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Ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight functional siloxane additives in polymers. Effects on processing and properties
Author(s) -
Ryan Kevin J.,
Lupton Kevin E.,
Pape Peter G.,
John Vivian B.
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
journal of vinyl and additive technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.295
H-Index - 35
eISSN - 1548-0585
pISSN - 1083-5601
DOI - 10.1002/vnl.10217
Subject(s) - siloxane , masterbatch , materials science , silicone , compounding , polymer , molding (decorative) , pellets , extrusion , composite material , polymer chemistry , chemical engineering , polymer science , nanocomposite , engineering
Abstract Two new types of solid siloxane additives for plastics are described which give improved benefits compared to previous silicone additives. Ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight (UHMW) siloxanes are used in the new additives; traditional silicone plastic additives have used much lower molecular‐weight silicones. The siloxane is converted into solid forms, either masterbatch pellets or powders, that are easy to feed, or mix, into plastics during compounding, extrusion, or injection molding. Ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight siloxanes can be compounded into masterbatch pellets at higher siloxane concentrations than previously possible, e. g., up to 50%. They impart improved processing and release, lower coefficient of friction, and broader performance latitude compared to conventional lower‐molecular‐weight silicones. These benefits can be delivered at reduced siloxane levels with increased concentration at the surface interface with a new functionalized UHMW siloxane which provides unique surface segregation characteristics. Ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight siloxanes have been formulated into powders that can also act as processing aids and mechanical property modifiers for highly filled polymers such as fire‐retardant systems. This paper uses polyolefins as a model. However, many of the effects shown in polyolefins have also been seen in other resin systems.