Munich-based chemical group Wacker will introduce an additive masterbatch for polyethylene compounding at K 2022- the 22nd international trade fair for plastics and rubber will take place in Düsseldorf from October 19-26, 2022. Marketed as GENIOPLAST PE50S08, this silicone product makes it easier to manufacture ready-to-use polyethylene moulding compounds.

With GENIOPLAST PE50S08, Wacker is adding a product developed specifically for use in polyethylene moulding compounds to its portfolio of silicone-based compounding additives. The additive masterbatch in pellet form is an active component that contains a non-reactive, ultra-high-molecular polydimethylsiloxane. The active ingredient’s carrier is a low-density polyethylene. The silicone content of the masterbatch is 50 per cent. It also improves the surface properties of the resulting plastic products. The polyethylene masterbatch can, for instance, be used for extruding films or for improved processing of recycled polyethylene compounds, the company said in a press release.

GENIOPLAST PE50S08 is used as a highly effective processing aid. Its silicone active ingredient improves filler distribution in filled formulations and the flow properties of the polymer melt. This increases extruder throughput. It also reduces the energy needed for compounding – a clear advantage for compounders.

Where mixtures of different polyethylene grades are compounded, as is the case in the processing of recycled polyethylene, GENIOPLAST PE50S08 ensures uniform mixing without any major torque or temperature fluctuations. Thus, polyethylene recycling is one of the new additive’s key application areas.

All the process-enhancing properties also come into play when the compound is moulded. In blown film extrusion, manufacturers of poly-ethylene film formulations can substantially boost productivity. In the extrusion of cable sheathing, hoses or profiles made of filled polyethylene, there are fewer die deposits.

Furthermore, GENIOPLAST PE50S08 improves the surface structure of polyethylene products. The additive reduces the coefficient of kinematic and dynamic friction of the plastic formulation, giving it a surface that feels silky and dry. As a result of the reduced surface friction, the products feature higher scratch and abrasion resistance. This makes it easier to unroll films. The additive also improves the plastic’s impact strength in the final product.

Generally, the dosage of GENIOPLAST PE50S08 is 1 to 3 per cent. The product is easy to feed with a standard system and is readily incorporated into polyethylene mixtures on a twin-screw extruder even when mineral fillers are added.

At the trade fair, Wacker will also be showcasing several other additives for thermoplastic compounding like GENIOPLAST Pellet S, GENIOPLAST PP50S12 and GENIOPLAST Pellet 345.

GENIOPLAST Pellet S is universally suitable for compounding all thermoplastics. As an active component, it contains a non-crosslinked ultra-high-molecular silicone polymer mounted on pyrogenic silica. Its main application area is flame-resistant cable sheathing. GENIOPLAST PP50S12 improves the scratch resistance of polypropylene products. Its most important applications are packaging films, garden furniture and components for car interiors. GENIOPLAST Pellet 345 for thermoplastic polyurethanes imparts a pleasant feel to smart-phone covers, wearable armbands and other items made of these plastics. It also increases dirt resistance.