What is Masterbatch?
In very simple terms Masterbatches are meticulously blended,
concentrated mixture of pigments, additives and carrier polymer that adds life
to plastics. They make plastics colorful, vibrant, durable and enhances its
functionality.
The lifecycle of masterbatch starts with selection of the
right polymer also known as carrier resin. Then depending on the desired
performance or end application requirement pigments, additives and other
reinforcing agents are selected and mixed in proportionate quantities in
specialized machinery. The mixture is heated, melted, and then cooled so it can
be easily cut into uniform pellets or granules.
What are the types of Masterbatch?
Masterbatches are generally differentiated into the
following categories:
White Masterbatch – White masterbatch are used
to give pure white color and opacity to plastics. They contain TiO2 (Titanium
Dioxide) as common pigment due to its high refractive index and excellent
opacity. For uniform color dispersion white masterbatches are chosen based on
their compatibility with the base resin. They are used in a wide variety of
products where a clean and pristine appearance is required.
Black Masterbatch- Black masterbatches are used in
automotive interior and exterior, electrical components & packaging
material. It is formulated with black carbon particles dispersed in carrier
resins. They offer good UV resistance and endurance for outdoor applications
and protect from degradation. Black masterbatch enhance the aesthetics for a
wide range of plastic goods while improving their functional properties.
Colored Masterbatch – Colored masterbatches
contain pigments to color plastic. The coloring agents are dispersed in carrier
resins, a thermoplastic polymer like PP or PE, along with additives for uniform
distribution and enhanced functional properties. Colored masterbatches are a
cost-effective way of adding color to plastic than incorporating color directly
in form of raw pigment. This also helps in reducing manufacturing complexity.
Colored masterbatches are primarily available in the
following colours:
1. Grey- Grey masterbatch allows manufacturers
in adding a neutral and sophisticated aesthetics to plastic applications. They
are commonly used in all sorts of industrial components, appliances, pipes, and
automotive fittings.
2. Green- Green masterbatches are used for
plastic applications that aim to convey an environment friendly appearance.
3. Red- Red masterbatches are specialized
concentrates used to add a consistent and uniform red colour to plastic. They
can be designed to improve UV stability, prevent degradation, and withstand
heat. Specific manufacturers often offer customization to meet specific colour
needs of the end application.
4. Voilet – Voilet masterbatches are used across
industry to add hues of purple to plastic. They improve properties and enhance
appeal of end application.
5. Blue- Vibrant shades of blue in endless
plastic applications are achieved through blue masterbatch. Usually, a
composition of carrier resins and blue pigment with additives, blue
masterbatches can be formulated according to product requirements.
6. Brown – Brown masterbatches are used to give
plastic products a neutral, earthy aesthetic.
7. Orange- An eye-catching colour, orange
masterbatches have wide range of applications as they enhance the appeal of
final application. They contain high quality combination of pigments or
concentrated orange pigments with carrier resins and additives depending upon
application to protect the colour from fading in outdoor applications and to
enhance resistance properties.
8. Yellow- Yellow masterbatches find
applications in various industries such as packaging, automotive, toys, and
various consumer goods. These concentrates are used to add a beautiful bright
yellow color to plastic products.
Additive Masterbatch - Additive masterbatches
are used to enhance properties of plastic for processing and end application.
It is a concentrated formulation that can include pigments, UV stabilizers,
anti-static, anti-fog, anti-slip agents, flame retardants and anti-foam agents.
Additives masterbatches are used to ensure consistency, uniformity, and quality
in plastics.
Masterbatches can be also differentiated based on carrier
resins. Few common Carrier resins used in masterbatches are:
1. PP - Polypropylene masterbatch are used in
applications where stiffness, heat resistance and chemical resistance are
important. It has a good compatibility with various polymer matrices.
2. PE– Polyethylene as carrier can be
categorized into Low density PE or LDPE and high-density PE or HDPE. They are
versatile and compatible with a wide range of polymers & are typically used
in pigmented masterbatches.
3. PVC – PVC or Polyvinyl Chloride resins are
used for PVC based material to ensure compatibility.
4. EVA- Ethylene Vinyl Acetate carrier resins
are generally used in additive masterbatches. They are effective where
flexibility and adhesion are required.
5. Polystyrene (PS) – It is used for
applications where clarity and rigidity are required.
Where can you get sustainable masterbatches in India?
Cosmo Speciality Chemicals is a stop solution for innovation
led products that keeps up with customer needs. CSC is the one of the leading
manufacturers and suppliers of sustainable PP and PE based white masterbatches
in India.
For more details connect with our masterbatch experts
today!
Tags:
Masterbatches, Sustainability, Sustainable Masterbatch
