Masterbatches
Masterbatches are used in polypropylene (PP) to give it color and/or improve its properties, such as UV resistance, antimicrobial properties, or antistatic properties. Masterbatches are a concentrate of additives or pigments added to the base polymer (in this case, PP) during the manufacturing process of a plastic product. They are presented in granule form, which facilitates dispersion and handling, and allows for more precise and efficient mixing compared to adding pure additives directly.
Characteristics
Resistance to light and heat
Masterbatches with antioxidants and UV stabilizers protect PP from degradation due to heat and sunlight, as used in automotive parts and outdoor products (furniture, flower pots).
Antimicrobial properties
With silver nanoparticle additives, they can create hygienic products for the medical or food industries, preventing bacterial growth.
Fireproof
They provide fire resistance, crucial in battery casings and electronic components.
Coloring
Color masterbatches provide uniformity and gloss to PP products such as food packaging and furniture.
Facilitation of Processing
Processing aid masterbatches reduce the friction and viscosity of PP, improving its fluidity and facilitating processes such as extrusion and injection molding.
Cost Reduction
By concentrating additives and pigments, manufacturers reduce the amount of raw materials needed and optimize processes, increasing productivity and reducing downtime.
Common Uses
Its applications are very diverse, covering sectors such as packaging (films and boxes), automotive (boards), and the manufacturing of cables, profiles, and pipes.
