- Email: [email protected]
New foaming agents unveiled by Tramaco and Clariant
MATERIALS
Latest masterbatch range from Ampacet mimics weathered stone
A
ccording to New York-based masterbatch specialist Ampacet, its new Textural Elements™ masterbatch collection captures the ‘earthy colours and rugged textural nuances of centuries’ old natural stone’. The company says these effects mirror consumers’ ‘quest for authenticity’, with the flawed appearance giving the impression of being ‘real’. The Textural Elements proprietary colour formulation offers a range of textures and colours reminiscent of timeworn natural stone that has been exposed to the elements and the encroachment of plant life, Ampacet says. The collection comprises Rugged Russet, Tempered Travertine, Silvered Sandstone, Black Onyx, Sunkissed Moss and Weathered Rock. The new products are targeted at packaging applications in the personal care, cosmetics and household products market segments. Founded in 1937, Ampacet today employs more than 1500 people and operates 17 manufacturing sites in 11 countries: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Thailand, the UK and the USA. It also has four R&D centres in the Americas, Europe and Asia. Its products, which include black, white, colour and additive masterbatches, are sold in more than 80 countries. Contact: Ampacet Corp, Tarrytown, NY, USA. Tel: +1 914 631 6600, Web: www.ampacet.com
Eliokem launches new elastomeric modifier with enhanced resilience
F
rench company Eliokem has introduced a new grade of Sunigum elastomeric modifier suitable for use in a wide range of thermoplastics. Sunigum P2100 offers enhanced resilience properties, the company says, making it ideally suited for dynamic gasketing applications. The enhanced resilience of Sunigum P2100 allows compounders to formulate cost-effective flexible polyvinyl chloride window gaskets in any colour, with excellent
4
Additives for Polymers
low compression set, meeting all European specifications, according to Eliokem. The new modifier can be blended and processed with a large variety of thermoplastics such as TPU, COPE, ASA, ABS, PA and SEBS, bringing soft touch, enhanced processing, and resistance to chemicals, oils and fats, the company claims. Sunigum polymers are based on ‘unique’ acrylate chemistry and are produced in powder form via a specific patented process, Eliokem says. They reportedly offer excellent thermal stability for high-temperature extrusion, and provide outstanding heat and UV resistance to finished products. Eliokem is currently in the process of being taken over by US-based Omnova Solutions [ADPO, December 2010]. Contact: Eliokem, Villejust, France. Tel: +33 1 6929 2700, Web: www.eliokem.com
New foaming agents unveiled by Tramaco and Clariant
G
ermany’s Tramaco GmbH, a Rowa Group company, launched two foaming agent masterbatches for thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) at the K 2010 event, where Clariant Masterbatches also presented its latest generation of Hydrocerol® chemical foaming agent (CFA) masterbatches targeting new applications such as polyester plastic sheets used for food trays. Tramaco’s new Tracel G 6840 MS and Tracel G 6880 MS foaming agent masterbatches make it possible to achieve finer and more homogenous cell structures in TPE extrusion, according to the company. By using modified expandable microspheres even polymers sensitive to hydrolysis can be foamed to low densities – and without polymer degradation by chain scission, it explains. Tracel G 6840 MS and Tracel G 6880 MS further extend the available range of conventional CFAs into new applications, Tramaco believes. Both of the new products are easy-to-dose, dust-free granules designed for problem-free handling. Clariant Masterbatches’ newest Hydrocerol CFA products provide a finer, more-uniform and more-durable foam-cell structure, helping to reduce part weight and save raw materials, the company says. The improved CFA technology used in the new masterbatches makes it possible to achieve a highly uniform structure of cells as small as
February 2011
MATERIALS
