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PIR Catalysts | VALIREX & VALIKAT K

Trimerization Catalysts for Rigid Foam - Polyisocyanurate (PIR) Insulation Systems

Our VALIKAT potassium catalysts are top-quality and high-purity potassium-based metal carboxylates designed to promote the trimerization of isocyanates in rigid polyurethane foam – PIR insulation systems.  

By controlling the reaction profile and curing process, our trimerization catalysts ensure a highly cross-linked polyisocyanurate foam structure, providing the PIR foam with outstanding thermal insulation properties, as well as remarkable strength and durability

Selecting the right catalyst is crucial for achieving the perfect rise and cure profile, leading to the desired end-properties of your PIR compound. Find the match for your optimal formulation in the overview below! 

catalysts for a smooth reaction profile in PIR production

Need additional help in choosing a suitable Trimerization Catalyst?

Potassium Octoate Catalysts


Potassium octoate, the go-to catalyst for PIR foam, delivers excellent trimerization performance. We offer various grades with different metal content and solvents, providing diverse benefits and characteristics. Explore our portfolio below. 

VALIREX K 10 DEG Potassium octoate with 10% metal content, diluted in DEG.  
Low color. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam. 
VALIREX K 15 DEG Potassium octoate with 15% metal content, diluted in DEG. 
Low color. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam. 
VALIREX K 15 DEG 30 Potassium octoate with 14-15% metal content, diluted in DEG. 
Low-viscosity grade, low color. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam.
VALIREX K 16 LO Potassium octoate with 16% metal content, diluted in an OH-free solvent. 
Reduced isocyanate consumption. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam.

Potassium Octoate Replacement – Alternative Potassium Catalysts


We are actively developing alternative catalysts to replace traditional potassium octoate, addressing current toxicity concerns associated with the substance 2-ethylhexanoic acid and its metal salts. 

Curious about our commitment to creating safer, low-toxicity chemicals with a lower environmental footprint? Learn more about our octoate replacement initiatives. 

VALIKAT K 1410 HR 2-EHA-free potassium catalyst with 14% metal content, diluted in DEG. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam.   
VALIKAT K 1509 HR 2-EHA-free potassium catalyst with 15% metal content, diluted in DEG. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam.  
VALIKAT K 1509 LR 2-EHA-free potassium catalyst with 15% metal content, diluted in DEG. 
Trimerization catalyst for PIR foam.  

Your experienced partner for tailor-made PIR Catalyst solutions.  
Get in touch with our experts.


If our product overview does not quite match your requirements, Umicore is well-equipped to provide customized solutions for your distinct formulation or process needs. As an experienced producer of metal carboxylates, we are dedicated to developing the right product. Our R&D team is happy to assist you with analysis and testing to meet desired specifications. To ensure a smooth scale-up of your tailor-made catalyst, we also provide pilot plant capacity. 

Stijn Dekeukeleire

Stijn Dekeukeleire

Application Manager Catalysts
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