Is PUR hot melt dangerous to work with?
PUR hot melt contains reactive isocyanate. Vapor from hot PUR, and skin contact with uncured material, can irritate and can sensitize some people so later exposure triggers asthma-like symptoms. Run it with good ventilation, a closed or covered melt system, gloves, eye protection and heat protection, and follow the SDS. Call 800-249-0337 for the SDS.
Contains reactive isocyanate. Read the SDS before use; use ventilation and protective gear; hot melt can cause burns. Call us for data sheets
This page is general guidance, not a substitute for the SDS for your grade, your equipment maker’s manual, or your plant’s safety program and regulations.
The hazard in plain terms
Isocyanates react with moisture. That is what cures PUR, and it is also why they can react with skin, eyes and airways. The main exposure points are vapor from molten PUR, especially when it is heated hot, open to the room or during maintenance and purging, and skin contact with uncured glue. Fully cured PUR in the bond is typically a stable thermoset.
Controls, in order
| Control | What it means on the floor |
|---|---|
| Engineering | Use a closed or covered melt system made for PUR. Use local exhaust ventilation at the melter and application point. Run the lowest temperature in the grade’s range. |
| Work practice | Keep lids closed. Open packs only as needed. Plan purges and tank work with ventilation running. |
| PPE | Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and heat-resistant gloves for hot work. Respiratory protection where your safety team or the SDS calls for it. |
| Health | Anyone with persistent cough, wheeze, chest tightness or skin rash after working with PUR should report it and see a physician. |
Storage
Keep PUR sealed and dry until use; moisture starts the cure. Cattie offers forms sized to use: 100 g foil packs for small binders, 260 g cartridges, 2 kg slugs, pails and drums, so less material sits open.
Clean-up and purge
Clean up before PUR cures in the tank; cured PUR can only be scraped out. See how to purge PUR hot melt.
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Related
PUR hot melt · How to apply, handle, clean up and store reactive hot melt · How to purge PUR · Liquid PUR
PUR safe handling FAQ
What is the main hazard with PUR hot melt?
PUR contains reactive isocyanate. Vapor from molten PUR and skin contact with uncured glue can irritate and can sensitize some people. Fully cured PUR in the bond is typically a stable thermoset.
What PPE should operators wear?
Typically chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection and heat-resistant gloves for hot work, plus respiratory protection where the SDS or your safety team calls for it. Follow the SDS for your grade.
Do I need ventilation for PUR?
Yes. Use local exhaust at the melter and application point, keep the melt system closed or covered, and keep ventilation running during purges and tank work.
How should I store PUR?
Sealed and dry until use, since moisture starts the cure. Open only what the run needs.
Where do I get the SDS?
Call 800-249-0337 or email sales@cattieadhesives.com. SDS and samples are available on request.
