The role of DMCHA (N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine) in improving the softness and comfort of polyurethane elastomers
Introduction
Polyurethane elastomer is a polymer material widely used in the fields of industry, medical care, daily life, etc. Its excellent mechanical properties, wear resistance, chemical resistance and adjustable hardness make it ideal for many products. However, with the increase in people’s requirements for comfort and softness, how to further optimize the performance of polyurethane elastomers has become the focus of research. As a highly efficient catalyst and modifier, N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) plays an important role in improving the softness and comfort of polyurethane elastomers. This article will discuss in detail the mechanism of action, application scenarios, product parameters and its impact on the performance of polyurethane elastomers.
1. Basic characteristics of DMCHA
1.1 Chemical structure and properties
DMCHA (N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine) is an organic amine compound with its chemical structure as follows:
| Chemical Name | Molecular Formula | Molecular Weight | Appearance | Boiling point (℃) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine | C8H17N | 127.23 | Colorless transparent liquid | 160-162 | 0.85-0.87 |
DMCHA has the following characteristics:
- High catalytic activity: DMCHA is a highly efficient polyurethane reaction catalyst that can significantly accelerate the reaction of isocyanate with polyols.
- Low Volatility: DMCHA has a higher boiling point and low volatility, and is suitable for use in high temperature environments.
- Good solubility: DMCHA can be compatible with a variety of organic solvents and polyurethane raw materials, making it easy to use in formulas.
1.2 The role of DMCHA in polyurethane reaction
DMCHA is mainly used as a catalyst during the synthesis of polyurethane. Its mechanism of action is as follows:
- Accelerating reaction: DMCHA can promote isocyanates and polyolsReaction, shorten reaction time and improve production efficiency.
- Adjust the reaction rate: By adjusting the dosage of DMCHA, the reaction rate of polyurethane can be controlled, thereby optimizing the performance of the material.
- Improving material properties: DMCHA not only acts as a catalyst, but also affects the microstructure of polyurethane through its molecular structure, thereby improving the softness and comfort of the material.
2. Effect of DMCHA on the softness of polyurethane elastomers
2.1 Definition and importance of softness
Softness is an important indicator for measuring the ability of a material to deform when subjected to stress. For polyurethane elastomers, softness directly affects its touch, comfort and application range. For example, in insoles, mattresses, medical protective gear and other products, high-softness polyurethane elastomers can provide better fit and comfort.
2.2 Mechanism of DMCHA to improve softness
DMCHA improves the softness of polyurethane elastomers by:
- Modify crosslink density: DMCHA can affect the crosslink density of polyurethane molecular chains. Lower crosslinking density will make the material softer.
- Optimize molecular chain arrangement: The molecular structure of DMCHA helps to uniformly arrange the polyurethane molecular chains, reduces hard segment aggregation, thereby improving the softness of the material.
- Reduce the glass transition temperature (Tg): DMCHA can reduce the Tg of polyurethane, allowing the material to show better flexibility at room temperature.
2.3 Comparison of experimental data and effects
The following table shows the effect of different DMCHA dosages on the softness of polyurethane elastomers:
| DMCHA dosage (%) | Shore A | Tension Strength (MPa) | Elongation of Break (%) | Softness Evaluation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 85 | 25 | 300 | Hard |
| 0.5 | 75 | 22 | 350 | Moderate |
| 1.0 | 65 | 20 | 400 | Softer |
| 1.5 | 55 | 18 | 450 | very soft |
It can be seen from the table that with the increase of DMCHA usage, the hardness of the polyurethane elastomer gradually decreases and the softness is significantly improved.
III. Effect of DMCHA on the comfort of polyurethane elastomers
3.1 Definition and influencing factors
Comfort refers to the physiological and psychological pleasure provided by the material to the user during use. For polyurethane elastomers, comfort is mainly affected by the following factors:
- Softness: Soft material can better fit the human body curve and reduce pressure points.
- Breathability: Good breathability helps sweat and heat dissipate, and improves comfort.
- Resilience: High resilience can provide better support and shock absorption.
3.2 Mechanisms of DMCHA to Improve Comfort
DMCHA improves the comfort of polyurethane elastomers by:
- Improving softness: As mentioned earlier, DMCHA can significantly reduce the hardness of the material and make it softer.
- Optimize Microstructure: DMCHA helps to form a uniform microporous structure and improves the breathability of the material.
- Enhanced Resilience: DMCHA can adjust the elasticity of the polyurethane molecular chain, so that the material will quickly return to its original state after being subjected to stress.
3.3 Comparison of experimental data and effects
The following table shows the impact of different DMCHA dosages on the comfort-related properties of polyurethane elastomers:
| DMCHA dosage (%) | Breathability (cm³/cm²·s) | Rounce rate (%) | Comfort Evaluation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.5 | 60 | General |
| 0.5 | 0.8 | 70 | Better |
| 1.0 | 1.2 | 80 | Excellent |
| 1.5 | 1.5 | 85 | Excellent |
It can be seen from the table that with the increase of DMCHA usage, the breathability and rebound rate of the polyurethane elastomer have been significantly improved, and the comfort is significantly improved.
IV. Performance of DMCHA in different application scenarios
4.1 Shoe material
In the field of shoe materials, polyurethane elastomers are commonly used to make insoles and midsoles. The addition of DMCHA can significantly improve the softness and resilience of the shoe material, providing users with a better wearing experience.
4.2 Mattress
In mattresses, polyurethane elastomers are used to make comfort layers. DMCHA can improve the softness and breathability of the material, make the mattress more fit with the human body curve and improve sleep quality.
4.3 Medical protective gear
In medical protective gear, polyurethane elastomers need to have good flexibility and support. The addition of DMCHA can make the material softer while maintaining sufficient strength to provide patients with a comfortable wearing experience.
V. Suggestions and precautions for the use of DMCHA
5.1 Recommendations for use
- Doing control: The dosage of DMCHA should be adjusted according to the specific application scenario, and the recommended dosage is usually 0.5%-1.5%.
- Combination with other additives: DMCHA can be used in combination with other catalysts, foaming agents, etc. to further optimize the performance of polyurethane elastomers.
- Process Optimization: When using DMCHA, attention should be paid to controlling the reaction temperature and stirring speed to ensure the stability of material properties.
5.2 Notes
- Storage conditions: DMCHA should be stored in a cool and dry environment to avoid contact with strong acids and strong oxidants.
- Safety Protection: DMCHA is irritating. Protective gloves and glasses should be worn during operation to avoid direct contact with the skin and eyes.
VI. Summary
DMCHA, as an efficient catalyst and modifier, plays an important role in improving the softness and comfort of polyurethane elastomers. By adjusting the crosslinking density, optimizing the molecular chain arrangement and reducing the glass transition temperature, DMCHA can significantly improve the softness, breathability and resilience of the polyurethane elastomer, thereby providing users with a more comfortable user experience. In different application scenarios, the performance of DMCHA has been widely recognized. In the future, with the continuous improvement of material performance requirements, DMCHA’s application prospects in polyurethane elastomers will be broader.
Through the detailed analysis of this article, I believe that readers have a deeper understanding of the role of DMCHA in improving the softness and comfort of polyurethane elastomers. It is hoped that these contents can provide valuable reference for research and application in related fields.
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