This story appeared in the second edition of Plastics Recycling magazine in June 2017.
Nexamite M021200, M992000: Designed for compounding and extrusion processes, Nexam Chemical's new additives are sold as masterbatches with PET as a carrier. To boost the properties of recycled PET, Nexamite M021200, a melt strengthener, and Nexamite M992000, a linear chain extender, can be added either by recyclers or processors to their materials. In addition to PET, M992000 is effective in polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and alloys such as PET-polyamide, PBT-polyamide and PBT-PC. It is used for monofilaments, strapping bands and film, as well as in applications that require hydrolysis resistance. A section of a recycled PET foam sheet enhanced by M992000 is shown at left.
What's new? The additives, which have been available since early this year.
Benefits: Improved material properties. M021200 can boost the intrinsic viscosity of material without gel formation, while M992000 extends the polymer chains, increasing the melt strength of the material. With the characteristics imparted by M021200, materials can be used at higher speeds in a variety of processes, including foam extrusion, blow molding and film blowing. In some cases, converters working with the materials can reduce part thickness, saving material costs.
Nexam Chemical, Lund, Sweden, 46 70-897-4439, www.nexamchemical.com
