How to Select the Right Plasticizer for Polymers?
Plasticizers are the major functional additives transforming the physical properties of polymers such as PVC, PU, acrylic, nitrile and rubbers to create a whole world of flexible and durable finished articles for high demanding applications. The world plasticizer consumption was around 7.82 million MT in 2017, up nearly 25% over 6 years [2].
Plasticizers: Types, Uses, Classification, Selection & Regulation
Most common plasticiser chemistries include citrates, benzoates, ortho-phthalates, terephthalates, adipates, azelates, sebacates, and trimellitates. Plasticizers are the most common additives used in the plastics industry. But, selecting the right plasticizer for an application has always been a daunting task.
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Selecting Plasticizers for Adhesives and Sealants
Plasticizers are one of the commonly used additives in adhesives and sealants formulations. They improve the performance of adhesives by creating much-needed flexibility, optimizing viscosity, toughness, set time functionality, impact resistance, and even adhesion.
Plasticizers - Coatings Ingredients Selection
Plasticizers are additives that increase the elasticity of coatings based on film-forming materials. In order to meet specific demands for your application, proper film-formation is essential. But, selecting the right plasticizer with a unique property of your choice is sometimes challenging.
- What is a plasticizer chemistry?
- Plasticizers are the most used additives in the plastics industry. They are generally available as non-volatile, colorless liquids. They improve the properties of the polymer. With several plasticizer chemistries available in the market choosing the right one can be daunting. In this guide, you will read more about:
- What is a polymeric plasticizer?
- Polymeric plasticizers are typically made from aliphatic dibasic acids such as adipic acid and diols. They are primarily valued for their permanence. These plasticizers are generally classified as polyesters, not adipates. Many have low solvency for PVC and high viscosity. Both these factors can make processing f-PVC compounds difficult.
- What are plasticizers used for?
- When added to a coating formulation, plasticizers improve film formation and gloss, increase the resistance of a coating to heat and light and enhance mechanical properties like adhesion, elongation etc. Plasticizers are widely employed in industrial and automotive applications where toughness and flexibility are priorities.
- What is a primary plasticizer?
- A primary plasticizer enhances elongation, softness and flexibility of polymer. They are highly compatible with polymers and can be added in large quantities. For example: up to 50% of vinyl gloves are made up of plasticizers, which make the PVC flexible and soft enough to wear.
- What are the benefits of polymeric plasticizers?
- Check out the table below for the benefits of polymeric plasticizers. As we shift to sustainable ingredients, bio-based plasticizers continue to gain further importance. They can be used as a phthalate alternative. They also lower our dependence on fossil fuel-based feedstock. The common feedstock for this class of plasticizers is mentioned below.
- Are polymeric plasticizers adipates?
- These plasticizers are generally classified as polyesters, not adipates. Many have low solvency for PVC and high viscosity. Both these factors can make processing f-PVC compounds difficult. Many have poor low-temperature properties and may be sensitive to moisture. Check out the table below for the benefits of polymeric plasticizers.
