Epoxy Curing Agent DETA (Diethylenetriamine)

DETA is a low-molecular-weight aliphatic amine with very high amine value (1010–1080 mgKOH/g), giving fast cure, high crosslink density and excellent chemical resistance. However, it has high vapor pressure, can cause skin sensitization and is prone to blushing on cure. Polyamide hardeners are longer-chain, less volatile, less hazardous and more flexible, but give lower chemical resistance and slower cure. DETA is preferred for industrial protective coatings and structural applications; polyamides for decorative and less aggressive environments.