Polymer Enhancement Flashcards
Lubricants
Reduce viscosity of molten polymer - less ‘sticky’ so more intricate shapes can be formed
Reduce moulding temperature saving energy
E.g. Wax, calcium stearate
Thermal antioxidants
Prevent polymer oxidising or discolouring due to excessive heat processing
Pigments
Tiny particles mixed into molten polymers to give colour
Anti statics
Reduce likelihood of polymer building up a static
Flame retardants
Reduce likelihood of combustion or spreading of fire
Plasticisers
Allow polymers to be less hard and brittle at normal temperature use
e.g. Added to LDPE food wrap - so it can be stretched over food easily
Allow polymers to be easily formed at higher temperatures
Fillers
Provide bulk to the product to reduce the polymer requirement - e.g. Sawdust and wood flour
Mineral fillers help increase thermal conductivity- reducing mould cycle times
E.g. Chalk, clay and calcium
Biodegradable plasticisers
Make the polymer more flexible, softer and easier to break down - faster degradation times
Bio batch additives
Help reduce degradation times
E.g. Oxy-degradable additives, photodegradable additives and hydro-degradable additives
Antioxidants
Help reduce polymer deterioration due to oxygen exposure
Prevent increased brittleness, surface cracks and discolouration
Used in polymer garden furniture
UV light stabilisers
Prevent polymer chain breakdown via exposure to sunlight
UV attack causes colour loss and brittleness
Used in:
Outdoor toys
Garden furniture
Sports stadium seats
Synthetic grass
Polymer additives
Lubricants
Thermal antioxidants
Pigments
Anti statics
Flame retardants
Plasticisers
Fillers
Biodegradable plasticisers
Bio-batch additives
Antioxidants
UV light stabilisers
