A masterbatch is a solid or liquid additive for plastics that adds color (color masterbatch) or creates new properties (additive masterbatch) to the plastic substrate. A masterbatch is a compact mixture of pigments and/or encapsulated additives that is added to the molten resin during the thermal process and cut into small granules after cooling.
- Saves less volume than pre-compound materials
- Optimal dispersion of pigment or additive
- Prevents dust from entering the polymer bed
- Eliminates error and testing stages for formulation
- Reduces cleaning costs and prevents waste of raw materials and product
- Reduces costs in the use of paint or additive
In recent years, new products have been produced in the chemical industry, different materials have been put together and have led to the production of new samples, one of the important additives of polymer compounds is masterbatch, which leads to the production of new products, masterbatch has a colored and white masterbatch type, if we add masterbatch to polymers, new products are produced
In fact, masterbatch changes the properties of polymers, masterbatch consists of chemicals, additives, polymer base and active compatibilizer compounds. These parts make a lot of changes in the production of color, the cost price of the final product and the improvement of properties. This mixture is in the form of granules. Due to the great variety of colors in masterbatch, various colored samples are produced in the industry.
A masterbatch is an additive that is added to the base polymer to add properties to it, but the compound enters the machine directly to produce the final product; now, the masterbatch may be added to the compound used in the production process, or it may not be necessary to add a masterbatch.
Masterbatch usually has a shelf life of between 12 and 24 months when stored in proper conditions away from moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures.
Yes, different masterbatches can be combined to achieve the desired properties. However, compatibility testing must be performed to ensure that the masterbatches can be combined without any adverse effects on performance or appearance.
Masterbatch can be added during various stages of the manufacturing process, depending on specific needs. It can be incorporated into the raw materials during compounding, added during the extrusion or molding process, or mixed with polymer pellets before processing.
While masterbatch is generally safe to use, it is essential to follow the safety instructions provided by the supplier. Avoid direct skin contact with the thickened masterbatch, wear appropriate protective equipment, and ensure adequate ventilation in the processing area.
Yes, masterbatches can be formulated to be compatible with a wide range of polymers, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), etc. It is very important to choose the right masterbatch formula for the specific polymer being used.
It is better to have a complete understanding of the raw materials when using a product. When choosing an important ingredient, you should pay attention to certain standards.
- Polymer compounds must be compatible with the materials and product to be produced.
- The color and properties of the materials must be stable over the various times they are used.
- The additive must have a uniform concentration and appropriate percentage.
- The colors must be specific.
- There should be no problems in producing the final product.
- The product must use a small amount of raw materials.
- It must have appropriate technical specifications (moisture content, melting point and melting temperature of the products).
The three main parts of the masterbatch composition are:
Base polymer
A low molecular weight polymer material is used in the preparation of this product. The polymers used as a base for the production of this compound include ethylene vinyl acetate, types of polyethylene, some alkyd polymers, and polypropylene.
Additive
In order to change the properties of some polymers, compounds that have these properties must be used in the masterbatch. Among the additives that are added, pigments and fillers can be mentioned. The type and strength of the additives have an effect on the addition of the additive. Because in the polymer industry, we expect various applications from the masterbatch.
Adaptor
The compatibility of this compound with polymers is adjusted by adding substances such as maleic anhydride and polypropylene. In order to produce a quality final product, in addition to using quality materials, appropriate equipment and devices must be used.