By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : December 10, 2025 8:27 am
Broadly applicable for production of flexible, semi-rigid and rigid foams
BASF has introduced Lupragen N 208, a new low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) amine catalyst for the production of polyurethane (PU) foams.
The product is a "reactive catalyst" that chemically bonds into the polymer network, preventing it from migrating out of the foam and causing emissions. Lupragen N 208 will be produced at BASF’s Ludwigshafen Verbund site and will be marketed worldwide under the Lupragen trademark.
The catalyst is designed to help manufacturers meet stringent low-VOC standards for products where indoor air quality and odor are critical concerns.
Unlike many conventional non-reactive catalysts that can remain mobile and lead to emissions over time, Lupragen N 208 integrates into the PU polymer network during foam production.
Overall, Lupragen N 208 particularly suitable for the manufacture of PU products for applications in which stringent low VOC standards must be met. Examples range from flexible foams for mattresses and upholstery to more rigid foams for automotive interiors such as dashboards or armrests.
“We welcome Lupragen N 208 as new member in our portfolio of Lupragens to complement our existing blowing catalyst Lupragen N 205 (Bis(2-dimethylamino-ethyl)ether, BDMAEE). With this development we are responding to an increasing demand for low-VOC solutions from our customers,” says Gereon Altenhoff, Product Manager PU Catalysts, Intermediates Europe, BASF.