BASF launches low‑VOC polyurethane catalyst Lupragen BisDMAPU

Key highlights
  • Lupragen BisDMAPU is 1,3-Bis[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]urea (CAS 52338-87-1), a low-emission, low-odor tertiary amine catalyst.
  • The catalyst balances gelling and blowing reactions to support reliable foam formation and dimensional stability.
  • Primarily targeted at flexible PU foams (slabstock and molded for furniture, mattresses and automotive interiors); also applicable in reactive hotmelt PU adhesives, two-component epoxy systems and cationic polymers.
  • Available globally under the Lupragen trademark; positioned as a complement to Lupragen N 208 (launched December 2025) and produced in Ludwigshafen with a backward integrated setup.

Product

BASF’s Intermediates division has added Lupragen BisDMAPU to its Lupragen amine catalyst portfolio. The product’s chemical name is 1,3-Bis[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]urea (CAS 52338-87-1) and it will be offered globally under the Lupragen trademark.

Performance and emissions

Lupragen BisDMAPU is described as a balanced polyurethane catalyst that supports both gelling and blowing reactions, delivering reliable foam formation and dimensional stability. Its low volatility and low odor are cited as features that can help reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from finished foam products and meet low‑VOC requirements.

Applications

The catalyst is designed primarily for flexible PU foams, including slabstock and molded foams used in furniture, mattresses and automotive interiors. BASF also identifies additional uses in reactive hotmelt polyurethane adhesives, two‑component epoxy systems and cationic polymers.

Supply and positioning

BASF positions Lupragen BisDMAPU as a complement to Lupragen N 208, which was launched in December 2025. Production leverages BASF’s urea compound experience in Ludwigshafen and a backward integrated production setup to support reliable market supply.

Source: BASF

chemXplore Weekly

The week’s most important chemical-industry moves — analysed and summarised — delivered free every Wednesday.

Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe any time.

chemXplore 2026 industry outlook