Toluene diisocyanate

Toluene diisocyanate (CAS 26471-62-5), commonly traded as TDI, is a reactive diisocyanate monomer used to produce polyurethane polymers through reaction with polyols. It is a foundational building block in the manufacture of flexible foams, coatings, and adhesives.

The chemical is essential for elastomers across multiple industrial sectors. The dominant application is flexible polyurethane foam production, where TDI reacts with polyether polyols to produce the foam used in furniture cushioning and mattresses.

It is also widely utilized in automotive seating. In coatings and adhesives, it functions as a cross-linking agent that improves hardness, chemical resistance, and adhesion in various two-component systems.

TDI-based prepolymers are used in sealants and elastomers for construction joints, industrial rollers, and conveyor components. These applications require controlled flexibility and durability for long-term performance.

The tire and rubber industry uses TDI as a curing agent in specialty rubber compounds where enhanced mechanical performance is required. It ensures the structural integrity of components under high stress.

TDI is supplied as a liquid in two primary commercial isomer blends: TDI-80/20 and TDI-65/35. TDI-80/20 is the dominant industrial grade, consisting of 80% 2,4- and 20% 2,6-isomer.

It is available in drum and ISO tank quantities to support both formulators and large-scale polyurethane producers. Technical grade is the standard market specification, with purity typically above 99%.