20–100 micrometers in diameter, Clariant claims. No significant losses in mechanical properties have been reported and there are also no significant differences in appearance between structures produced with the CFA and those without. In combination with processing advances, the new masterbatches are opening new applications in polyester (PET) plastic sheets used for food trays; in automotive parts and other durable goods; and in injection- and blowmoulded plastics packaging, caps and closures. Added to plastics during processing, Hydrocerol CFAs decompose to produce carbon dioxide that forms bubbles in the polymer matrix when pressure is reduced as the resin enters the injection mould or exits the extrusion die. Material-use reductions of 7% are common in injection moulding, and some converters have reported savings of 25% in certain extrusion applications, Clariant says. At the same time, the CFA plasticizes the resin in the processing machine, meaning that less heat is needed to melt it, thus saving energy and reducing cooling times such that overall cycle times can be reduced by up to 10–15%. Contact: Clariant International Ltd, Muttenz, Switzerland. Tel: +41 61 469 6742, Web: www.clariant.com Or contact: Tramaco GmbH, Pinneberg, Germany. Tel: +49 4101 706 02, Web: www.tramaco.de
Final roundup of additive introductions from K 2010
I
n addition to the flame retardants, stabilizers and antioxidants, colorants and effect pigments covered elsewhere in this and other recent issues of ADPO, last year’s K 2010 show witnessed the introduction of a wide miscellany of more ‘niche’ polymer additives. Germany’s BYK-Chemie GmbH, part of the Altana group, introduced UV absorber Nanobyk®-3845 for polyolefin film applications, to protect goods and underlying substrates from harmful UV light. Based on nanoscale zinc oxide dispersed in a polyethylene carrier, the new additive absorbs both UV-A and UV-B, offering long-lasting UV protection, the firm says. It does not migrate into the substrate or the packaged goods as is commonly found with organic UV absorbers, BYK claims. Free-flowing microbeads guarantee easy incorporation and safe, reliable handling. Nanobyk-3845 com-
February 2011
plies with FDA and EU food contact regulations and can be used in pigmented and clear polyolefin applications. Fellow German firm Wacker showcased all-round thermoplastics additive Genioplast® Pellet S and Genioperl® P52, a powder additive for epoxy resins, at the K 2010 event. Genioplast Pellet S is a highly concentrated (65 wt%) silicone additive in pellet form. Its active ingredient is a non-crosslinked, ultra-high-molecular weight, linear silicone polymer. The carrier material is a pyrogenic silica tailored for the purpose and compatible with all thermoplastics; the additive can therefore be used to compound every type of thermoplastic, unlike conventional silicone masterbatches, Wacker says. Genioplast Pellet S works in two different ways: first, by improving the surface properties of the plastic article and, second, by making compounding and shaping of thermoplastics more efficient and economical. It is highly efficient, Wacker says, with just 0.1–1.0 wt% sufficient to bring about the process improvements and 1–5 wt% required to enhance the properties of plastic articles. Genioperl P52 is an impact modifier for epoxy resins; epoxy adhesives containing the additive can withstand heavy stresses caused by shock and vibration, Wacker claims. The modifier is composed of spherical particles with a soft-elastic, crosslinked silicone core and a hard shell made of an organic polymer that can bond to the reaction resin and yield a stable, fine dispersion. Wacker also used the show to present a new colour mixing system and service package. As well as new stabilizers and colorants [ibid, December 2010], Clariant used the K 2010 show to launch new grades of Licocene® waxes offering ‘easyhandling and all-round versatility and performance for plastics processors’. The portfolio has been extended with metallocene-catalysed grades Licocene PP 1302, PP 1502, PP 2602 and PP 6102. The waxes act as a dispersing and carrier agent in one for pre-mix formulations. They can be used universally, displaying high compatibility with countless polymers used in plastics applications, Clariant claims. As a sole carrier, inventory management is simplified and costs are reduced. Processors can achieve better control and faster dispersion of colorants, additives and fillers without any negative impact on physical and mechanical properties, the company says. The use of a sole carrier enables processors to create more highly filled formulations than traditionally possible. Particular performance needs can be tailored to specific applications through the controlled addition of the necessary ingredients, according to Clariant. Furthermore, the waxes allow ingredients to be shaped together into a
