Methyl di-p-phenylene isocyanate (MDI) is mainly used in polyurethane foams, which account for about 80% of global consumption. Rigid foams are mostly used in construction, refrigeration, packaging and insulation. Flexible foams are used in furniture, bedding and transportation.
The MDI market is expected to grow at twice the rate of GDP growth. Considerable investment is focussed on China where demand is expected to grow up to 15%/year.
The main feedstock for MDI is nitrobenzene which is hydrogenated to aniline and then condensed with formaldehyde to form diphenylmethane diamine. The polyamine is reacted with phosgene to yield an isocyanate mix.
Pure MDI occurs as white to pale yellow crystals or flakes with a slightly musty odour. MDI and polymeric isocyanates are very toxic. MDI reacts violently with acids, alcohols, amines, bases and oxidants causing fire and explosion hazard.
Methylene di-p-phenylene isocyanate
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Methylene di-p-phenylene isocyanate
Uses and Outlook
Methyl di-p-phenylene isocyanate (MDI) is mainly used in polyurethane foams, which account for about 80% of global consumption. Rigid foams are mostly used in construction, refrigeration, packaging and insulation. Flexible foams are used in furniture, bedding and transportation. MDI is also used to make elastomers, adhesives, sealants, coatings and plastics.
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Methylene di-p-phenylene isocyanate
Process Technologies
The main feedstock for MDI is nitrobenzene which is produced by the nitration of benzene in either a continuous or batch process. The nitrobenzene is hydrogenated to aniline which is then condensed with formaldehyde to form diphenylmethane diamine. The reaction conditions in the condensation step control the composition of the polyamine product.
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