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Product Portfolio2013

2

Product Portfolio

Contents

Welcome to the new Plastribution Product Portfolio 03

Products by supplier 04

Products by material 06

Products by brand 08

Solving the drop-test dilemma 10

That’s cool 11

Enabling a multitude of benefits for film converters 12

New Ducor polypropylene meets demand for transparency 13

Vistamaxx propylene-based elastomers have it covered 14

New enhanced finish electroplating grade of ABS from Chi Mei 16

Exceeding the demands of film packaging 18

High gloss, high impact polystyrene from Total Petrochemicals 20

Expansion at Granic 21

Conductive plastics 22

Plastribution to offer Mitsubishi’s Xantar portfolio to the automotive industry 24

Lumicene® Random Copolymers a potential for productivity and environmental gains 26

Inside knowledge : Sukima Polymer Compounds 28

Next generation PEEK polymer from Evonik 29

A new line-up for PLEXIGLASS® moulding compounds 30

More efficient LEDs 32

More efficient processing and better quality thermoformed packaging 34

Step-out performance for highly demanding applications 36

Nylon replaces metal in cars 38

New enhanced finish electroplating grade of ABS from Chi Mei 40

New Granic® grade for blow moulding and film applications 41

We say no to surcharges! 42

Plastribution technical capabilities 44

Mike BoswellManaging DirectorPlastribution Limited

PO Box 77435 Ashby ParkCEVA HouseAshby-de-la-ZouchLeicestershireLE65 1XY

Tel: +44 (0) 1530 560560Fax: +44 (0) 1530 560303Email: [email protected]

www.plastribution.co.uk

3

Product Portfolio

These represent just a small sample of the range of materials that we can supply and the myriad of applications in which they can be deployed, so if you would like to learn more about how we can support you with your particular requirements, please contact any member of our team who will be pleased to provide assistance.

In addition to this printed version of our product range, you can also access a wealth of information on the products and services we supply via both our website (www.plastribution.co.uk) or by means of our recently launched App that runs on iPhone, iPad and Android devices. There will also be updates to our portfolio and further examples of applications included in our bi-annual publication Know-how magazine. We will also continue to publish Price Know-how, which provides a monthly insight into polymer pricing, and also add to the Industry Know-how a series of articles that provide background information on the plastics industry. You can subscribe to any of these publications via our website, App or by simply asking your Plastribution representative.

It remains our objective to become your preferred supplier of plastic raw materials. To achieve this aim we will continue to develop a team with the necessary expertise, which is empowered to innovate solutions to meet your requirements and we will maintain robust processes to make sure that we remain a reliable partner to your business. Please do not hesitate in challenging our team to meet your future thermoplastic raw material requirements.

In the year ahead we not only aim to meet your expectations in terms of:

1. Availability

2. Price

3. OTIF (On Time In Full)

4. Performance (Processing and Application)

5. Relationship

But also to provide you with the additional services that enable you to achieve business success. In terms of technical support we have included in this brochure an infographic outlining the range of activities we can supply to support the design, selection and processing of materials. We have also included a copy of our

‘No Surcharges’ infographic which

clearly illustrates the services included

in the price you pay.

Whilst I am sure that 2013 will

again present many technical and

commercial challenges, I hope that

your business flourishes and prospers

in the coming 12 months, and I hope

that the team here at Plastribution

can play some part in your success.

Mike Boswell

Welcome to the 2013 Plastribution Product Portfolio

For this new edition of our 2013 product portfolio we are including a range of feature articles from previous editions of our Know-how magazine, which showcase applications for some of the more recent additions to our extensive product range.


0845 34 54 560

Issue 03 October 2012

the magazine

In this issue

The Olympic torch – Momentum 13

Joining the App revolution 14

Recycle with industry know-how 16

Nylon replaces metal in cars 32

More efficient LEDsDon’t be left in the dark, turn to page 24 and find out more.

PLA0047_Issue 3 know-how.indd 1 13/12/2012 15:01

4

Product Portfolio

Products by Supplier

Supplier Brand Name Material

API

Megol TPE

Apigo TPE

Tivilon TPE

Raplan TPE

Apilon 52 TPE

Apinat TPE

Aquapurge Barrel Blitz Universal Purging Agent

Aurora Manufacturing

Aurapene PP Recycled

Cardia BioplasticsCardia Compostable Biodegradable

Cardia Biohybrid Biohybrid

Carmel Olefins

Ipethene LDPE

Capilene PPCP

Capilene PPHP

Capilene PPRCP

Chi Mei Corporation

Polylac ABS

Kibilac ASA

Kibiton BDS

Wonderloy PC/ABS

Wonderlite Polycarbonate

Kibisan SAN

ColourTone

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – Nylon

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – PBT

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – Polycarbonate

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – POM

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – PVC

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – Universal

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers

Colourtone Masterbatch Masterbatch Anti-static

Deltech Styrilic SMMA

Ducor Petrochemicals

Ducor PPCP

Ducor PPHP

Enzymoplast Enzo Biodegradable

Evonik Industries

Cyrolite Cyro

Clear Polymer Cyro XT

Plexiglas PMMA

ExxonMobil

Escor EAA

Escorene EVA

Exxelor Functional Polymers

ExxonMobil HD HDPE

DELTECHCORPORATION

5

Product Portfolio


ExxonMobil

ExxonMobil LD LDPE

Exact LLD Plastomer

ExxonMobil LLD LLDPE

Exceed mPE

Enable mPE

Vistamaxx PP Plastomer

ExxonMobil PP PPCP

ExxonMobil PP PPHP

Gestora Catalana de Residuos

Granic Calcium Carbonate Compounds

Idemitsu Petrochemicals

Tarflon Polycarbonate

Xarec SPS

Ineos Innovex LLDPE

Kafrit/Constab

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch – Flame Retardant

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch – Process Aids

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch – Slip Agent

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch Anti-block

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch Colour Universal

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Masterbatch Slip/Anti-block

Mitsubishi Chemical

Modic Functional Polymers

Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics

Iupilon Polycarbonate

Iupital POM (Acetal Copolymer)

Polyram

BondyRam Functional Polymers

Plustek PA12

Plustek PA6

Plustek PA6.6

Polytron Long Glass Fibre Compounds

Ramster PBT

Ramofin PP Compounds

Premix

Pre-Elec Conductive

Pre-Elec ESD Static Dissipative Compounds

PrethermThermally Conductive Compounds

Preseal TPE TPE – Highly Conductive

Radici Group Plastics

Radilon S PA6

Heramid I/B PA6 Industrial (Germany)


Radici Group Plastics

Heramid S PA6 Industrial (Italy)

Radilon B PA6 Prime (Germany)

Radilon S PA6 Prime (Italy)

Radiflam S PA6 Prime FR (Italy)

Radilon D PA6.10

Heramid I/A PA6.6 (Industrial) Germany

Radiflam A PA6.6 FR (Italy)

Heramid A PA6.6 Industrial (Italy)

Radilon A PA6.6 Prime (Germany)

Radilon A PA6.6 Prime (Italy)

Raditer PBT

Radiflam B PBT

Raditer E PETG

Heraflex TPEE/TPE/TPV

Romira Engineering Polymers

Rotec ASA

Romiloy PA/ABS

Romiloy PC/ABS

Romiloy PC/ASA

Sumika Polymer Compounds

Thermofil PP Compounds

Sumitomo Chemical Europe

Sumitomo LLDPE

Sumitomo PPCP

Tosoh Susteel PPS

Total Petrochemicals

Total EVA EVA

Total GPPS GPPS

Total HD HDPE

Total HIPS HIPS

Total HIPS Alloys HIPS Alloys

Total HIPS FR HIPS FR

Total LD LDPE

Total LLD LLDPE

Total MD MDPE

Lumicene mPPRCP

Total PP PPCP

Total PP PPHP

Total PP PPRCP

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Product Portfolio

Products by Material

Material Supplier Brand Name

ABS Chi Mei Corporation Polylac

ASA Chi Mei Corporation Kibilac

ASA Romira Rotec

BDS Chi Mei Kibiton

Biodegradable Enzymoplast Enzo

Biodegradable Cardia Bioplastics Cardia Compostable

Biohybrid Cardia Bioplastics Cardia Biohybrid

Calcium Carbonate Compounds

Gestora Catalana de Residuos

Granic

Conductive Premix Pre-Elec

Cyro Evonik Industries Cyrolite

Cyro XT Evonik Industries Clear Polymer

EAA ExxonMobil Escor

EVA ExxonMobil Escorene

EVA Total Petrochemicals Total EVA

Functional Polymers ExxonMobil Exxelor

Functional Polymers Mitsubishi Chemical Modic

Functional Polymers Polyram BondyRam

GPPS Total Petrochemicals Total GPPS

HDPE ExxonMobil ExxonMobil HD

HDPE Total Petrochemicals Total HD

HIPS Total Petrochemicals Total HIPS

HIPS Alloys Total Petrochemicals Total HIPS Alloys

HIPS FR Total Petrochemicals Total HIPS FR

LDPE Carmel Olefins Ipethene

LDPE ExxonMobil ExxonMobil LD

LDPE Total Petrochemicals Total LD

LLD Plastomer ExxonMobil Exact

LLDPE ExxonMobil ExxonMobil LLD

LLDPE Ineos Innovex

LLDPESumitomo Chemical Europe

Sumitomo

LLDPE Total Petrochemicals Total LLD

Long Glass Fibre Compounds

Polyram Polytron

Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

Kafrit/Constab Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Flame Retardant


Masterbatch – Nylon ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – PBT ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Polycarbonate


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Product Portfolio


Masterbatch – POM ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Process Aids Kafrit/Constab Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch

Masterbatch – PVC ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Slip Agent Kafrit/Constab Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch

