The main outlet for toluene diisocyanate (TDI) is in the manufacture of polyurethane (PU) flexible foams used in upholstery, mattresses and automotive seats. This is achieved by reacting the TDI with a polyol to produce the foam. Smaller uses for TDI include polyurethane elastomers and coatings.
With most of toluene diisocyanate’s output going into the furniture and automotive sectors, demand is sensitive to economic activity. However, long-term global demand growth for TDI is estimated at around 4-5%/year.
The main commercial route for the manufacture of TDI starts with the nitration of toluene using nitric acid to produce dinitrotoluene followed by catalytic hydrogenation to toluene diamine. The toluene diamine is dissolved in an inert solvent and reacted with phosgene to produce a crude TDI solution.
Toluene diisocyanate occurs as colourless to pale yellow liquid or crystals with a pungent odour. All isocyanates are hazardous and must be handled with care. Skin contact must be avoided, as redness, blistering and possible sensitisation can result.
Toluene diisocyanate
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Toluene diisocyanate
Uses and Outlook
Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) exists as two isomers; 2,4-TDI and 2,6-TDI. The most common form of TDI offered commercially is an 80/20 mixture of the 2,4- and 2,6-isomers but is also available as a 65/35 mixture as well as a pure 2,4-isomer.
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Toluene diisocyanate
Process Technologies
The main commercial route for the manufacture of TDI starts with the nitration of toluene using nitric acid to produce dinitrotoluene followed by catalytic hydrogenation to toluene diamine. The toluene diamine is dissolved in an inert solvent and reacted with phosgene to produce a crude TDI solution.
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