SETAMINE US-138 is a specialized cationic surfactant based on amine chemistry, developed for demanding industrial and technical formulation applications where strong surface activity and reliable performance are required.
SETAMINE US-138 exhibits a high affinity for negatively charged surfaces, enabling effective adsorption at interfaces and the formation of stable surface films that support wetting, emulsification, and corrosion protection.
SETAMINE US-138 is widely used in metalworking fluids, industrial cleaners, and specialty chemical systems, where it enhances formulation stability, corrosion inhibition, surface conditioning, and overall process robustness.
Synonyms: Setamine® US-138, Cationic amine surfactant, Amine-based cationic surfactant, Industrial cationic surfactant, Amine functional surfactant, Cationic surface-active agent, Amine-type emulsifier, Cationic emulsifying agent, Amine corrosion inhibitor additive, Cationic wetting agent, Amine-based surface conditioner, Cationic dispersing agent, Industrial amine additive, Cationic process aid
SETAMINE US-138 is a high-performance cationic surfactant based on amine chemistry, designed for use as an emulsifier, corrosion inhibitor, and surface-active additive in industrial formulations.
SETAMINE US-138 is particularly valued for its strong adsorption onto negatively charged surfaces, which provides effective interfacial activity, improved dispersion, and enhanced surface protection.
SETAMINE US-138 is compatible with a wide range of aqueous systems and performs reliably under varying pH and processing conditions.
In practical applications, SETAMINE US-138 is used to improve stability, wetting, and conditioning properties in formulations such as metalworking fluids, industrial cleaners, emulsions, and specialty chemical systems.
SETAMINE US-138's cationic nature enables it to form protective films on metal surfaces, contributing to corrosion resistance and lubrication performance.
SETAMINE US-138 resin is a highly reactive, n-butylated high imino melamine crosslinker supplied in n-butanol.
Like other high imino melamine resins, SETAMINE US-138 has a high tendency to self-condense resulting in films with high film hardness that can be adjusted based on loading.
SETAMINE US-138's hydrophobic nature improves substrate wetting, flow and leveling, and humidity and salt spray resistance making it suitable for a wide range of applications including automotive topcoats and general industrial finishes.
SETAMINE US-138 is a specialized cationic surfactant based on amine chemistry, developed for demanding industrial and technical formulation applications where strong surface activity and reliable performance are required.
SETAMINE US-138 exhibits a high affinity for negatively charged surfaces, enabling effective adsorption at interfaces and the formation of stable surface films.
This behavior makes SETAMINE US-138 particularly valuable in systems where wetting, emulsification, corrosion protection, and surface modification are critical.
In aqueous and water-based formulations, SETAMINE US-138 functions as an efficient emulsifier and dispersing aid, promoting uniform distribution of oils, additives, and other hydrophobic components.
SETAMINE US-138 improves formulation stability by reducing interfacial tension and enhancing compatibility between dissimilar phases.
SETAMINE US-138's chemical structure also allows it to perform consistently over a broad pH range and under varying process conditions, which is advantageous in industrial environments subject to temperature fluctuations and mechanical stress.
SETAMINE US-138 is widely used in metalworking fluids, industrial cleaners, and specialty chemical systems, where it contributes to corrosion inhibition, lubrication performance, and surface conditioning.
By adsorbing onto metal substrates, SETAMINE US-138 forms a protective layer that helps reduce metal–metal contact, limits corrosive attack, and extends equipment life.
In cleaning and treatment formulations, SETAMINE US-138 enhances wetting and soil removal while supporting overall formulation robustness.
Uses of SETAMINE US-138:
SETAMINE US-138 is used primarily as a multifunctional cationic surfactant in industrial formulations where surface activity, emulsification, and corrosion protection are required.
SETAMINE US-138 is commonly applied in metalworking fluids and metal treatment systems to provide corrosion inhibition, lubrication support, and surface conditioning by forming protective adsorbed films on metal surfaces.