Masterbatch – Universal ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers


Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers


Masterbatch Anti-block Kafrit/Constab Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch

Masterbatch Anti-static ColourTone Colourtone Masterbatch

Masterbatch Colour Universal


Masterbatch Slip/Anti-block Kafrit/Constab Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch

MDPE Total Petrochemicals Total MD

mPE ExxonMobil Exceed

mPE ExxonMobil Enable

mPPRCP Total Petrochemicals Lumicene

PA/ABSRomira Engineering Polymers

Romiloy

PA12 Polyram Plustek

PA6 Radici Group Plastics Radilon S

PA6 Industrial (Germany) Radici Group Plastics Heramid I/B

PA6 Industrial (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Heramid S

PA6 Polyram Plustek

PA6 Prime (Germany) Radici Group Plastics Radilon B

PA6 Prime (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Radilon S

PA6 Prime FR (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Radiflam S

PA6.10 Radici Group Plastics Radilon D

PA6.6 Polyram Plustek

PA6.6 (Industrial) Germany Radici Group Plastics Heramid I/A

PA6.6 FR (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Radiflam A

PA6.6 Industrial (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Heramid A

PA6.6 Prime (Germany) Radici Group Plastics Radilon A

PA6.6 Prime (Italy) Radici Group Plastics Radilon A

PBT Polyram Ramster

PBT Radici Group Plastics Raditer

PBT Radici Group Plastics Radiflam B

PC/ABS Chi Mei Corporation Wonderloy

PC/ABSRomira Engineering Polymers

Romiloy

PC/ASARomira Engineering Polymers

Romiloy

PETG Radici Group Plastics Raditer E


PMMA Evonik Industries Plexiglas

Polycarbonate Chi Mei Corporation Wonderlite

Polycarbonate Idemitsu Petrochemicals Tarflon

PolycarbonateMitsubishi Engineering Plastics

Iupilon

POM (Acetal Copolymer)Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics

Iupital

PP Compounds Polyram Ramofin

PP CompoundsSumika Polymer Compounds

Thermofil

PP Plastomer ExxonMobil Vistamaxx

PP Recycled Aurora Manufacturing Aurapene

PPCP Carmel Olefins Capilene

PPCP Ducor Petrochemicals Ducor

PPCP ExxonMobil ExxonMobil PP

PPCPSumitomo Chemical Europe

Sumitomo

PPCP Total Petrochemicals Total PP

PPHP Carmel Olefins Capilene

PPHP Ducor Petrochemicals Ducor

PPHP ExxonMobil ExxonMobil PP

PPHP Total Petrochemicals Total PP

PPRCP Carmel Olefins Capilene

PPRCP Total Petrochemicals Total PP

PPS Tosoh Susteel

Purging Agent Aquapurge Barrel Blitz Universal

SAN Chi Mei Corporation Kibisan

SMMA Deltech Styrilic

SPS Idemitsu Petrochemicals Xarec

Static Dissipative Compounds

Premix Pre-Elec ESD

Thermally Conductive Compounds

Premix Pretherm

TPE API Megol

TPE API Apigo

TPE API Tivilon

TPE API Raplan

TPE API Apilon 52

TPE API Apinat

TPE – Highly Conductive Premix Preseal TPE

TPEE/TPE/TPV Radici Group Plastics Heraflex

8

Product Portfolio

Products by Brand

The Plastribution team is always available to provide advice on all aspects of grade selection including design, processing and properties. So please do not hesitate in contacting us to discuss your specific requirements.

Please remember that, despite our best efforts to do so, it is almost impossible to cover every request for information on the website or through this portfolio, particularly as new developments are happening all the time.

If you should be unable to find what you require, just get in touch on the phone, email or through the website and, if we really can’t help, we will do our utmost to point you in the right direction.

Plastribution Limited PO Box 7743, CEVA House, 5 Ashby Park, Ashby-de-la-Zouch Leicestershire LE65 1XY

Tel: +44 (0) 1530 560560 Fax: +44 (0) 1530 560303

Email: [email protected] www.plastribution.co.uk

Brand Name Supplier Material

Apigo API TPE

Apilon 52 API TPE

Apinat API TPE

Aurapene Aurora Manufacturing PP Recycled

Barrel Blitz Universal Aquapurge Purging Agent

BondyRam Polyram Functional Polymers

Capilene Carmel Olefins PPCP

Capilene Carmel Olefins PPHP

Capilene Carmel Olefins PPRCP

Cardia Biohybrid Cardia Bioplastics Biohybrid

Cardia Compostable Cardia Bioplastics Biodegradable

Clear Polymer Evonik Industries Cyro XT

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – Nylon

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – PBT

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – Polycarbonate

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – POM

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – PVC

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – Universal

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers

Colourtone Masterbatch ColourTone Masterbatch Anti-static

Cyrolite Evonik Industries Cyro

Ducor Ducor Petrochemicals PPCP

Ducor Ducor Petrochemicals PPHP

Enable ExxonMobil mPE

Enzo Enzymoplast Biodegradable

Escor ExxonMobil EAA

Escorene ExxonMobil EVA

Exact ExxonMobil LLD Plastomer

Exceed ExxonMobil mPE

Exxelor ExxonMobil Functional Polymers

ExxonMobil HD ExxonMobil HDPE

ExxonMobil LD ExxonMobil LDPE

ExxonMobil LLD ExxonMobil LLDPE

ExxonMobil PP ExxonMobil PPCP

ExxonMobil PP ExxonMobil PPHP

Granic Gestora Catalana de Residuos

Calcium Carbonate Compounds

Heraflex Radici Group Plastics TPEE/TPE/TPV

Heramid A Radici Group Plastics PA6.6 Industrial (Italy)

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Product Portfolio


Heramid I/A Radici Group Plastics PA6.6 (Industrial) Germany

Heramid I/B Radici Group Plastics PA6 Industrial (Germany)

Heramid S Radici Group Plastics PA6 Industrial (Italy)

Innovex Ineos LLDPE

Ipethene Carmel Olefins LDPE

Iupilon Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics

Polycarbonate

Iupital Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics

POM (Acetal Copolymer)

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch – Blowing Agents

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch – Flame Retardant

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch – Process Aids

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch – Slip Agent

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch – UV Stabilisers

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Anti-block

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Colour Universal

Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Kafrit/Constab Masterbatch Slip/Anti-block

Kibilac Chi Mei Corporation ASA

Kibisan Chi Mei Corporation SAN

Kibiton Chi Mei Corporation BDS

Lumicene Total Petrochemicals mPPRCP

Megol API TPE

Modic Mitsubishi Chemical Functional Polymers

Plexiglas Evonik Industries PMMA

Plustek Polyram PA12

Plustek Polyram PA6

Plustek Polyram PA6.6

Polylac Chi Mei Corporation ABS

Polytron Polyram Long Glass Fibre Compounds

Pre-Elec Premix Conductive

Pre-Elec ESD Premix Static Dissipative Compounds

Preseal TPE Premix TPE – Highly Conductive

Pretherm Premix Thermally Conductive Compounds

Radiflam A Radici Group Plastics PA6.6 FR (Italy)

Radiflam B Radici Group Plastics PBT

Radiflam S Radici Group Plastics PA6 Prime FR (Italy)

Radilon A Radici Group Plastics PA6.6 Prime (Germany)

Radilon A Radici Group Plastics PA6.6 Prime (Italy)


Radilon B Radici Group Plastics PA6 Prime (Germany)

Radilon D Radici Group Plastics PA6.10

Radilon S Radici Group Plastics PA6

Radilon S Radici Group Plastics PA6 Prime (Italy)

Raditer Radici Group Plastics PBT

Raditer E Radici Group Plastics PETG

Ramofin Polyram PP Compounds

Ramster Polyram PBT

Raplan API TPE

Romiloy Romira Engineering Polymers

PA/ABS


PC/ABS


PC/ASA

Rotec Romira Engineering Polymers

ASA

Styrilic Deltech SMMA

Sumitomo Sumitomo Chemical Europe

LLDPE

Sumitomo Sumitomo Chemical Europe

PPCP

Susteel Tosoh PPS

Tarflon Idemitsu Petrochemicals Polycarbonate

Thermofil Sumika Polymer Compounds

PP Compounds

Tivilon API TPE

Total EVA Total Petrochemicals EVA

Total GPPS Total Petrochemicals GPPS

Total HD Total Petrochemicals HDPE

Total HIPS Total Petrochemicals HIPS

Total HIPS Alloys Total Petrochemicals HIPS Alloys

Total HIPS FR Total Petrochemicals HIPS FR

Total LD Total Petrochemicals LDPE

Total LLD Total Petrochemicals LLDPE

Total MD Total Petrochemicals MDPE

Total PP Total Petrochemicals PPCP

Total PP Total Petrochemicals PPHP

Total PP Total Petrochemicals PPRCP

Vistamaxx ExxonMobil PP Plastomer

Wonderlite Chi Mei Corporation Polycarbonate

Wonderloy Chi Mei Corporation PC/ABS

Xarec Idemitsu Petrochemicals SPS

Product Portfolio

Issue 01 – September 2011

30

The “Pack Away Garage” is a multi-

featured children’s toy designed

and developed by one of Europe’s

leading suppliers, Halsall Toys Europe

Ltd. (HTI). The garage is over three

levels with a helipad, gas station,

car wash, ramps and car lift, as well

as die-cast cars. Moulded from an

impact copolymer polypropylene

(ICP), the entire toy, which folds up

into a compact tyre-shaped carrying

case, weighs 3kgs and measures

approximately 42cm x 38cm x 19cm.

As with all toys for the mass market,

the garage was required to meet the

standards and safety requirements

of key markets, such as ASTM F963

(United States) and EN71 (European

Union). Under ASTM F963, the folded

case was dropped five times from

six different directions at a height of

just over 90 cm, with the ICP failing

on the surface of the tyre case

and in the internal support ribs. It

became clear that the material

lacked the flexibility and strength

to resist the high external impact.

