As the industry clearly demonstrates, polyurethane is a material with an enormous variety of applications. In this context, properties such as cellular structure uniformity, dimensional stability, and compatibility between system components are not merely technical aspects, they are critical parameters that determine the final performance of the product. A clear example of this can be found in the design of our silicone stabilizer STB PU-2248.
This silicone surfactant has been developed to go beyond conventional performance. Its action allows for the formation of a fine, homogeneous, and stable cell structure, thereby optimizing the mechanical properties of polyurethane. Additionally, STB PU-2248 exhibits excellent emulsifying properties and a strong affinity for the incorporation of the various additives that make up the polyurethane formulation. This contributes to improved phase compatibility and more efficient dispersion of system components.
The engineering of the imperceptible
STB PU-2248 plays a decisive role in the initial phase of the foaming process, intervening in a controlled manner in formulations that, due to their reactive nature, tend to show instability. Thanks to its high polarity, this silicone surfactant has a remarkable emulsifying capacity, which facilitates the formation of a more homogeneous and stable emulsion. This action promotes nucleation and cell control, resulting in a fine, uniform, and well-distributed cellular structure, whose quality is evident in the final foam.
In water-based formulations or those using chemical blowing agents, STB PU-2248 performs as a medium-to-low power stabilizer, making it ideal for systems requiring a balance between closed-cell content and dimensional stability.
| Product | STB PU-2248 |
| TYPE | Silicone surfactant |
| POLARITY | High |
| CELLULAR STRUCTURE | Fine and uniform |
| STABILIZING CAPACITY | Medium to low |
| DIMENSIONAL STABILITY | Good |
| COMPATIBILITY | Water-blown systems and HFO |
| RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS | Discontinuous panels, PU soles, PU spray |
| SPRAY FOAM TYPE | Closed cell – 2 lb/ft³ (32 kg/m³) |
| ADDITIONAL IMPACT | Improves fire-retardant properties |
STB PU-2248 Value Proposition
A surfactant cannot be evaluated solely under controlled laboratory conditions. Its true value is revealed in real-world formulation environments, where it interacts with a complex network of variables. Some of the most decisive factors for its performance include:
- The base chemistry of the polyol and isocyanate
- The chemical nature of the blowing agent
- The interaction with catalysts
- The efficiency of the mixing, expansion, and curing process
STB PU-2248 has been designed with this operational complexity in mind. Its formulation allows it to maintain stable performance in demanding systems and challenging processing conditions.
It shows excellent behavior in the production of discontinuous panels or appliances, where parameters such as flowability and cell uniformity are critical to ensuring the quality of the final product. Likewise, in spray foam applications, such as closed-cell systems with densities of 2 lb/ft³ (≈32 kg/m³), it facilitates the formation of a homogeneous, closed, and fine cellular structure, optimizing the system’s thermal and mechanical properties.
Moreover, its chemical stability in acidic formulations or aggressive conditions positions it as a next-generation surfactant, capable of integrating into highly demanding formulations without compromising structural integrity, technical standards, or system performance.
