibits significantly decreased levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and condensable emissions (FOG). This improvement in air quality within vehicles makes it particularly appealing for the automotive industry, allowing compliance with the strictest specifications.

The absence of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic classification in Irgastab PUR 71 makes it an environmentally friendly choice for polyol producers aiming to adhere to voluntary certifications while safeguarding the confidentiality of their anti-scorch recipes. In consumer goods, the PU antioxidant contributes to enhanced whiteness and resistance to color changes caused by gas fading and light-induced discoloration.

The introduction of Irgastab PUR 71 represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges associated with PU foam production. The heat generated in the manufacturing process can lead to undesirable outcomes such as discoloration and compromised mechanical properties. Additionally, inadequate stabilization of polyols can pose serious fire hazards. Conventional anti-scorch additives typically employ phenolic antioxidants in conjunction with aromatic amine stabilizers. However, this approach brings about issues related to toxicity, high volatility, and unpleasant odors.

The distinctive feature of Irgastab PUR 71 lies in its exclusion of aromatic amines, resulting in reduced emissions and diminished harm to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. The PU foam produced with this innovative additive boasts significantly lower levels of VOCs and condensable emissions (FOG). This reduction not only aligns with stringent automotive specifications but also enhances air quality within vehicles.

The environmental benefits of Irgastab PUR 71 extend to its classification, or rather, lack thereof. With no carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic classification, the PU antioxidant offers a sustainable option for polyol producers seeking compliance with environmental certifications while maintaining the confidentiality of their anti-scorch formulations. In the realm of consumer goods, Irgastab PUR 71 contributes to improved whiteness and resistance to color changes resulting from gas fading and light-induced discoloration.