In industrial and institutional cleaners, SETAMINE US-138 improves wetting, emulsification of oily soils, and overall cleaning efficiency.
SETAMINE US-138 is also used in specialty emulsions and chemical formulations as a cationic emulsifier or dispersing aid, enhancing phase stability and compatibility in aqueous systems.
Additionally, SETAMINE US-138 finds application in process aids and specialty chemical systems where strong surface affinity and reliable performance under variable pH and processing conditions are essential.
Backbone Polymer Selection:
SETAMINE US-138 resin is an effective crosslinker for backbone polymer resins containing hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amide functional groups, such as those found on alkyd, polyester or acrylic resins.
Although the optimum level of SETAMINE US-138 resin should be determined experimentally, ratios of 25 to 35% based on resin solids are typically most effective.
Catalysis of SETAMINE US-138:
SETAMINE US-138 resin may not require the addition of an acid catalyst to the formulation to obtain effective cure.
In many instances, the acidity of the backbone polymer in the formulation is sufficient to catalyze the reaction under normal baking conditions (15 - 20 minutes at 130 -150°C).
At lower bake temperatures, a catalyst, such as CYCAT® 296-9 is recommended at a concentration of 0.5 - 1.0% on total resin solids.
Formulation Stability of SETAMINE US-138:
The stability of solvent-borne systems containing SETAMINE US-138 resin can be enhanced by the addition of primary alcohols, tertiary amines, or a combination of these.
Low molecular weight primary alcohols such as ethanol or n-butanol are most effective.
Recommended amines are triethylamine (TEA) or dimethylethanolamine (DMEA) at a concentration of 0.5 - 1.0% on total binder solids.
Stability and Reactivity of SETAMINE US-138:
Chemical stability:
Stable under normal conditions of use, handling, and storage.
Reactivity:
No hazardous reactions are expected under normal industrial conditions.
Conditions to avoid:
Excessive heat, open flames, strong oxidizing environments, and prolonged exposure to extreme pH conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases.
Hazardous decomposition products:
Thermal decomposition may produce nitrogen oxides, carbon oxides, and irritating amine vapors.
Handling and Storage of SETAMINE US-138:
Handling:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Avoid inhalation of vapors or mists and prevent direct contact with skin and eyes.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Storage conditions:
Keep containers tightly closed and protected from heat and direct sunlight.
Packaging materials:
Compatible, corrosion-resistant containers are recommended.
Shelf life:
Stable for extended periods when stored under recommended conditions.
First Aid Measures of SETAMINE US-138:
Inhalation:
Move the affected person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin contact:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical advice if irritation occurs.
Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical advice if discomfort occurs.
Firefighting Measures of SETAMINE US-138:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Water spray, foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Specific hazards:
Combustion may release toxic and irritating gases, including nitrogen oxides and carbon oxides.
Protective equipment for firefighters:
Self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective gear.
Firefighting instructions:
Cool exposed containers with water spray to prevent rupture or pressure buildup.
Accidental Release Measures of SETAMINE US-138:
Personal precautions:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, waterways, or soil.
Methods for cleanup:
Absorb spilled material with inert materials such as sand or absorbent pads and place in suitable containers for disposal according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of SETAMINE US-138:
Engineering controls:
Ensure adequate local and general ventilation.
Respiratory protection:
Use an appropriate respirator if vapors or mists are generated.
Hand protection:
Chemical-resistant protective gloves are recommended.
Eye protection:
Safety goggles or a face shield are recommended.
Skin protection:
Protective clothing should be worn as required to prevent prolonged or repeated contact.
Identifiers of SETAMINE US-138:
Product name: SETAMINE US-138
Physical form: Liquid
Color: Pale yellow to amber
Odor: Mild amine-like odor
Properties of SETAMINE US-138:
Physical state: Liquid
Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy liquid
Color: Pale yellow to amber
Odor: Mild, characteristic amine odor
Chemical nature: Cationic amine-based surfactant
pH: Alkaline
Density: Typical for amine-based surfactants
Ionic character: Cationic