Lanxess (Leverkusen / Germany; www.lanxess.com) has gained approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its "Mesamoll II" plasticiser for use in products that come into contact with aqueous based foodstuffs opening up a range of new applications for the additive including toys. The plasticiser alkylsulfonic phenyl ester is suitable for polymers such as polyurethane, NBR rubber and PVC. According to Lanxess, Mesamoll II offers faster gelling characteristics than standard plasticisers at lower operating temperatures, reducing production and processing times and lowering manufacturing costs.

The saponification resistance of the plasticiser prolongs the life of PVC while offering high weathering resistance and printability while PVC film containing the additive displays improved heat-sealing characteristics. Lanxess says that Mesamoll II is suitable for a large number of applications which include toys, gloves, film for water beds, sealants and casting compounds for the construction sector, as well as swimming floats and rubber boots.