Determination of hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI)

Hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) ( CAS No. 822-06-0) is an aliphatic isocyanate commonly used in the formulation of polyurethanes , coatings , adhesives , and industrial varnishes . It imparts excellent mechanical and chemical resistance , but its potential toxicity warrants strict monitoring of its residual presence in finished products.

HDI analysis allows the determination of the free isocyanate content in polymers, paints, varnishes, textiles or packaging, in order to guarantee their safety of use and regulatory compliance .

Analytical methods: HPLC and GC-MS

HDI analysis relies on chromatographic techniques specific to reactive and volatile compounds:

• HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) : used after derivatization of HDI to stabilize the compound and allow for accurate quantification.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : suitable for polymeric matrices and films, allowing sensitive detection of residual isocyanates in trace amounts.

These methods guarantee a reliable, reproducible analysis that complies with international standards (ISO, EN, ASTM) for the control of isocyanates in industrial materials and products.

Industrial and regulatory applications

The determination of hexamethylene diisocyanate is primarily intended for the following sectors:

• Packaging and plastic materials : control of isocyanate residues in films, foams and barrier layers.
• Polymer and coatings industry : verification of the conformity of polyurethane formulations and quality control of finishes.
• Technical textiles and adhesives : analysis of polymerized or hardened products to ensure user safety.
• Migration studies and REACH compliance : monitoring of residual HDI content according to the requirements of European regulations on hazardous substances.

This service can be combined with the determination of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) or methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) for a complete characterization of the isocyanates present in the polymeric matrices.

Affected matrices

Our partner laboratories perform HDI analysis on different types of materials:

• Polyurethane films, foams and polymers
• Industrial coatings, paints and varnishes
• Technical textiles, adhesives and glues
• Food or technical packaging
• Production residues or workplace air samples (on request)

Each protocol is adapted to the nature of the matrix and the level of detection required , in order to guarantee the accuracy and conformity of the analytical results.

YesWeLab expertise

At YesWeLab , we work with an international network of over 200 partner laboratories , located in France, Europe and internationally , rigorously selected for their technical expertise and their ISO 17025 and COFRAC accreditations .

Our scientific team assists you in choosing the right laboratory , selecting the most appropriate analytical method , and providing comprehensive support for your samples , from the initial quote to the delivery of results. Our digital platform allows you to centralize your requests , obtain quick quotes , and track your analyses in real time .

Since 2020, many manufacturers, formulators and design offices have trusted us to guarantee the quality and regulatory compliance of their materials and coatings.

Order an analysis of hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI)

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