The commercial launch of “Pack

Away Garage” in time for the run up

to Christmas was now in danger.

HTI and the moulder Ever Force

Toys and Electronics (Dongguan)

Limited of Guangdong, China, had

three options: adjust the production

process, which was considered a

priority, improve the ICP and, as

a last resort, modify the moulds.

After numerous adjustments to

the production process proved

unsuccessful, they approached local

polymer distributor, Kin Sang Chemical

Ltd. of Shenzhen, China, and

polymer manufacturer, ExxonMobil

Chemical for an assessment

of the material being used.

They proposed altering the formula

of the impact copolymer by adding

ExxonMobil Chemical’s Vistamaxx

propylene-based elastomer.

Vistamaxx can affect flexibility within

a part, increasing impact strength

down to -20°C while improving

adhesion. In particular, dry blending

10 to 30% Vistamaxx with PP at

the injection moulding machine

provides improved impact strength,

minimising breakage and eliminating

the need for mould modification

or an increase in part thickness.

Ever Force tested different

concentrations of Vistamaxx

propylene-based elastomer within the

impact copolymer before settling on

a 15% Vistamaxx loading, with which

it comfortably passed the drop-test.

“Thankfully we didn’t need to modify

the design of the tool as it would

have been very costly, and there

would have been delays of about

four months in commercialising the

toy,” remarks Jonathan Stoneley,

Halsall’s buying controller. “This

innovative solution meant we

did not miss the Christmas sales

period.” Launched in the summer

of 2009, the Pack Away Garage

sold 80,000 units in Europe during

the run up to Christmas that year,

making it Halsall’s third-best seller.

Further information on Vistamaxx™

propylene-based elastomer

can be found at:

www.exxonmobilchemical.com

Solving the drop-test dilemma

Vistamaxx™ propylene-based elastomer helps get unique toys to pass key drop-test and onto store shelves in time for Christmas.

Issue 1_Plastribution.indd 30 13/12/2012 09:46

10

11

Product Portfolio


31

That’s cool!

Recycled polystyrene from refrigerators available from Plastribution

A recycled grade of polystyrene (rPS

65W) from Total Petrochemicals is

now available to the UK processing

industry through Plastribution. The

general purpose material, suitable

for both injection moulding and

extrusion, is produced from post-

consumer refrigerator doors and liners.

rPS 65W offers comparable properties

to virgin polystyrene with a melt index

of 6g/10 minutes, a flexural modulus of

1750MPa, an Izod impact strength of 6

kJ/m2 at 23°C and a VICAT softening

temperature of 86°C. The pellet-

shaped material is manufactured to

match a consistent off-white colour

and has a density of approximately

1.05 g/m3. Typical applications for

the recycled grade of polystyrene

include office equipment, household

items and other injection-moulded

items. The material is not suitable for

food contact and toy applications.

For over 25 years, high impact

polystyrene (HIPS) has been the

material of choice for refrigerator

liners and doors due to its lightweight

insulating and protective properties.

Unfortunately, once the

refrigerator has reached its end-

of-life, the polystyrene becomes

a waste material that companies

must pay to dispose of.

Total has sought to address this

problem by developing the post-

consumer, recycled grade of

polystyrene sourced from refrigerators.

“We believe plastics can be recycled

several times and still provide value as

a source of energy at the end of their

lifecycle. To maximise this potential,

Total is developing new solutions for

recycling plastics, including offering

new grades containing recycled

polymers. We also support the

efforts of professional associations

such as Plastics Europe to improve

the end-of-life management of

plastics,” says a spokesperson

for Total Petrochemicals.

The addition of a recycled grade

of Polystyrene, backed by the

brand of a major petrochemical

producer is another important

addition to Plastribution’s portfolio

of products with green credentials.

‘Through offering a broad range

of materials we aim to provide

processors with the correct solution

to meet the increasing need of

OEMs and retailers to provide

products to meet consumers

increasing expectations for more

environmentally friendly products’.

For more information, please visit

www.totalpetrochemicals.com


12

Product Portfolio


33

Enable™ metallocene polyethylene

(mPE) from ExxonMobil Chemical

offers an unprecedented

combination of film processing and

HAO performance benefits in a

single, unique resin. Available in the

UK through Plastribution, it allows

converters to further enhance

their business through more stable

operations, improved film line output,

film down-gauging, and simpler

resin sourcing.

Operational stability Enable mPE has a broad operating

window – on both LLDPE and LDPE

equipment – that can withstand

fluctuations in manufacturing

conditions. The ability of Enable

mPE to extrude at lower melting

temperatures delivers extrusion

energy savings, promotes greater

bubble stability, and leads to stable,

worry-free operations.

Extended output Enable mPE facilitates faster

processing which increases film line

capacity. When replacing LLDPE-rich

blends it’s possible to increase output

by up to 20% with no additional

capital cost, resulting in increased

revenue and the postponement

of future equipment investments.

In some cases, polymer processing

aids can be eliminated, resulting in

additional savings.

Versatility with higher alpha olefin (HAO) performance Enable mPE technology meets the

performance needs of several film

applications. While often surpassing

the mechanical performance

requirements of LLDPE-rich structures,

Enable mPE can significantly improve

the toughness of LDPE-rich structures

making down-gauging by more

than 20 percent a possibility. Enable

mPE can open up potential new

applications on LDPE equipment.

Resin sourcing simplicity Enable mPE is a single, unique resin

designed to replace LLDPE/LDPE

blends – simplifying sourcing and

operations. Lowering inventory costs

by reducing the number of resins that

need to be sourced, it eliminates

blending complexity and costly errors.

While Enable mPE technology is ideal

for film converters with LLDPE and

LDPE mono-layer blown film lines, it

also brings value to multilayer blown

film lines, especially large lay-flat

films requiring high melt strength,

and cast film lines. Its broad range

of benefits makes Enable mPE

suitable for an array of flexible film

applications including collation shrink,

pallet shrink, cast stretch hand wrap,

lamination film, heavy duty bags

and agricultural greenhouse films.

Further information on Enable™

metallocene polyethylene

(mPE) can be found at:


Enabling a multitude of benefits for film converters

Available in the UK through Plastribution, it allows converters to further enhance their business through more stable operations, improved film line output, film down-gauging, and simpler resin sourcing.


13

Product Portfolio

Issue 02 – March 2012

17

Ducor Petrochemicals has introduced a new grade of polypropylene homopolymer for extrusion and thermoforming applications that require high transparency and improved stiffness.

The new grade, Ducor DX11101, is

principally envisaged as a material

for thermoformed food packaging

applications and is defined by its

very good optical and mechanical

properties as well as its excellent

processability. It is also in compliance

with most regulations regarding food

contact applications (EU, FDA, etc.).

Ducor Petrochemicals is a joint

venture between Belgium’s Domo

Group and Israel’s Carmel Olefins

and has its production located in the

area of Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Already well known for their textile

and injection moulding grades, the

joint venture partners are seeking

to diversify the markets available to

their Ducor products by developing

new grades such as Ducor DX11101.

“Ducor DX11101 has been developed

on the basis of market feedback

that indicates there is demand for

a clear grade of polypropylene

for food packaging that will allow

consumers to see its contents and

therefore heighten its appeal,”

confirms Wouter De Clercq, sales

manager at Ducor Petrochemicals.

“Our new grade meets this need and

is notable for its high transparency,

stiffness and processability.

Typical applications for the new

grade will include thermoformed

packaging such as high clarity

trays, cups and containers.”

Ducor Petrochemicals produces a

versatile range of polypropylene

homopolymers, block and random

copolymers, manufactured in various

standardised and customised grades.

Its products are environmentally

friendly, non toxic, recyclable

and used in the production of

packaging, textiles, films, housewares,

automotive, electrical appliances

as well as many other applications.

The Ducor Petrochemicals’

production plant in Rozenburg

has an annual output of 180kt

per year of polypropylene using a

Novolen gas phase technology.

Further information on Ducor

Petrochemicals and its Ducor

polypropylene grades can be found

at www.ducorchem.com.

New Ducor polypropylene grade meets demand for transparency

PANTONE 376 ECProcess c59m0y100k0

PANTONE 301 ECProcess c100m54y4k19


14

Product Portfolio


20

Vistamaxx™ propylene-based elastomers have it covered

Bob Martin (UK) Ltd of Yatton, near

Bristol, is the manufacturer of head

lice and nit combs on behalf of

Meda Pharma in the Netherlands,

marketed under its Prioderm brand.

The latest comb’s unique double-

ended design incorporates tines on

either side – made of stainless steel

and polypropylene (PP) respectively

– with a main body also made of PP.

In order to protect the comb user

from the metal tines when they are

not in use, a cover or sheath was

designed to fit snugly over the end of

the comb.

Requirements of the sheath were

for it to produce the right balance

of rigidity and flexibility to enable

ease of use (repeated removal

from and recovering of the tines),

yet durable and robust enough for

continued use without splitting.

Cost of manufacture was also a

major consideration. In its original

form, the cover was moulded from

a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

However, Bob Martin had concerns

with initial mouldings that they

would not provide the required tear

resistance and were proving to be

too “sticky” when removed from the

tines – hindering ease of use. Hence

the company set about looking for

an alternative material that would

address the performance issues of

the shroud as well as presenting a

more cost-effective alternative.

A call to Plastribution provided the solution.

Neil Dowling, technical sales

representative at Plastribution,

was Bob Martin’s first point of

contact and was quick to identify

the issues as ones that could be

solved with Vistamaxx™ propylene-

based elastomers from ExxonMobil

Chemical. When used for polymer

‘Expertise is something that all our suppliers and customers know they can rely on’ – Neil Dowling


15

Product Portfolio


21

modification, Vistamaxx™ propylene-

based elastomers can be blended

with a variety of polymers including

polypropylene to achieve the ideal

balance of flexibility, transparency

and impact performance.