Additives for Polymers
5
Latest masterbatch range from Ampacet mimics weathered stone
A
ccording to New York-based masterbatch specialist Ampacet, its new Textural Elements™ masterbatch collection captures the ‘earthy colours and rugged textural nuances of centuries’ old natural stone’. The company says these effects mirror consumers’ ‘quest for authenticity’, with the flawed appearance giving the impression of being ‘real’. The Textural Elements proprietary colour formulation offers a range of textures and colours reminiscent of timeworn natural stone that has been exposed to the elements and the encroachment of plant life, Ampacet says. The collection comprises Rugged Russet, Tempered Travertine, Silvered Sandstone, Black Onyx, Sunkissed Moss and Weathered Rock. The new products are targeted at packaging applications in the personal care, cosmetics and household products market segments. Founded in 1937, Ampacet today employs more than 1500 people and operates 17 manufacturing sites in 11 countries: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Thailand, the UK and the USA. It also has four R&D centres in the Americas, Europe and Asia. Its products, which include black, white, colour and additive masterbatches, are sold in more than 80 countries. Contact: Ampacet Corp, Tarrytown, NY, USA. Tel: +1 914 631 6600, Web: www.ampacet.com
Eliokem launches new elastomeric modifier with enhanced resilience
F
rench company Eliokem has introduced a new grade of Sunigum elastomeric modifier suitable for use in a wide range of thermoplastics. Sunigum P2100 offers enhanced resilience properties, the company says, making it ideally suited for dynamic gasketing applications. The enhanced resilience of Sunigum P2100 allows compounders to formulate cost-effective flexible polyvinyl chloride window gaskets in any colour, with excellent
4
Additives for Polymers
low compression set, meeting all European specifications, according to Eliokem. The new modifier can be blended and processed with a large variety of thermoplastics such as TPU, COPE, ASA, ABS, PA and SEBS, bringing soft touch, enhanced processing, and resistance to chemicals, oils and fats, the company claims. Sunigum polymers are based on ‘unique’ acrylate chemistry and are produced in powder form via a specific patented process, Eliokem says. They reportedly offer excellent thermal stability for high-temperature extrusion, and provide outstanding heat and UV resistance to finished products. Eliokem is currently in the process of being taken over by US-based Omnova Solutions [ADPO, December 2010]. Contact: Eliokem, Villejust, France. Tel: +33 1 6929 2700, Web: www.eliokem.com
New foaming agents unveiled by Tramaco and Clariant
G
ermany’s Tramaco GmbH, a Rowa Group company, launched two foaming agent masterbatches for thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) at the K 2010 event, where Clariant Masterbatches also presented its latest generation of Hydrocerol® chemical foaming agent (CFA) masterbatches targeting new applications such as polyester plastic sheets used for food trays. Tramaco’s new Tracel G 6840 MS and Tracel G 6880 MS foaming agent masterbatches make it possible to achieve finer and more homogenous cell structures in TPE extrusion, according to the company. By using modified expandable microspheres even polymers sensitive to hydrolysis can be foamed to low densities – and without polymer degradation by chain scission, it explains. Tracel G 6840 MS and Tracel G 6880 MS further extend the available range of conventional CFAs into new applications, Tramaco believes. Both of the new products are easy-to-dose, dust-free granules designed for problem-free handling. Clariant Masterbatches’ newest Hydrocerol CFA products provide a finer, more-uniform and more-durable foam-cell structure, helping to reduce part weight and save raw materials, the company says. The improved CFA technology used in the new masterbatches makes it possible to achieve a highly uniform structure of cells as small as
February 2011
MATERIALS
