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| Non-Halogen FR Masterbatches from Clariant Employ Melt-Processable Ingredients that Preserve Colorability |
| Tuesday, 09 February 2010 10:37 | |
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Two new non-halogen flame retardant (FR) masterbatches from Clariant Masterbatches are fully melt processable, so they eliminate the need to compromise on color, physical properties or cost when using these environmentally friendly plastic additives. They were developed specifically to help products made of polyester, polypropylene (PP) and thermoplastic urethane (TPU) meet critical flammability standards for applications in extruded and injection-molded articles. Like all non-halogen flame retardants, the new Clariant Masterbatches products are free of bromine, chlorine and heavy metals, which have raised health and environmental concerns worldwide. However, unlike many other non-halogen flame retardants, which are based on organo-metallic chemistry, the Clariant additives do not contain solid particles that can make coloring difficult or expensive, and that can diminish important physical properties.The new FR masterbatches, both marketed under the CESA®-flam brand, are the first formulations in two product platforms developed specifically for challenging applications where non-halogen materials have had difficulty competing. CESA-f/flam 5525NH is a halogen-free flame-retardant masterbatch for polyesters. It was designed to pass tests such as NFPA 701, MVSS 302 and UL 94 V-0. Applications include mono-filaments, films and injection-molded articles. This masterbatch is fully melt-processable and highly efficient. Typical dosage of the masterbatch is in the 6 to 8% range. At these addition rates, it contributes only a slight yellow-gray coloration, so that bright colors can be achieved in the end product, more easily than with a more conventional non-halogen flame retardant. CESA-flam CT-1629NH is aimed at PP and TPU for applications in injection-molding, extrusion and fibers, such as those used in office furniture. This masterbatch is specifically designed to pass California TB 133 for public seating and motor vehicle standard MVSS 302. Typical addition rates are in the 6 to 8% range. The masterbatch does not affect the color of the base resin in the part so, in most cases, coloring costs do not change. It is also inherently UV stable, so no additional UV additives are needed. "The industry has been seeking effective halogen-free solutions for years," explains Kirk Jacobs, Head of Additive Masterbatches, North America, "but only recently have products really become viable. Early approaches, based on organo-metallic chemistry, required dosing as high as 40% in order to get an acceptable FR effect. At these rates, the end products either couldn't be colored effectively or color spaces had to be ignored because high coloring costs were prohibitive. In addition, the high solids content resulted in poor physical and mechanical performance. This new generation of Clariant non-halogen masterbatches uses proprietary chemistry that does not require as much flame retardant to get the job done so additive costs are reduced and parts can be colored more easily. In addition, because these flame retardants are totally melt-processable, physical properties of the polymer are retained." Processors who use flame retardants in masterbatch form enjoy the flexibility of being able to make dosing and processing adjustments easily to meet changing part requirements. Clariant Masterbatches products are marketed under the following global brand names: REMAFIN® olefinic masterbatches and compounds; RENOL® masterbatches and compounds based on engineering resins, styrenics and PVC; CESA® additive masterbatches; HYDROCEROL® chemical foaming and nucleating agents; OMNICOLOR® universal color masterbatches. These brand names are all registered trademarks of Clariant. About Clariant Clariant is a global leader in the field of specialty chemicals. Strong business relationships, commitment to outstanding service and wide-ranging application know-how make Clariant a preferred partner for its customers. Clariant, which is represented on five continents with over 100 group companies, employs about 18,000 people. Headquartered in Muttenz near Basel, Switzerland, it generated sales of CHF 8.1 billion in 2008. Masterbatches is one of ten Business Units of Clariant. Clariant is committed to sustainable growth springing from its own innovative strength. Clariant's innovative products play a key role in its customers' manufacturing and treatment processes or else add value to their end products. The Company's success is based on the know-how of its people and their ability to identify new customer needs at an early stage and to work together with customers to develop innovative, efficient solutions.
Source : http://www.specialchem4polymers.com/resources/latest/displaynews.aspx?id=4299 |