In the case of the head lice and

nit comb shroud, Bob Martin and

Plastribution trailled different

concentrations of Vistamaxx™

propylene-based elastomers with

polypropylene before settling on

a 40% loading. The selected blend

provided the best balance of flexibility

and tear resistance for the application

and, versus the original TPE design,

resulted in a reduction in part weight

by 0.9 grams (due to the lower density

of PP/Vistamaxx compound) and

a more cost-effective alternative

(the price of the new blend is

approximately 20 percent lower

than that of the specified TPE).

The Vistamaxx™-based solution

proposed and implemented with

Plastribution’s support was to the

highest satisfaction of Bob Martin,

as a spokesperson for the company

confirms: “Our experience of working

with Plastribution was very positive.

At the time we were having difficulties

getting our equipment to produce

the shrouds with the right degree

of ‘give’ and Plastribution provided

invaluable advice that helped us

solve the technical challenge and at

the same time reduced our costs.”

Further information on Bob

Martin (UK) Ltd can be found

at: www.bobmartin.co.uk

Further information on

Vistamaxx™ propylene-based

elastomers can be found at:


Neil DowlingTechnical Sales Representative

Vistamaxx™ is a trademark of Exxon Mobil Corporation.


16


18

Invicta Group, in association with its material suppliers Cardia Bioplastics and Plastribution, is leading the way with the introduction of an exciting range of innovative products incorporating new generation Biohybrid™

materials from Cardia.

Making a material difference

The Leicester-based design and

manufacturing business unveiled a

new range of barware and point-

of-sale products utilising Cardia

Biohybrid™ sustainable packaging

technology during a special

customer presentation held

during October 2011.

Representatives of several of Invicta’s

blue-chip customers, including Diageo

Plc, The Coca-Cola Company and The

British Red Cross came to the event,

which was held at Clandon House in

Guildford, Surrey.

On display were 100 new and

existing point-of-sale display,

barware, drinks promotion, cosmetic

displays, in-store promotions,

charity and personal care products

moulded from Cardia Biohybrid™

resins combined with traditional

polymers such as polypropylene.

The articles made with Cardia

Biohybrid™ resins can contain up

to 50 percent sustainable material,

meaning that the carbon foot print of

the part is significantly lower than that

with conventional petroleum-based

polymers.

They are capable of being

processed on standard plastics

processing equipment, accept

the same high-quality digital

printing techniques for branding

“The introduction of these new products illustrates a fundamental acceptance of the need for change in attitudes towards the consumption of polymers derived from oil. ” – Chris Green

Chris GreenBusiness Development Manager


Product Portfolio

17

Product Portfolio


19

and decoration as conventional

materials, and are proven recyclable

in normal plastic waste streams.

“The new products, which are the

first of their kind in the industry,

constitute a major commitment to

Invicta’s major brand owners to help

them reduce their carbon footprint

and achieve their sustainability

targets,” commented The Countess

of Onslow, CEO of the Invicta

Group and host of the event.

Chris Green, Plastribution’s business

development manager, also

attended the event and informed

the assembled audience about

green material developments

within the company.

Reflecting on the Invicta launch, Chris

said: “The introduction of these new

products illustrates a fundamental

acceptance of the need for change

in attitudes towards the consumption

of polymers derived from oil.

The feedback from Invicta’s

customers on the day was extremely

positive, and as a result Plastribution

and Invicta are now working on

several new opportunities for low

carbon footprint products.”

Cardia Bioplastics managing director,

Dr Frank Glatz, said: “We are delighted

to be collaborating with Invicta

and Plastribution.

Plastribution is Cardia Bioplastics’

resin distributor in the UK, while Invicta

is one of the UK’s leading design

and manufacturing businesses for

point-of-sale products with a strong

track record of providing innovative

products. In addition to offering high

performing point-of-sale products

and excellent service, they are

clearly committed to sustainable

development of their products.

Our partnership with Invicta will

enable their customers to purchase

innovative products with reduced

dependence on finite oil resources

and lower carbon footprint.”

Cardia Biohybrid™ is a trademark of Cardia Bioplastics Limited.


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26

Exceeding the demands of film packaging

Exceed™ mPE resin products are

used to formulate a wide range of

film structures offering unrivalled

performance for highly demanding

end-use applications such as

multipack collation shrink films,

compression packaging films and

food and non-food packaging films.

The unique performance properties of

coextruded films based on Exceed™

mPE deliver opportunities to increase

value across the supply chain.

These properties include:

● Superior film toughness

and strength.

● Exceed mPE provides opportunities

for significant downgauging

of film thickness, leading to

reduced costs for the converter

(in terms of raw material, inventory,

delivery and disposal) and more

sustainable solutions for brand

owners and retailers through

reduced packaging weight.

● Moreover, greater film toughness

and strength means fewer end-

of-line packaging shut-downs

caused by film breakage.

Outstanding film impact resistance

Exceed mPE reduces end-of-line

application failure and the need

to provide after-sales support,

whilst simultaneously enhancing

packaging integrity and improving

tamper resistance and evidence.

Dazzling optical properties (gloss,

haze and transparency).

The use of Exceed mPE improves

print quality, thereby enhancing

product appeal, increasing

consumer brand recognition and

facilitating bar code reading.

Exceptional film sealing performance

Exceed mPE increases end-

of-line packaging speed at

no additional cost, potentially

postponing the need to invest in

new packaging line equipment.

For the end-user, outstanding seal

performance means enhanced

packaging integrity and the

improved performance of sealed

packages such as pouches and

laminated bags for longer shelf-life.

It also results in a reduction in form, fill

and seal packaging line shut-downs.

Available to the UK through Plastribution, Exceed™ metallocene polyethylene (mPE)resins – the flagship mPE technology from ExxonMobil Chemical – offer the opportunity for unrivalled film performance that can be used to create value not only for film converters but also for their customers.


19

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27

Increasing business value for converters and end-users

The significant benefits of Exceed

mPE based films, as listed above,

deliver new opportunities for

increasing value for both film

converters and their customers

versus conventional LLDPE resins.

These include the potential to

reduce working capital requirements

as a result of material savings

and reduced inventory levels; the

introduction of a more productive

packaging operation through

more robust sealing properties;

easier handling during distribution

because of better mechanical

properties and increased consumer

attention and “pick-up” due to

enhanced display characteristics.

A more sustainable flexible film solution

As mentioned, the superior

mechanical properties of Exceed

mPE based co-extruded films help

converters deliver more sustainable

flexible film solutions. An improvement

in film performance helps reduce

waste and can mean fewer package

failures, less content spillage and

longer packaging shelf-life.

At the same time, it presents the

opportunity for downgauging,

which helps reduce weight and

reduces film consumption.

Further information on

Exceed™ metallocene polyethylene

(mPE) resins can be found at:


An improvement in film performance helps reduce waste and can mean fewer package failures, less content spillage and longer packaging shelf-life.

Exceed™ is a trademark of Exxon Mobil Corporation


20

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23

Currently, Total Petrochemicals Polystyrene 6351 has been used for visible TV, air-conditioning unit, fan, washing machine and dish washer components.

In today’s consumer society,

electronic appliances such as TVs,

dishwashers and washing machines

not only bring convenience to our

daily life but have also become

part of our interior decoration.

In response to this market trend,

consumer electronics and appliance

manufacturers are not only investing

in improving the functionality and

reliability of their devices, but are also

giving a lot of attention to their design

and aesthetic consumer appeal.

In order to achieve a shiny,

cosmetic effect for a plastic cover,

acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

(ABS) would normally be the

primary option due to its ability to

combine a high gloss appearance

with good mechanical strength.

However, due to increasing cost

pressure resulting from feedstock

prices, many manufacturers

have been forced to find a more

cost-effective alternative to ABS

for some of their products.

High impact polystyrene (HIPS) is

cost competitive when compared

to ABS from the point of view of both

its formulation and its processing.

Normally, HIPS does not need

pre-drying before injection

moulding, and its processing

temperature is approximately

20°C lower than that of ABS.

However, in the case of standard

HIPS, its main shortcoming to date has

been its low gloss appearance, which

has limited its use in many high-end

consumer electronics applications.

Back in 2008, Total Petrochemicals

started development work in Asia

and Europe on a high gloss grade

of HIPS, the fruition of which was the

commercial introduction of Total

Petrochemicals Polystyrene 6351.

Beyond the established benefits of

standard HIPS, such as its balanced

mechanical strength, good

processability and good dimensional

stability, Total Petrochemicals’

Polystyrene 6351 achieves a high

gloss finish on moulded parts.

When compared to ABS:

● The gloss finish of Total

Petrochemicals Polystyrene

6351 is very close to ABS, and is

accepted for most applications;

● The Izod impact strength of Total

Petrochemicals’ Polystyrene

6351 is lower than that of ABS,

but its good tensile strength and

better elongation help balance

its mechanical performance;

● Total Petrochemicals’ Polystyrene

6351 contains much less

rubber, bringing cost-reduction

solutions for current ABS users.

For consumer electronics applications, a manufacturer may well consider the following tests:

● Cosmetic check – parts made of

Total Petrochemicals’ Polystyrene

6351 exhibit a shiny surface;

● Drop test – parts made of Total

Petrochemicals’ Polystyrene 6351

pass drop testing, even in the case

of large air-conditioner units;

● Screw test – parts made of Total

Petrochemicals’ Polystyrene

6351 pass screw tests with

ease thanks to the material’s

high tensile strength.

Currently, Total Petrochemicals

Polystyrene 6351 has been used

for visible TV, air-conditioning unit,

fan, washing machine and dish

washer components. The company

is also promoting its use in other

applications such as refrigerators,

toys or e-learning devices.

