In the polyurethane (PU) coating industry, the hardener determines the durability, gloss, and chemical resistance of the coating film. Covestro – a pioneer in high-performance materials – has developed two representative hardener systems: Bayhydur and Desmodur. Both belong to the polyisocyanate group but differ in base system and technical orientation. These two product lines complement each other, offering a comprehensive choice for modern PU coating applications.
BAYHYDUR – COVESTRO’S WATER-BASED HARDENER SYSTEM
Structure and Composition
Bayhydur is a water-based polyisocyanate designed for two-component PU coatings. Its stable molecular structure helps it disperse well in water while maintaining high reactivity. The main advantages of Bayhydur are low VOC, low odor, environmental friendliness, and easy cleaning after application. When combined with water-based polyols, it forms a durable, flexible, and chemical-resistant polymer network.
Technical Performance
Bayhydur is used in water-based coatings for wood, plastics, industrial floors, and metals. The Bayhydur system can significantly reduce VOC emissions, making it trusted by furniture, automotive, and industrial equipment manufacturers. In addition, this product line is suitable for automated production lines requiring stability and high safety. Bayhydur is now a popular choice in green-certified coating systems such as Blue Angel or EU Ecolabel.
Practical Applications
Bayhydur is used in water-based coatings for wood, plastics, industrial floors, and metals. With its ability to greatly reduce VOC emissions, the Bayhydur system is trusted by furniture, automotive, and industrial equipment manufacturers. The product is especially suitable for production lines that require clean processes and safe working environments.

DESMODUR – HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLVENT-BASED HARDENER SYSTEM
Structure and Composition
Desmodur is a solvent-based polyisocyanate line, known for high performance and fast reactivity. Covestro has developed several variants such as N75, N3300, and L75, based on HDI or IPDI. The structure of Desmodur allows dense polymer crosslinking after reacting with polyols. As a result, the coating film becomes hard, durable, transparent, and less affected by light or temperature over long periods of use.
Technical Performance
Desmodur provides deep gloss, strong chemical resistance, and excellent UV durability. Its fast-drying property helps improve coating efficiency. The coating film has superior mechanical strength, scratch resistance, and minimal yellowing. Desmodur grades from Covestro are considered the gold standard for industrial and high-end decorative coatings.
Practical Applications
Desmodur is used in automotive, metal, outdoor, and clear topcoat applications. Desmodur coatings maintain gloss, color, and durability even under harsh weather or industrial chemicals. The product is especially suitable for applications requiring high finish quality such as premium decorative coatings, electronic devices, and outdoor metal structures. With the Desmodur system, coatings always deliver performance and aesthetics under all conditions.

COMPARISON BETWEEN BAYHYDUR AND DESMODUR
|
Criteria |
Bayhydur |
Desmodur |
| System Base | Water-based | Solvent-based |
| VOC Level | Very low, environmentally friendly | Medium, requires emission control |
| Clarity & Gloss | High, natural | Very high, deep gloss |
| Chemical & UV Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Main Applications | Wood, plastic, industrial floors | Automotive, metal, high-end topcoat |

VICHEM – EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF COVESTRO RESINS AND HARDENERS IN VIETNAM
Vichem is the exclusive distributor of Desmodur, Desmophen, Uralac, and other Covestro products in Vietnam. We not only provide high-quality materials but also deliver after-sales service at international standards.
- Technical Consultation: Supporting customers in selecting suitable materials for their applications.
- Color Matching Tests: Vichem’s experts perform color testing to ensure results meet design standards.
- Application Support: Assisting customers during production integration to ensure optimal performance.
For more information, please contact us via:
📞 Hotline: 08 1790 1790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
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🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
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