Uses Of Masterbatch In Plastics Industry

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Uses Of Masterbatch In Plastics Industry

Uses Of Masterbatch In Plastics Industry

Masterbatches are a concentrated mixture of additives and pigments suspended in a carrier resin mainly used in the plastic industry to improve its mechanical properties and boost its aesthetic appeal by imparting specific colours to it. These properties include colourants, UV stabilisers, flame resistance, antioxidants, antibacterial and more. The masterbatch is added to the base polymer during production to impart the desired property in the final product. Its ease of implementation into any product has made it a favorite among users across industries. Listed below are some of its main applications in the plastic industry:

  • Colouration: The primary use of masterbatch is to impart a specific colour to the final plastic product. It contains concentrated pigments that are dispersed throughout the polymer matrix, enabling even dispersion of the desired colour across the base polymer. This makes the overall process of colouring any product simple, effective, and economical.
  • UV Stabiliser: For products that are exposed to direct sunlight and elements of nature, this specific feature minimises the damaging effect of extreme heat, cold, or moisture. Discolouration, degradation, and brittleness are common outcomes of continued exposure, reducing the lifespan and usability of the device.
  • Antioxidant: This property helps prevent rust build-up on the surface of the device due to continuous exposure to moisture or damp conditions. The build-up of oxidising components is common under such conditions which can negatively impact the functionality of the device.
  • Flame Resistance: Flame retardant masterbatches are used in settings where fire hazard is a concern, such as closed spaces, buildings, and industrial settings. Incorporating this masterbatch will help in minimising the effect of fire, allowing the fire control team to take stock of the situation more effectively in case of any contingency.
  • Antimicrobial: This masterbatch can be used to minimise the growth of microorganisms on plastic surfaces. It finds application in pharmaceutical packaging, food packaging, and agricultural activities where containing microbial growth is a must.
  • Product Strengthening: There are specific masterbatch types used to improve the strength and mechanical properties of the final product. They can increase strength, improve impact resistance, or enhance moldability based on the user's needs.

Based on their application, there are three main types of masterbatches:

  • Colour Masterbatch:As the name indicates, the colour masterbatch is mainly used to add vibrant colours to the final product consistently. It can also impart special effects such as pearlescent, transparency, metallic, and fluorescent effects, etc.
  • Additive Masterbatch: The main purpose of this masterbatch is to enhance the physical properties of the plastic product, such as strength, mouldability, and impact resistance to name a few.
  • Filler Masterbatch: This masterbatch is used to replace the core component to such an extent that the overall product retains its overall integrity while minimising the cost of production for the manufacturer. It usually contains calcium carbonate or talc.

Related Links: Colour Masterbatch Manufacturers

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