Today 6351 is only available

in China, but a European

version is due in early 2012.

For more information, please visit


High gloss, high impact polystyrene from Total Petrochemicals


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31

Gestora Catalana de Residuos, producers of the Granic® range of calcium carbonate and talc filled plastic masterbatches, has made two recent announcements that reflect the success of its products since their introduction.

Firstly, at its plant in Tarragona,

Spain, the company has

commissioned a second line to

provide an additional 55,000 tonnes

of production capacity for its

Granic® PE, PP and PS compounds,

replicating that of its initial line.

This will take the total annual

production capacity of the

plant – which is just 20 kilometres

(approximately 13 miles) from

factories belonging to some of the

leading players in the petrochemical

industry and 8 kilometres (around 5

miles) from Spain’s largest calcium

carbonate mine – to 145,000 tonnes,

consisting of 110,000 tonnes of

compounding capacity and 35,000

tonnes of recycling capacity.

The new line is expected to reach full output by March 2012.

“During 2011 we sold 49,000 tonnes of

Granic®, meaning that our initial line

is already operating at 95 percent

capacity,” explains Victor Oliva,

commercial director at Gestora

Catalana de Residuos. “This much-

required second line will provide us

with more scope for production as

well as the opportunity to develop

new products, for instance for

the blow moulding market or the

automotive industry.” According to

the company, reasons for the sales

success of its products are the high

quality and purity of the local calcium

carbonate used within them, making

them the reference filler masterbatch

in Europe, and providing the

lowest carbon footprint alternative

with values audited by TÜV.

The company has also recently

announced the introduction of a new

grade, Granic® 1025 PP compound,

to complement its existing offering for

the rafia and pipe sectors in particular.

As with all Granic® products, Granic®

1025 is an ecological masterbatch

with a very high content (84

percent) of selected and treated

ultrafine calcium carbonate at a

very high level of good dispersion.

It is 100 percent recyclable and just

16 percent dependent on crude

oil. The addition rate of Granic® is

typically between 5 and 40 percent,

depending on the final application,

providing benefits such as an increase

in productivity, a reduction in energy

consumption and an improvement

in mechanical properties.

Plastribution has been the sole

distributor in the United Kingdom

of the Granic® range of highly filled

calcium carbonate compounds

since the start of 2011.

Further information on Granic® can

be found at www.granic.es.

Expansion at Granic

Granic® is a registered trademark of Gestora Catalana de Residuo


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32

Conductive plastics

The answer is simple. Premix offers

just one product. It is a solution.

For Premix, customer problems

are challenges which must be

solved. Each successful solution

gives Premix a chance to launch a

new customer success story. What

are success stories made of?

Caring, Creating, Commitment

There are no shortcuts to

success. Premix has been

investing in know-how since

the company was founded.

But know-how alone is not

sufficient. Caring, Creating and

Commitment are essential factors.

Caring means a desire to do more

– adopt customer challenges,

explore, spend time and have a

genuine desire to find the best

possible sustainable solution.

Each new solution requires creativity,

i.e. ability and will to do something

differently, something that others

have not yet come to think of.

But the most important thing is

Commitment. Commitment is

an ability to convince customers

throughout the job done that they

are not alone – Premix has taken

the challenge and will solve it. Such

challenges will turn into further

success stories among those

already filed.

Premix – a provider of solutions

It is not possible to become a

solution provider by declaration. For

decades already, Premix has been

one of the leading companies in

the field of electrically conductive

plastics. The road from material

producer to solution provider has

been a long and rewarding one.

Specialisation has paid off. Some

of Premix’s end customers are

global industry leaders. Premix’s

solutions help facilitate your

everyday life. You can fuel your

car safely at a petrol station, have

a health examination at a clinic

or speak on your mobile phone.

Premix’s ability to solve problems

has turned into dozens of success

stories. Some of these stories can also

be read on Premix’s new website.

They are well worth reading.

Maybe the next story to be told there

will be yours?

Premix controls electrical charges and secures safe refuelling? Why?


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Product Portfolio


33

Is it time to kick off your own success story?

Premix and Plastribution are eager

to create a success story for you

and your company as well.

The ingredients for a successful mix

are already there. It takes Caring,

Creating and Commitment to

succeed on both sides. The rest is

work, competence and experience.

The fastest way for you to start

creating your success story is by

visiting Premix’s website, or you

can just throw your challenge to

Plastribution. We will take it from there.

New generations, new challenges

Premix is a family-owned company

where success has always been

based on its owners’ desire to do

more and to do things better.

Now a new generation has taken over

the responsibility for the company.

The same success principles will

remain, but based on visions and

means of the new generation.

A new success program has been

updated and installed. Premix

version 2.0 has been completed.

Premix has adopted a new

way of challenge. More direct,

deeper and more efficient.

www.premixgroup.com

Market leader in conductive plastics

Headquarters in Rajamäki, Finland

PREMIX EUROPE GmbH, sales

office in Schafflund, Germany

Business units

Compounding business unit

● Electrically conductive plastics

● Static dissipative plastics

Plastics in electronics business unit

● High frequency materials

● EMI shielding materials

● Thermally conductive materials

● High performance PPE compounds

Unique plastic solutions for telecommunications and electronics industries


24

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36

Plastribution’s distributor role for Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics has been extended to include its XANTAR® (PC), XANTAR® C (PC/ ABS) and XANTAR® E (PC/PET) products, with the intention of exploring new opportunities specifically for the UK automotive industry.

This new agreement reinforces the

very successful 22 year relationship

between the two companies.

Mitsubishi Engineering Plastics’

XANTAR® polycarbonate is a versatile

thermoplastic resin that is suitable

for a wide range of applications.

The XANTAR® product line consists of

general purpose and special grades

including flame retardant grades,

glass-fibre reinforced grades and

engineering structural foam grades.

The XANTAR® general purpose

grades are characterised by their

high transparency and impact

strength, excellent temperature

resistance, good dimensional

stability and biological inertness.

Specialised products within the

Xantar® portfolio include Xantar®

LDS (Laser Direct Structuring), a

range of custom-made PC and

PC/ABS based grades that enable

selective electroless plating by

means of laser direct structuring

(LDS) to integrate electric circuits into

moulded parts, and XANTAR® XRM

(Xtra Robust Modified), a family of

impact modified flame retardant PC

XANTAR® C is a blend of Xantar®

polycarbonate and a specially

developed high purity ABS.

Key properties of XANTAR® C

products are its low melt viscosity

and high impact resistance under

unfavourable conditions (such as low

temperatures or when exposed to

chemicals), its high level of purity, high

stability and bright natural colour.

It is available in standard, flame-

retardant and tailor-made grades.

XANTAR® E is a blend of XANTAR®

polycarbonate and polyethylene

terephthalate (PET) or polybutylene

terephthalate (PBT).

These products are mainly developed

for the automotive industry, both

interior and exterior applications

and consist of standard and special

grades. It exhibits high ageing

resistance and has benefits in

demanding impact situations e.g.

the combination of low temperature

performance and weld lines.

It also displays low volatility during

processing (low odour) and end-

use (reduced windshield fogging).

Due to its excellent compatibility

with other polyester components

it can easily be recycled with

optimal retention of properties.

Plastribution to offer Mitsubishi’s Xantar portfolio to the automotive industry


25

Product Portfolio


37

Common automotive applications

XANTAR® PC, PC/ABS and PC/PET

blends are predominantly used in

automotive interior applications.

Specially developed grades offer

solutions for demanding applications

such as, for instance, air conditioning

and venting nozzles, steering column

claddings, dashboard components

and interior lighting. XANTAR® based

materials pass today’s very stringent

environmental requirements with

respect to absence of heavy metals

and undesired volatile components.

They therefore match demands

for fogging, emission of volatiles

and odour in the car interior.

Specifically, XANTAR® E can be

used to meet the severest impact

requirements, whilst XANTAR® C is

available in several compositions to

match the application’s demand

for heat resistance and impact.

Further information on Mitsubishi

Engineering Plastics’ XANTAR® portfolio

please visit www.xantar.com

Xantar® is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Engineering-Plastics Corporation.


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Product Portfolio


38

First presented during the K-Fair 2010, the range of Lumicene® random copolymer products from Total Petrochemicals present new opportunities for cost reduction and additional downgauging of injection moulded products.

A unique range of polypropylene

Total Petrochemicals’ polypropylene

Lumicene® products are available

as five grades with a melt flow

index from 10 to 110 g/10 min,

depending on the market’s needs.

Whilst they are probably best known

for their aesthetics, polypropylene

Lumicene® has much more to

offer versus random (Ziegler Natta

catalyst) polypropylene: superior

food compatibility, higher rigidity

by 150 MPa, but at the same

time better impact resistance,

moulding productivity.

New opportunities for a range of applications

Producers of rigid food packaging,

caps and closures, medical devices,

pharmaceutical packaging, house

wares and kitchen wares are

now able to take full advantage

of the new Lumicene® random

metallocene product range.

Polymer substitution of polycarbonate

and PVC is another target, with

a strong penetration achieved

in demanding applications such

as baby bottle production.

Reasons for using Lumicene® random polypropylene grades include:

● Production cost reduction.

Moulding productivity: with

standard random (ZN catalyst)

dimensional variation occurs from

one injection shot to another

due to variation in shrinkage .

With Lumicene® the moulding

precision is much higher and

the reproducibility between

shots is much improved,

giving a lower reject rate of

out-of-specification parts.

Also, the higher rigidity allows a

faster demoulding. Faster cycle

time: reduced cooling and

injection time thanks to high fluidity

and high rigidity of Lumicene®

MR110MC2 (MFR 110 g/10min).

