Masterbatch

Masterbatch

A masterbatch is a product in which pigments and other additives are optimally mixed in a base resin. These additives are usually powdered dyes (pigments), mineral fillers, or chemicals that are added to the polymer for three different purposes, including color, enhancing properties, or reducing cost. The polymer base should usually be similar to the original plastic and have a granular appearance. Masterbatches consist of three main components: a polymer base, additives, and compatibilizers. Commonly used polymer bases are various types of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, ethylene vinyl acetate, low molecular weight waxes, alkyd polymers, etc. Chemical additives are added to masterbatches to modify the properties of polymers and include property enhancers, pigments, and fillers. The amount of additive supplied to the masterbatch varies depending on the type and strength of the additive and the polymer base. Compatibility agents, known in science as amphiphilic compounds, have one moisture-loving and one organ-loving end and, due to their unique chemical nature, increase thermal stability, compatibility with polyolefins and technical polymers, form a stable layer on the surface of the additive, pigment or filler by interacting with them and connecting them with a polymer matrix. The presence of compatibilizing agents also creates acidity on the surface of the pigment particles, which leads to better dispersion of the pigment and, without affecting the color quality, stabilizes the polymer. Asan Form Kimia is one of the largest suppliers and exporters of polymer masterbatches in Iran.