TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate)
TDI is a highly reactive chemical compound primarily used as a key raw material in the production of polyurethane foams. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor and is valued for its ability to react with polyols to form flexible and rigid polyurethane products. TDI’s versatility makes it indispensable in industries like furniture, automotive, insulation, and coatings.
Primary Uses
Polyurethane Industry
Flexible Foam Production: Used extensively to manufacture flexible polyurethane foams for furniture, mattresses, automotive seating, and packaging.
Rigid Foam Production: Applied in producing rigid polyurethane foams used for insulation panels and structural components.
Elastomers & Coatings: Raw material for polyurethane elastomers, adhesives, sealants, and coatings with excellent durability and abrasion resistance.
Chemical Manufacturing
Polymer Synthesis: Essential intermediate in producing polyurethane polymers and resins.
Secondary Uses
Sealants and Adhesives
Specialty Adhesives: Used in manufacturing high-performance adhesives for industrial applications.
Textile Industry
Coatings & Binders: Applied as a binder or coating agent in technical textiles and synthetic leather.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2,4-Toluene diisocyanate (major), 2,6-Toluene diisocyanate (minor)
Common/Trade Name: TDI
CAS Number: 26471-62-5 (mixture of isomers)
HS Code: 2916.32.00
Synonyms: Tolylene diisocyanate, toluene-2,4-diisocyanate, Toluene-2,6-diisocyanate
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Color & Odor: Pungent, sharp odor
Boiling Point: Approx. 127 °C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (hydrolyzes); soluble in organic solvents
Density: Approx. 1.21 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Toxic, irritant, respiratory sensitizer
Toxicity: High toxicity by inhalation and skin contact; potential to cause occupational asthma
Exposure Limits: Strict occupational exposure limits established (e.g., OSHA PEL: 0.02 ppm)
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and heat
Container Type: Steel drums or specialized chemical containers
Shelf Life: Typically 6–12 months under proper conditions
Handling Precautions: Use full PPE; avoid inhalation and skin contact; ensure adequate ventilation and use closed systems
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Regulated under OSHA, REACH, EPA, and other international chemical safety standards
Classified as hazardous substance with strict handling and transport regulations
Complies with UN classification for dangerous goods
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Does not readily biodegrade; hydrolyzes in water to less harmful products
Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic life; avoid environmental release
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
PPE Required: Full protective clothing, gloves, respirators, and eye protection mandatory
Handling Guidelines: Use in closed systems with proper ventilation; emergency showers and eyewash stations recommended
Storage Measures: Keep away from moisture and incompatible substances such as alcohols and amines
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek urgent medical attention; watch for delayed respiratory effects
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical help
Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical care
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; vapors may form explosive mixtures with air
Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ extinguishers; avoid water jets
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and toxic isocyanate vapors