Catalysts are chemicals that speed up a chemical reaction without being consumed by the reaction. They did this by providing an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur, one with a lower activation energy.

Catalysts play an important role in the production of polyurethane. They are used to control reaction rates, the properties of final products, and the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.

There are many different types of catalysts used in polyurethane production. The most common types are amines, organometallic catalysts, and metal carboxylates.

Amines are the most widely used catalyst type in polyurethane production. They effectively catalyze the reaction between isocyanates and hydroxyl groups, a key step in the formation of polyurethanes. Amines are also used to control end product properties such as hardness, flexibility and water resistance.

An organometallic catalyst is a catalyst that contains metal atoms. They are commonly used in the production of polyurethane foam. Organometallic catalysts can be used to control reaction rates, properties of end products, and the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.

A metal carboxylate is a catalyst containing a metal atom and a carboxylate group. They are commonly used in the production of polyurethane coatings. Metal carboxylates can be used to control reaction rates, properties of final products, and the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.

Choosing a catalyst for a particular polyurethane application depends on many factors, including the desired properties of the final product, the cost of the catalyst, and the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

Catalysts are an important part of polyurethane production. They allow the production of a wide range of products with various properties. Catalysts also help reduce the environmental impact of polyurethane production.