Clariant Masterbatches has developed liquid color technology for polyolefin blow molding.
The Charlotte, N.C., firm says it has solved many of the problems preventing wider use of liquid color and additive concentrates in extrusion blow molding of polyethylene and polypropylene.
Initial testing shows liquid vehicle technology allows higher pigment loadings and lower usage rates while cutting back on problems such as screw slippage. Improved weld line strength is obtained and faster color changes are other benefits, according to Clariant.
Until now, use of liquid color has been limited in polyolefins because carrier systems such as mineral oil would not incorporate well with the resins, explained Raymond Sloan, head of liquid color, Clariant Masterbatches North America.
The new liquid system incorporates suspension aids and binders while other components enhance flow.
Sloan says he is confident multilayer tests will also prove out benefits obtained in monolayer tests.
Tel. 704-235-5702, fax 704-235-5701, email [email protected].