● Downgauging (cost and

environmental benefit). The

Lumicene® PP product range

exhibits 150 Mpa more rigidity,

allowing downgauging.

Lumicene® Random Copolymers a potential for productivity and environmental gains


27

Product Portfolio


39

At the same time, the impact

resistance shows a ductile

behaviour at room temperatures.

In short: higher rigidity combined

with better impact resistance.

● Superior food compatibility

Ultra low extractables and

best-in-class organoleptic

properties give the Lumicene®

range the status of universal

grades for food packaging.

● Improved part aesthetics

(gloss and/or transparency)

Case study: moulded food packaging tray produced with Lumicene® MR110MC2

The benefits attainable through

the adoption of Lumicene®

random polypropylene are best

illustrated by the costs relating to

the production of a 22 gram,

thin-walled food packaging tray.

Whereas standard production using

a Ziegler-Natta polypropylene

(MFI 40g/10 min) has a 5 second

cycle time at 235°C, the adoption

of Lumicene® MR110MC2 (MFI 110

g/10min) reduces cycle time to 4.45

seconds at 215°C, meaning higher

productivity and energy savings.

With the 150 MPa rigidity of the

Lumicene® PP product, there

is a downgauging potential

of between 4 and 8%.

All in all, this can lead to a potential

cost reduction of more than 100 €/

tonne for converters and a decrease

of the carbon footprint of the

produced article. Superior food

compatibility and excellent aesthetics

provide additional value.

Further information:


All in all, this can lead to a potential cost reduction of more than 100 €/tonne for converters and a decrease of the carbon footprint of the produced article.

Lumicene® is a registered trademark of Total Petrochemicals.


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40

Plastribution has been the appointed distributor of Sumika’s Thermofil® range of reinforced polypropylene (PP) compounds in the UK since 2010.

During October 2011, eight

representatives of Plastribution’s

distribution sales team headed down

to Havant in Hampshire to visit Sumika

Polymer Compounds (UK) Ltd and

find out more about the company,

its products and their applications.

Sumika Polymer Compounds (SPC)

was founded in November 2007

after a consortium of Sumitomo

Chemical Group (50%), Itochu

Corporation (25%) and Toyo Ink

(25%) acquired both of the former

Asahi Thermofil compounding

companies in the UK and France.

The two sites were renamed to

Sumika Polymer Compounds (UK)

Ltd and Sumika Polymer Compounds

(France) S.A. respectively and

provide the location for SPC’s

manufacturing and technical

excellence centres in each country.

Ownership by the new shareholders,

including a significant PP major in

the form of Sumitomo, has allowed

SPC to strengthen its position in

Europe, particularly with regard to the

expansion of its already successful

Thermofil® range of reinforced

polypropylene (PP) compounds.

The glass- and mineral-modified PP

compounds are designed to meet the

evolving requirements of the global

automotive, household appliance

and general engineering industries.

They can be used as a replacement

for traditional and more expensive

engineering thermoplastics such as

polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and

polyamide (PA), delivering benefits

such as weight and cost savings,

ease of processing and design.

Unique product know-how

The Thermofil® range is based on the

company’s expertise in the advanced

coupling of polypropylene and glass

fibre. Implementing a unique screw

design and process knowledge, the

glass fibres are optimally distributed

throughout the compound for superior

performance in terms of strength and

stiffness, temperature resistance and

impact strength versus conventional

glass fibre reinforced polypropylenes.

The glass fibres can be combined

with mineral fillers for further

enhanced mechanical properties.

The Thermofil® family of glass-

coupled polypropylene is available

in an extensive range, from high

stiffness to high impact grades,

with Thermofil® HP F610X forming

one of the most recent additions.

A 30 percent high performance

glass-coupled PP with outstanding

tensile strength, impact strength

and stiffness, Thermofil® HP F610X is

intended as a replacement for long

glass fibre reinforced polypropylene,

glass-reinforced PA and glass-

reinforced PBT in automotive

and industrial applications.

Sustainable solutions

During their visit, the Plastribution

representatives also found out more

about the range of glass-coupled

recycled PP compounds offered by

SPC to the automotive industry. In

many cases these materials, with a

recycled PP content of up to 100%,

can replace virgin PP compounds,

metal, and PA in applications such as

engine noise shields, fan shrouds or

battery cases without compromising

performance or cost.

Further information:

www.sumika.co.uk

Thermofil® is a registered trademark

of Sumika Polymer Compounds

Inside knowledge

Sumika Polymer Compounds


29

Product Portfolio


41

Next generation PEEK polymer from Evonik

Evonik Industries has recently unveiled an improved polyether etherketone (PEEK) that can potentially double the lifespan of dynamically-stressed moulded components. New VESTAKEEP® Ultimate offers a 25 percent higher impact strength compared to other state-of-the-art PEEK polymers.

Such a technical enhancement

can help facilitate a whole host of

high-performance solutions that can

make the new product the material

of choice for PEEK polymer in a vast

range of applications.

In terms of the automobile and

aircraft industries, the enhanced

properties of VESTAKEEP® Ultimate

provide greater resilience to higher

stress-exposed components such as

sensors or ball bearings.

Its use as a sealant material for the oil

and gas industry can mean greater

resistance to high temperatures at

depths of up to several hundred

meters. Meanwhile, when used for

semiconductor manufacturing, new

VESTAKEEP® Ultimate can result in

greater process reliability due to its

high temperature resistance and

particularly low ion content.

Processing benefits of the new

material include greater ease of

manufacture of large diameter pipes

as a result of its high melt elasticity.

The introduction of the new PEEK

by Evonik is the latest in a series of

innovations in high performance

plastics that looks set to continue,

as Dirk Heinrich, director of business

management for VESTAKEEP®,

explains: “VESTAKEEP® Ultimate

shows that there is a long way to

go before the crest of the plastics

pyramid is reached.

Our developments haven’t finished

yet: We are continuing to work hard

on improving our products to support

our customers to meet performance

requirements.”

VESTAKEEP® Ultimate also constitutes

the latest addition to the full range

of VESTAKEEP® PEEK moulding

compounds exclusively supplied

to the UK market by Plastribution.

VESTAKEEP® PEEK polymers are

particularly suitable for applications

that are required to meet extremely

high mechanical, thermal, and

chemical requirements, enabling

the production of long-lasting

components that can be used under

the toughest conditions.

For more information, please visit:

www.vestakeep.com

Vestakeep® is a registered trademark of the Evonik Degussa GmbH.


30

Product Portfolio

Issue 03 – October 2012

4

The family of PLEXIGLAS® moulding compounds from Evonik Industries AG is now available in a new line-up.

PLEXIGLAS® moulding compounds

are thermoplastics based on

polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

They are characterised by a number

of chemical, physical and technical

properties that are indispensable for

manufacturing high-quality parts.

These include: absolute clarity,

enabling pure colours with an

outstanding degree of precision,

convincing longevity, offering

unsurpassed resistance to weathering

and aging, resectability, both in terms

of chemical recycling and material

recovery, surface toughness,

providing the best scratch resistance

of all thermoplastics, and – in the

case of certain moulding compounds

– approval for food contact.

A new line-up for PLEXIGLAS®

moulding compounds


31

Product Portfolio


5

Product overview

PLEXIGLAS® standard moulding compounds

Depending on the grade, the

PLEXIGLAS® standard moulding

compounds differ in their physical

properties such as flow and heat

deflection temperature under

load. They can be processed

by means of all conventional

thermoplastic processing methods.

PLEXIGLAS® Heatresist A higher heat deflection

temperature is the distinguishing

feature of these speciality PMMA

moulding compounds.

PLEXIGLAS® Heatstop (formerly CoolTouch)

These heat-reflecting PMMA moulding

compounds, solid and multi-skin

sheets offer greater energy efficiency

by cutting air conditioning costs.

A multi-skin sheet variant filled with

aerogel offers high heat insulation.

PLEXIGLAS® Hi-Gloss

A noble appearance and

special deep-view effect are the

characteristics of these high-gloss

solid sheets, which are available

in various colours and with up-

to-the-minute décors. Speciality

moulding compounds provide

injection-moulded components

with a high-gloss Class A surface

and remarkable depth of colour.

PLEXIGLAS® LED*

The new dimension of light: speciality

PMMA sheets and moulding

compounds for efficient lighting

applications combined with LEDs.

Speciality products for edge lighting

and backlighting offer maximum

light transmission without disturbing

hot spots, as well as attractive

and playful colour effects.

PLEXIGLAS® Optical PMMA moulding compounds and

sheets with optical functionalities,

high light guidance and distribution

provide a uniformly bright and

perfectly sharp picture, especially

in display applications and when

used for rear projection.

PLEXIGLAS® Resist These impact-modified

moulding compounds, multi-skin,

corrugated and solid sheets and

tubes combine toughness with

excellent weather resistance.

PLEXIGLAS® Satinice

This material’s velvet surfaces are

robust, pleasant to the touch and

discretely light-diffusing. Sheets

and tubes are available with a

matte satin surface on one or both

sides, or with diffuser beads evenly

distributed throughout the material, in

various colours. Available as diffuser

moulding compounds for components

with a light-diffusing effect.

PLEXIGLAS® Solar These ultra-pure moulding compounds,

sheets and Fresnel lenses have specific

light transmission properties and high

resistance to UV light and weathering,

which makes them suitable for

high-efficiency solar modules.

Further information: www.plexiglas.net

The Performance Polymers Business

Unit of Evonik Industries is a worldwide

manufacturer of PMMA products sold

under the PLEXIGLAS® trademarks

on the European, Asian, African and

Australian continents and under the

trademark ACRYLITE® in the Americas.

* See separate article in this issue

of know-how magazine.



