Materials (December 01, 2003)

Mold release replaces zinc stearate

A new powdered internal mold release has been specifically developed for polyester bulk molding compounds (BMC) and sheet molding compounds (SMC). MoldWiz INT-4082 is intended as a replacement for zinc stearate, the traditional internal mold release used in BMC and SMC formulations. The product is targeted for automotive and other high-end applications where a non-fogging internal mold release is desired. INT-4082 can be loaded at lower additive levels, resulting in reduced volatility of residual internal mold release.

Axel Plastics Research Laboratories 718-672-8300

Modifiers improve low temperature properties

Durastrength 400 and Durastrength 400R are the first two grades in a group of innovative acrylate-based specialty impact modifiers for engineering polymers. The 400 product combines outstanding impact resistance at low temperatures (down to -50 C) with excellent weathering resistance. These 400-series additives are especially effective in polycarbonate, helping to improve processing and impart durability to molded-in-color parts.

Durastrength 400R has better compatibility with polybutylene terephthalate, polyesters and polyester blends, and is therefore suitable for leisure and gardening applications (e.g. lawnmowers).

Atofina Canada Inc. 800-567-5726

TPU with high transparency

Several newly developed grades of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) Desmopan have improved properties compared to conventional grades. The new grades have high transparency, even with thick walls, good UV stability and a significantly lower yellowness value. The new materials are targeted mainly at the sport and recreation markets, where high levels of material transparency are required to accommodate decorative features, coloring and unique design aspects. The TPUs meet the demands of new high-wear applications, for example logos and other branding features in footwear and ski boots.

Bayer Inc. 416-248-0771

Cost-effective PVC concentrates for wire and cable

A new series of PVC color concentrates will allow wire and cable manufacturers to save costs while meeting Munsell and NEMA standards. The 16 off-the-shelf concentrates provide better dispersion, easier processing and superior color development than the 31 Teknor Color products they are formulated to replace, while covering the same range of colors.

All 16 products are Munsell colors specified in Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) standard 359-A and meet standards specified by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Additionally, 12 of the 16 are formulated without heavy metals. Recommended addition levels in most PVC compounds are the same as for conventional concentrates, typically 1%.

Teknor Color Company 401-725-8000

Flame retardant compatible with polyesters, polyamide

Firemaster CP-44HF flame retardant is a high flow, polybrominated styrene co-polymer that offers unique compatibility in thermoplastic polyesters and high temperature polyamides.

Produced by Great Lakes Chemical, Firemaster CP-44HF provides higher thermal stability, increased flow, and demonstrates improved compatibility in the host polymer, namely engineering polymers such as PBT, PET, other specialty thermoplastic polyesters, and most polyamides. Its lower molecular weight also allows Firemaster CP-44HF to work well in applications such as connectors, where the miniaturization and thin walling of parts is a key issue.

The additive also provides improved color stability and a reduced tendency for delamination during molding.

Great Lakes Chemical Corp. 317-715-3000