BASF launches Lupragen N 208, a reactive low-VOC PU catalyst enhancing foam quality, reducing emissions, and expanding its global Lupragen catalyst portfolio.
BASF has expanded its comprehensive range of polyurethane (PU) catalysts with the introduction of a new, modern amine-based catalyst named Lupragen® N 208. This addition strengthens the company’s Lupragen catalyst portfolio, which is widely used in the production of various PU foams. The new catalyst, chemically identified as N,N,N'-trimethyl-N'-hydroxyethyl-bisamino ethylether (HE-TMAEE, CAS 83016-70-0), will be manufactured at BASF’s Ludwigshafen Verbund facility in Germany. From there, it will be distributed to customers around the world under the established Lupragen brand.
Lupragen N 208 functions as a reactive amine catalyst, meaning it becomes chemically bonded into the polymer structure during the PU foam formation process. Because of this permanent incorporation into the foam matrix, the catalyst cannot subsequently migrate out of the material. This key characteristic eliminates the risk of the catalyst contributing to volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions—an increasingly important requirement for many industries striving to meet strict environmental, odor, and indoor-air-quality standards.
The reduced VOC potential of Lupragen N 208 makes it particularly advantageous for producing PU foam products intended for sensitive or enclosed environments. Manufacturers can apply it in flexible PU foams commonly used in mattresses, furniture cushions, and seating materials, where low odor and minimal emissions are critical. In addition, the catalyst is also well-suited for semi-rigid or rigid foams used in automotive applications, including dashboards, armrests, and interior trim components. As consumer expectations for comfort, air quality, and sustainability continue to rise, the adoption of low-VOC materials has become a key focus for both regulators and product designers.
According to Gereon Altenhoff, Product Manager for PU Catalysts within BASF’s Intermediates division in Europe, the addition of Lupragen N 208 brings meaningful value to customers. He notes that the new catalyst complements BASF’s existing blowing catalyst Lupragen N 205 (Bis(2-dimethylamino-ethyl)ether, BDMAEE), creating a more robust portfolio that addresses the growing market demand for emission-reduced PU technologies. Altenhoff emphasizes that customers across multiple downstream industries are increasingly seeking solutions that meet tightening specifications on VOC emissions and overall environmental impact.
BASF is recognized globally as one of the leading producers of amines, offering an extensive range of amine-based catalysts tailored for polyurethane processing. These catalysts, typically tertiary amines, play a vital role in accelerating and guiding the chemical reactions between isocyanates and polyols—the two primary components used to create polyurethane materials. The selection of a suitable catalyst allows manufacturers to fine-tune the balance between gelling and blowing reactions, thereby influencing the foam’s density, structure, and mechanical performance.
With the introduction of Lupragen N 208, BASF continues to support PU manufacturers in their efforts to pursue cleaner, more environmentally responsible production practices. This new catalyst joins several other low-emission solutions in the Lupragen lineup, underscoring BASF’s commitment to delivering materials that align with evolving regulatory standards and customer expectations for high-performance, low-VOC polyurethane products.