20–100 micrometers in diameter, Clariant claims. No significant losses in mechanical properties have been reported and there are also no significant differences in appearance between structures produced with the CFA and those without. In combination with processing advances, the new masterbatches are opening new applications in polyester (PET) plastic sheets used for food trays; in automotive parts and other durable goods; and in injection- and blowmoulded plastics packaging, caps and closures. Added to plastics during processing, Hydrocerol CFAs decompose to produce carbon dioxide that forms bubbles in the polymer matrix when pressure is reduced as the resin enters the injection mould or exits the extrusion die. Material-use reductions of 7% are common in injection moulding, and some converters have reported savings of 25% in certain extrusion applications, Clariant says. At the same time, the CFA plasticizes the resin in the processing machine, meaning that less heat is needed to melt it, thus saving energy and reducing cooling times such that overall cycle times can be reduced by up to 10–15%. Contact: Clariant International Ltd, Muttenz, Switzerland. Tel: +41 61 469 6742, Web: www.clariant.com Or contact: Tramaco GmbH, Pinneberg, Germany. Tel: +49 4101 706 02, Web: www.tramaco.de
Final roundup of additive introductions from K 2010
I
n addition to the flame retardants, stabilizers and antioxidants, colorants and effect pigments covered elsewhere in this and other recent issues of ADPO, last year’s K 2010 show witnessed the introduction of a wide miscellany of more ‘niche’ polymer additives. Germany’s BYK-Chemie GmbH, part of the Altana group, introduced UV absorber Nanobyk®-3845 for polyolefin film applications, to protect goods and underlying substrates from harmful UV light. Based on nanoscale zinc oxide dispersed in a polyethylene carrier, the new additive absorbs both UV-A and UV-B, offering long-lasting UV protection, the firm says. It does not migrate into the substrate or the packaged goods as is commonly found with organic UV absorbers, BYK claims. Free-flowing microbeads guarantee easy incorporation and safe, reliable handling. Nanobyk-3845 com-
February 2011
plies with FDA and EU food contact regulations and can be used in pigmented and clear polyolefin applications. Fellow German firm Wacker showcased all-round thermoplastics additive Genioplast® Pellet S and Genioperl® P52, a powder additive for epoxy resins, at the K 2010 event. Genioplast Pellet S is a highly concentrated (65 wt%) silicone additive in pellet form. Its active ingredient is a non-crosslinked, ultra-high-molecular weight, linear silicone polymer. The carrier material is a pyrogenic silica tailored for the purpose and compatible with all thermoplastics; the additive can therefore be used to compound every type of thermoplastic, unlike conventional silicone masterbatches, Wacker says. Genioplast Pellet S works in two different ways: first, by improving the surface properties of the plastic article and, second, by making compounding and shaping of thermoplastics more efficient and economical. It is highly efficient, Wacker says, with just 0.1–1.0 wt% sufficient to bring about the process improvements and 1–5 wt% required to enhance the properties of plastic articles. Genioperl P52 is an impact modifier for epoxy resins; epoxy adhesives containing the additive can withstand heavy stresses caused by shock and vibration, Wacker claims. The modifier is composed of spherical particles with a soft-elastic, crosslinked silicone core and a hard shell made of an organic polymer that can bond to the reaction resin and yield a stable, fine dispersion. Wacker also used the show to present a new colour mixing system and service package. As well as new stabilizers and colorants [ibid, December 2010], Clariant used the K 2010 show to launch new grades of Licocene® waxes offering ‘easyhandling and all-round versatility and performance for plastics processors’. The portfolio has been extended with metallocene-catalysed grades Licocene PP 1302, PP 1502, PP 2602 and PP 6102. The waxes act as a dispersing and carrier agent in one for pre-mix formulations. They can be used universally, displaying high compatibility with countless polymers used in plastics applications, Clariant claims. As a sole carrier, inventory management is simplified and costs are reduced. Processors can achieve better control and faster dispersion of colorants, additives and fillers without any negative impact on physical and mechanical properties, the company says. The use of a sole carrier enables processors to create more highly filled formulations than traditionally possible. Particular performance needs can be tailored to specific applications through the controlled addition of the necessary ingredients, according to Clariant. Furthermore, the waxes allow ingredients to be shaped together into a
Additives for Polymers
5