Page 44 - Plastics News October 2024
P. 44
FEATURE NEWS
consumption.
♦ They can reduce die buildup.
♦ They facilitate faster color changeovers.
Enhancing Mechanical Properties
♦ Optical brighteners enhance the whiteness
or brightness of a product, giving it a more
Additives such as plasticizers, toughening appealing look, especially in packaging ma-
agents, and impact modifiers are used for ap- terials.
plications requiring greater toughness, flexibility,
or impact resistance. Aging Resistance
♦ Plasticizers increase the flexibility of rigid Antioxidants, UV absorbers, and PVC stabilizers
plastics, making them more suitable for protect plastics from degradation caused by ex-
products like PVC cables or flexible contain- posure to heat, light, or oxygen.
ers.
♦ UV absorbers, in particular, are essential for
outdoor products like garden furniture or
window frames, which need to withstand
prolonged sunlight exposure without be-
coming brittle or discolored.
Surface Properties
Surface properties such as anti-static behavior
and anti-fogging can be critical in certain appli-
cations.
Impact modifiers are crucial in applications where
♦ Anti-static agents prevent the build-up of
high strength and durability are needed, such as
static electricity, reducing dust and improv-
in automotive components.
ing the appearance of products like packag-
Optical Properties ing films.
Manufacturers often add nucleating agents and ♦ Anti-fog agents are helpful in food packag-
optical brighteners to products that require en- ing to prevent moisture condensation, en-
hanced transparency or aesthetic appeal. suring product visibility and freshness.
♦ Nucleating agents help control the crystal- Reducing Costs
lization process, improving clarity and a
Manufacturers frequently use diluents and fill-
smoother surface.
44 PLASTICS NEWS October 2024