24

More efficient LEDs

Now available from Plastribution, new PLEXIGLAS® LED (previously EndLighten T) from Evonik Industries AG is a moulding compound for edge-lit surfaces that is specially designed for transparent edge-lit applications using LEDs. It combines high transparency with very good light diffusion, enabling direct lighting with LEDs without hot spots.

LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are

indispensable for modern lighting

design. Two new PLEXIGLAS® moulding

compound grades now enable

lighting manufacturers and designers

to use energy-saving LEDs to even

better advantage.

Very good light diffusion for edge-lit elements Highly transparent moulded and

extruded parts that enable light to be

simultaneously fed in via the edges

and evenly emitted across their entire

surface are no longer a contradiction

in terms.

The extremely efficient formulation

of the new PLEXIGLAS® moulding

compounds from the PLEXIGLAS® LED

product family makes it possible to

combine these two properties.

Previously, products offering

good light diffusion were also less

transparent. Not so with the new

product that has been specially

developed for LED edge-lighting

systems and appears crystal-clear

when unlit.

The combination of transparency

and the play of different colours

allows designers to create specific

moods, whether for ambient lighting

of furniture and in vehicles, or for

displays, control systems, circuit

elements or industrial lighting.

The new PLEXIGLAS® LED moulding

compound is available in four grades

that allow illumination of the entire

component surface up to an area of

96 centimetres, with homogenous

light output.

The material is suitable for all

thermoplastic processing methods.

Uniform direct lighting for slim luminaires.PLEXIGLAS® LED moulding compounds

have been developed in two new

speciality colours for extremely flat

lighting installations with direct

LED lighting.

The light-diffusing moulding

compounds transmit over 60% of light

and therefore prevent fluctuations in

luminance, even at extremely low

wall thicknesses.

That offers entirely new creative

scope to designers, who can now

place LEDS very close to light covers,

without visible hot spots.

Further information: www.plexiglas.net

The Performance Polymers Business

Unit of Evonik Industries is a worldwide

manufacturer of PMMA products sold

under the PLEXIGLAS® trademarks

on the European, Asian, African and

Australian continents and under the

trademark ACRYLITE® in the Americas.


32

Product Portfolio


25


33

Product Portfolio


26

More efficient processing and better quality thermoformed packaging

Manufacturers of beverage cups and containers face a number of challenges, especially when they use homopolymer polypropylene (hPP) in thermoforming.

Some of these issues include lack of detail, incomplete forming or cracking during manufacture. This is due to the poor flexibility and low-temperature impact resistance of PP.

Because of low impact resistance, products can be damaged during handling and transportation. Another problem is poor clarity, which can result from using a polyethylene-based impact modifier.


34

Product Portfolio


27

Material challengesAn evaluation of the materials typically

used for the production of food and

beverage containers – including

polyethylene terephthalate (PET),

polystyrene (PS), homopolymer

polypropylene (hPP) or random

copolymer PP (RCP) – reveals the

following conclusions: PET provides

good clarity but exhibits poor heat

resistance. As a result, PET containers

cannot be used for hot beverages

or used in a microwave, as they

may warp. PET is also difficult for

masterbatch dispersion and cannot

be used long-term, re-filled or re-used.

PS can either be transparent

or coloured and offers good

processability, but it has poor heat

resistance and inadequate impact

and tear resistance, especially at

low temperatures. While hPP offers

good heat resistance and broad food

contact compliance, it lacks flexibility.

This can result in unsatisfactory detail

and incomplete forming or cracking

during manufacture, leading to

higher rejection rates than with other

materials. It also exhibits low impact

resistance during transportation and

can be brittle at low temperatures.

RCP can be a more expensive

option than hPP but while it

provides good clarity and flexibility,

its impact resistance remains

inadequate at low temperatures.

To improve flexibility, a “three-in-one”

polymer formulation may be pursued.

Comprising 15 percent low density

polyethylene (LDPE), 15 percent high

density polyethylene (HDPE) and 70

percent PP, such a combination can

improve flexibility during processing,

but reduce clarity. Incorporating

a fourth ingredient, a nucleating

or clarifying agent, can improve

clarity but it also can introduce a

problem of odour during processing.

New possibilities with Vistamaxx™

Vistamaxx™ propylene-based

elastomers can offer two solutions with

regard to flexibility: For applications

requiring a balance of impact

resistance, clarity and stiffness, a dry

blend formulation of 5-10 percent

Vistamaxx™ 3020 propylene-based

elastomer with PP can be used. This

has been proven to reduce cup

breakage during production and

transportation. As an alternative

solution, a low dosage of Vistamaxx™

6102 propylene-based elastomer can

be added to PP. This improves impact

resistance and maintains clarity, while

avoiding die cutting issues, at low cost.

More efficient processingVistamaxx™ can easily be blended

with hPP and RCP. Compatibility

with polypropylene, combined with

improved flexibility and elasticity,

results in a simpler moulding process

which is important for complex

shapes, such as deep-draw cups.

Compounders can target the flexibility

that is best-suited for the application,

giving them a broader choice than

the original hPP or RCP grades.

The lower melt temperature and

higher flow of Vistamaxx™ propylene-

based elastomers allow the processing

temperature to be reduced and

the processing rate to increase. This

can reduce energy consumption

and improve processing efficiency.

Its flexibility helps to increase the draw

ratio resulting in fewer flow marks,

better product quality and lower

scrap rate. The scrap rate can also

be reduced because the elastomer

shrinks less than PP, making the

production process easier to control

and die cutting more accurate, for

improved cup and lid matching.

Better productsVistamaxx™ can cost-effectively

improve overall product quality

for attractive packaging with

more customer appeal. It helps to

maintain clarity, colour dispersion

and reduces or eliminates stress

whitening to maintain the colour and

quality of the part. This is important

for cups and other containers, such

as sheets, trays, hinges and profiles.

Enhanced impact strength enables

downgauging opportunities for

lower material usage and costs.

Breakage during storage and

handling is minimised, and cups are

less prone to collapse when stacked,

making transportation easier. Even

at low temperatures, Vistamaxx™

propylene-based elastomers help

to improve the impact strength

of PP due to a glass transition

temperature of -28°C (-18.4°F).

Low seal initiation temperatures and

excellent heat-sealing characteristics

can lead to energy savings and

reduced costs. For applications

that require a greater degree of slip

resistance, such as sheets, grips, and

cups, it can be used to increase the

coefficients of friction. This results

in better traction, so that products

are less likely to slip during use.

Complying with US and EU food

contact regulations, Vistamaxx™

is creating new possibilities for

thermoformed cups and other

food packaging applications.

Further information on Vistamaxx™

propylene-based elastomers can

be found at:


Vistamaxx™ is a trademark of

Exxon Mobil Corporation.


35

Product Portfolio

36

Product Portfolio


30

Film converters looking to produce flexible films with improved mechanical strength, enhanced sealing performance and opportunities for film-line output improvements are using Exceed™ and Enable™ metallocene polyethylene (mPE) resin blends, available to the UK through Plastribution.

Exceed™ and Enable™ metallocene

polyethylene (mPE) resin blends

deliver significant improvements

in performance compared

with LDPE resin-based blends,

creating opportunities for

downgauging of flexible films.

Associated benefits include a

significant improvement in impact

strength and tear resistance,

higher hot-tack peak and

broader hot-tack window, greater

processability, improved tensile

strength and enhanced package

integrity and less leakers.

This makes Exceed™ and Enable™

metallocene polyethylene (mPE)

resin blends ideal for film applications

such as consumer packaging, heavy

duty bags and sacks, compression

packaging and refuse bags.

On its own, Exceed™ mPE resin

offers the opportunity for unrivalled

film performance for highly

demanding end-use applications.

Outstanding film properties include

a superior balance of film toughness

and strength, outstanding film

impact resistance, dazzling film

optical properties and exceptional

film sealing performance.

Meanwhile, Enable™ mPE redefines

performance because it offers an

unprecedented combination of

film processing and higher alpha

olefin (HAO) performance benefits

in a single, unique resin. Its benefits

include operational stability, extended

film line output, versatility with HAO

performance and sourcing reduction.

When used in combination,

Exceed™ and Enable™ mPE resin

blends create opportunities for

significant downgauging through

overall improvement in mechanical

properties. For instance, Exceed™

and Enable™ mPE resin blends

provide the following benefits

compared with Exceed™ mPE2018

resin-rich blends with LDPE resins:

Significant improvement in tear resistance and impact strength

Excellent sealing capability

Outstanding extrusion performance

Ideal for skin layers in coextruded films

Step-out performance for highly demanding applications


37

Product Portfolio


31

Alternatively, Exceed™ and Enable™

mPE resin blends provide the following

benefits compared with Exceed™ mPE

resin-lean blends with LDPE resins:

Substantial downgauging

Significantly improved toughness

Improved impact strength and tear resistance

Excellent sealing capability

Drawdown ability

Finally, Exceed™ and Enable™ mPE

resin blends provide the following

benefits compared with Exceed mPE

resin-rich blends with LDPE resins:

Additional downgauging

Equivalent extrusion performance

Excellent bubble stability

Improved impact resistance

Film converters in the UK looking

for step-out performance for their

highly demanding film applications

should contact Plastribution about

the Exceed™ and Enable™ mPE resin

blends from ExxonMobil Chemical.

Further information on Exceed™ and

Enable™ metallocene polyethylene

(mPE) resin blends can be found at:


Enable™ and Exceed™ are trademarks

of Exxon Mobil Corporation.

Step-out performance for highly demanding applications

Outstanding film properties include a superior balance of film toughness and strength, outstanding film impact resistance, dazzling film optical properties and exceptional film sealing performance.


38

Product Portfolio


32

New Radilon A RV500RW 339 NER is a nylon 66 with 50% glass fibre from Radici Plastics in Italy, available in the UK through Plastribution, that moulds easily while offering new opportunities for metal replacement in automotive applications.

