Reduced-viscosity “Buna EP” from Bayer
Bayer Polymers (D-51368 Leverkusen; www.bayerpolymers.com) has modified the “Buna EP” in its Buna rubber family. The modification is aimed at giving the EPDM polymer an improved molecular architecture and a considerably lower processing viscosity. This then reduces the energy outlay required on extrusion, explains a Bayer spokesperson, and, at the same time, the material can be extruded more rapidly than other Buna EP grades on the same plant.

Non-stick effect for Atofina´s opaque PVC
Atofina (F-92091 Paris La Defense; www.atofina.com) has developed “Plastistrength 700 X”, a new PVC processing aid with a non-stick effect designed especially for packaging made of rigid PVC. According to information from the company, Plastistrength optimises the gelling behaviour of the plastics and improves their rheological properties. It can be used for calendering opaque or transparent rigid PVC as well as for the injection moulding, extrusion and extrusion blow moulding processes.

A further innovation is the PVC additive “Clearstrength 303 H”, a methyl methacrylate/butadiene/styrene copolymer (MBS) that marks a compromise between impact strength and transparency and is also suitable for both extrusion and calendering.

Good flow properties for DuPont´s anti-static “Teflon”
According to DuPont (Germany: D-61343 Bad Homburg; www.dupont.com) the company´s “Teflon PFA C-980” not only offers antistatic properties for application in explosion- endangered areas but also facilitates the production of parts with complex geometries. The flow properties of this fluoropolymer, which can be processed in the same way as a thermoplastic, are said to permit the extrusion of thin-walled hoses and corrugated hoses. Other applications mentioned are linings for pump housings, ball valves and T pieces. According to DuPont, resistance to stress cracking, bending fatigue strength and chemical resistance have all been improved.

Highly-uniform foams from Zotefoams
Developers at Zotefoams plc (GB-Croydon; www.zotefoams.com) have come up with two series of crosslinked, high-density foams which are now ready to be brought onto the market. “Neolene LH” is based on PE and “Neolene EH” on EVA. Both are available in densities of 100 and 170 kg/m³. The products are claimed to be particularly suitable for thermoforming and deep drawing. According to the company, they offer an especially fine and uniform structure.

Improved thermoplastics processing with Dyneon
The youngest member of the “Dynamar” PPA family at Dyneon (D-41460 Neuss; www.dyneon.com) has been designed to improve the processing properties of thermoplastics such as polyamides, polyester, polystyrene and acryl. According to the manufacturers, “FX 5914X”, to use its full designation, reduces die soiling by forming an antifriction layer on the metal surfaces inside the extrusion unit. This could make it easier to process high-molecular-weight polymers for blown film and fibre applications. According to Dyneon, the additive also prevents pigment deposits from forming inside the extruder and permits faster colour changes.