IT Plast Maggio 2021 | Page 51

Multifunctional Masterbatch
Multifunctional masterbatches deliver performance enhancement by combining generic masterbatch concepts . Thus multifunctionality is created : multiple functions and material performances are offered by one single product , which in turn deliver cost efficiency . Some sectors , more than others , require multi-performing products . Among these , we should undoubtedly mention the sector of insulating pipes and polyethylene foils foamed with gas . The final applications in this sector are varied and represent a market that is always expanding and can therefore offer interesting opportunities to manufacturers . These range from pipes required to thermally insulate the components of plumbing and air conditioning systems , to those designed for the passage of drinking water , gas , sewage , irrigation , fire fighting pipes , pipes for purification systems , for underwater pipelines and much more . The products require high performance characteristics , superior technical features and practical application advantages . High flexibility of the insulating pipe is needed , together with greater ease of sliding on the pipes to be insulated , effective protection against tearing and abrasion , high capacity to reduce energy dissipation and CO2 emissions , reduction of noise transmission . Always produced in PE and in great demand are sheets of polyethylene foam , a light , flexible , elastic , waterproof and anti-mould , non-toxic material that can be used in the most varied sectors , from packaging to agriculture . In this respect Viba can offer its Vibatan ® PE Multifunctional Grey G6771 a combination of an anticollpse additive , a nucleating agent and an inorganic pigment masterbatch in polyethylene . The product has been expressly developed for the extrusion of gas foamed insulating pipes and sheets in polyethylene . The tests which have been conducted by our Labo show clear reinforcement of process and properties when adding PE Multifunctional Grey G6771 . This masterbatch offers not only ultimate mechanical properties , but also opens new opportunities by obtaining new physical features of the material . PE Multifunctional Grey G6771 contributes to enhance processability during extrusion and the properties in the final product . Multifunctional Grey G6771 offers many advantages , such as a valid anti-collapse action , by avoiding the collapse of foam and reducing the quantity of used gas , as it can keep gas inside the foamed product . Its improved nucleating action will be displayed in the presence of a regular closed-cell foam structure , while the particular pigment in use improves heat exchange , thus considerably increasing the insulating effect . The final colour of end products will be anthracite . www . plastmagazine . it