With the use of plastics in cars

expected to continue to rise

considerably, the new material

extends metal-replacement

opportunities and allows moulders

to produce components that

are not only lighter—and thus

more environmentally friendly—

but more complex, with multiple

integrated functions.

Enhanced performanceWhen testing Radilon A RV500RW 339

NER against a competing 50% glass-

filled nylon 66, property improvements

can be observed across the board.

Measured at 23°C, tensile strength of

the new grade reached 260 MPa, a

12% increase over the other material

tested. Strain at break was also about

12% better at higher temperatures

(150°C). Tensile strength at weld lines

was reported to be 20% higher than

the competing 50% glass compound.

Results of notched and un-notched

Charpy impact test results showed that

Radilon A RV500RW 339 NER is up to

30% tougher than the other material

tested. Other important characteristics

of automotive structural materials are

high-speed stress-strain properties.

Radici’s tests show that the stiffness

and energy absorption of the

Radilon A compound are greater

than for competing compounds at

all load application speeds. These

improved dynamic properties make

this material particularly suitable

for applications such as engine

mounts and gearbox housings.

The material exhibits significant

improvements in fatigue limits

compared with competing grades,

and a noticeable advantage in

creep resistance, which is critical for

applications such as valve covers and

oil cups, because these components

are subjected to a constant load for

their entire useful life, and maximum

oil tightness is always required.

Easy to mouldProduction tests conducted by Radici

reveal that the material processes

almost exactly like the standard glass-

filled nylon 66. During its development,

particular attention was paid to the

material’s mechanical properties

when the material was exposed

to high processing temperatures

for prolonged hold times.

Through the introduction of Radilon A

RV500RW 339 NER, Radici is bringing

to market a material that can be

moulded at temperatures above

300°C in order to maximise weld-line

strength without polymer degradation.

The chart opposite indicates

that the tensile strength of the

material, with and without weld

lines, does not change for melt

Nylon replaces metal in cars


39

Product Portfolio


33

Barrel Residence Time: 6mins

High Performance Radilon

Melt Temperature (oC)

Tens

ile S

treng

th (

MPa

)

270

280

290

300

310

320

330

A RV500RW 339 NER

Benchmark

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

Tensile Strength at Break Values at Different Melt Temperatures with welding line (23oC, DAM, ISO 527)

Radilon© A RV500 RW blk 339 Has been designed to guarantee the property’s stability even when processed in severe conditions and in presence of a weld line.

temperatures of up 310°C and

barrel hold times of up to 6 min.

One of the first commercial

applications to benefit from the

new material is a gear-shift cable

reaction bracket, previously made in

aluminium, that has been developed

by the Italian moulder Sila Holding in

collaboration with Radici. The switch

from aluminium to Radilon A RV500RW

339 NER resulted in the component

weighing 30% less and becoming

20% cheaper to produce.



22

Taiwanese plastics producer Chi Mei has introduced a new grade of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) resin that is tailored to achieving high quality results with electroplating. The new material – Polylac® PA-726M – is intended for use in automotive parts and components, particularly front grilles, and is already approved for use by some automotive OEMs.

The inherent properties of ABS

make it highly suitable for the

metalising process and enable

the continuous production of high

volumes of electroplated plastic

components. Consequently,

moulded ABS plastic components

are substantially cheaper to

manufacture than metal parts and

also present the major benefit of

weight reduction – a particularly

important factor for vehicle parts.

If plated to a high quality, there

should also be no apparent

visual difference between the

metal and plastic parts.

To help ensure high quality results,

Chi Mei has introduced Polylac®

PA-726M – a new electroplating

grade of ABS that surpasses its

previous offering in terms of reduced

impurities, visual appearance of the

final part and corrosion resistance.

“One enhancement of the new

material is its higher melt flow rate,

which leads to a reduced occurrence

of streaking in the plated part,”

explains Martin White, who looks

after Styrenics and Specialities

at Plastribution.

“Moreover, thanks to the modified

process employed by Chi Mei to

produce PA-726M, the material

contains fewer impurities that can

hinder electroplating performance

and result in a reduced yield rate.”

Evaluation tests carried out by Chi

Mei on chrome-plated components

moulded from the new material

included thermal cycle testing,

to determine its durability under

different temperature conditions,

and CASS (Copper Accelerated

Acetic Acid Salt Spray) testing, to

determine corrosion resistance.

The excellent results of the new

material in these tests, as well as the

impressive visual results achieved on

trial parts, contributed to its approval

by an automotive OEM in Taiwan.

“With the introduction of Polylac®

PA-726M, which is now also available

to our customers in the UK, we

can offer a new alternative for

the electroplating of ABS that is

able to fulfil the rigorous demands

of automotive applications,”

concludes Martin White.

For further information visit

www.plastribution.co.uk/product-search

or call Martin White on 01530 560560

New enhanced finish electroplating grade of ABS from Chi Mei Polylac® is a registered trademark

of Chi Mei Corporation.


40

Product Portfolio

41

Product Portfolio


37

Gestora Catalana de Residuos, producers of the Granic® range of calcium carbonate and talc filled plastic masterbatches, has introduced a new grade recommended for blow moulding applications using high density polyethylene (HDPE).

In contrast to the previously

recommend grade, new Granic®

762 uses a very low melt flow special

copolymer HDPE base carrier resin with

a calcium carbonate content of 80%,

as Chris Green, Business Development

Manager at Plastribution, explains:

“The use of the previous linear low

density polyethylene (LLDPE) based

grades at higher addition rates was

found to reduce modulus and tensile

properties in some cases and to cause

some issues in processing, particularly

with very large blow mouldings.

The new grade addresses these

issues by utilising a low melt flow

HDPE carrier that will have no

adverse effect at higher loadings

over 15 percent or more.”

The base carrier resin used in Granic®

762 is a high molecular weight

HDPE copolymer that provides

the finished article with a higher

e-modulus than was previously

achievable with a LLDPE carrier.

At the same time, the use of the

ultrafine calcium carbonate granules

in the polymer matrix permits the

down-gauging of wall thickness

in blow moulded articles such as

bottles and containers without

sacrificing mechanical, flexural

and drop impact properties.

Further benefits of the new grade

include the use of a particularly

white form of calcium carbonate

that facilitates a reduction in

the amount of titanium dioxide

required to produce blow-moulded

white bottles and white films.

Moreover, as calcium carbonate is

not a pigment, Granic®762 is also

suitable for use in the production of

coloured bottles. Finally, as HDPE

is not transparent, a loading of

Granic® 762 of up to 10 percent

is possible (depending on wall

thickness) in natural HDPE bottles

and films without any discernible

change in visual appearance.

“Our full commercial introduction

of Granic®762 was in April this year,

and already several big customers

are placing regular orders that can

be measured in truck loads,” reports

Victor Oliva, Commercial Director at

Gestora Catalana de Residuos. “We

see a huge potential in this material,

with a major producer of “probiotic”

yogurt-type drinks already trialing its

use in Europe and Latin-America.”

The Granic® range is characterised

by the high purity preparation and

treatment of the calcium carbonate

used in the masterbatch. The additive

can be added to almost all types of

polymers, including polyethylene,

polypropylene or polystyrene

derivatives, at dosages of up to 60

percent depending on application.

Benefits of Granic® in moulded

parts include significant efficiencies

in terms of output and energy

costs. In film applications the use of

Granic® can lead to improvements

in mechanical performance

and production efficiency.

Plastribution has been the sole

distributor in the United Kingdom of the

Granic® range of highly filled calcium

carbonate compounds since 2011.

Further information on Granic®

can be found at www.granic.es.

New Granic® grade for blow moulding and film applications


42

Product Portfolio


42

We say no to surcharges!

Following the fuel crisis back in 2007,

polymer distributors faced cost

pressures from their logistics providers

when the cost of diesel increased

dramatically.

In order to recover these costs,

many suppliers chose to apply order

surcharges to cover them.

In line with our policy of being

easy to do business with, here

is a summary of what our “no

surcharges” policy means.

Here at Plastribution we choose to continue with an all-inclusive pricing policy. That remains our position today.

500kgs

kh

500kgs

500kgs

kh

500kgs

A specific team dedicated to servicing your requirements

Order processing costs

Delivery costs for quantities > 500kgs

Fuel surcharges

Currency surcharges

Packaging

Compliance with packaging waste legislation

Training

Technical back-up and advice

Price know-how

VAT

Timed and same day deliveries

Delivery costs for quantities < 500kgs

INCLUDED EXCLUDED


43

Product PortfolioIssue 02 – March 2012

43

Include

d

Excl

ud

ed

500kgs

500kgs

Our no surcharge

policykh



12

Plastribution technical capabilities

Material Choices

Competitor analysis – existing components Material identification Material comparison Material alternative Sustainable choices

Efficiency

Sustainable products Recycling Down gauging Cycle optimisation Machine / ancillary optimisation

Regulatory & Compliance

REACH WEEE Food Water contact Medical FR MSDS

Investment Advice

Material Machine Tooling Ancillaries


44

Product Portfolio


13


Troubleshooting

Material Process Design Quality

Outsourcing

Tool trials Material qualification Process optimisation Third party manufacturing

Training & Development

Materials Processing On-site training available

Idea to Component

Concept Practical considerations Part design Tool design Rapid prototyping Route to manufacture Process optimisation Product testing


45

Product Portfolio


13


Troubleshooting

Material Process Design Quality

Outsourcing

Tool trials Material qualification Process optimisation Third party manufacturing

Training & Development

Materials Processing On-site training available

Idea to Component

Concept Practical considerations Part design Tool design Rapid prototyping Route to manufacture Process optimisation Product testing


Tel: 0845 34 54 560Email: [email protected]


Plastribution Limited PO Box 77435 Ashby ParkCEVA HouseAshby-de-la-ZouchLeicestershire LE65 1XY

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