NCO Blocking Agent

NCO Blocking Agent

NCO Blocking Agent

Cardolite NX-2026

NX-2026 is a very high purity type of cardanol pioneered by Cardolite which can be used as an isocyanate blocking agent in polyurethane pre-polymers. This material is the preferred alternative to various other phenols and alkyphenols based on its favorable de-blocking conditions, low viscosity, and better labeling.

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Deblocking conditions by isocyanate:

TDI

Blocking Agent	Prepolymer Appearance	Deblock Temperature (°C)
NX-2026	Yellow liquid	115
Phenol	White solid	164
Nonyl Phenol	Thick liquid	185

MDI

Blocking Agent	Prepolymer Appearance	Deblock Temperature (°C)
NX-2026	Yellow waxy solid	145
Phenol	White solid	204

HMDI

Blocking Agent	Prepolymer Appearance	Deblock Temperature (°C)
NX-2026	Amber Liquid	155
Phenol	White solid	160

IPDI

Blocking Agent	Prepolymer Appearance	Deblock Temperature (°C)
NX-2026	Yellow liquid	130

Isocyanate Blocking Technology

Blocked isocyanate polyurethane prepolymers enable 1K polyurethane systems or modifier resins that offer lower free isocyanate content, improved storage stability, and reduced moisture sensitivity. These systems provide the convenience of single-component formulations while maintaining strong mechanical properties and chemical resistance after cure.

In coatings, they deliver excellent performance with fewer health risks and are widely applied across multiple technologies:

Liquid epoxy coatings
Electro-deposition and electrostatic spray coatings
Powder and coil coatings
Wire insulation and other heat-cured protective finishes

In adhesives and sealants, blocked prepolymers play a key role in enhancing versatility and adhesion performance:

Epoxy-amine hybrid adhesives
Hotmelts and pressure-sensitive adhesives
High-strength sealants for industrial applications

Blocking agents such as MEKO, alcohols, ɛ-caprolactam, amides, imidazoles, and pyrazoles determine both the curing profile and final coating properties. With growing health and regulatory concerns around traditional phenols, formulators are increasingly transitioning to safer, cost-effective alternatives, that maintain performance without compromising worker safety.