The important role of chemical additives in plastic production

Chemical additives are indispensable components in the plastic manufacturing process and can significantly improve the processing performance, mechanical properties and service life of plastic products. These additives include plasticizers, stabilizers, anti-aging agents, lubricants, etc., which not only improve product quality, but also give plastic products new functions.

Plasticizers: Improve softness and weather resistance

Plasticizer is a chemical additive commonly used in plastic manufacturing to improve the softness and elasticity of plastic products. By introducing plasticizer molecules into the polymer, the additive increases the gaps and mobility between plastic chains, thereby making the plastic less hard and brittle. For example, adding plasticizers to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can make it softer and more durable, making it suitable for manufacturing cables, hoses and other products.

Stabilizer: ensure smooth processing

Stabilizers also play an important role in plastic production. Thermal stabilizers can prevent discoloration, decomposition and other problems caused by thermal degradation of plastics during high-temperature processing. Light stabilizers can protect plastic products from photoaging when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time, thereby extending their service life. For example, some UV absorbers are often added to polypropylene during the production process to prevent it from fading and brittleness in outdoor applications.

Anti-aging agent: extend service life

Anti-aging agents are used to protect plastic products from aging, especially in application scenarios with harsh climate conditions. For example, antioxidants prevent thermal oxidative aging and can effectively resist oxidation reactions at high temperatures, allowing plastic products to remain stable in high-temperature environments. Anti-UV aging agents can reduce the damage to plastics caused by ultraviolet rays in the sun and are widely used in the manufacture of outdoor plastic products.

Lubricants and dispersants: improve processing efficiency

Lubricants and dispersants can reduce the friction between materials, improve processing fluidity, and improve production efficiency during the manufacturing process of plastic products. Lubricants can reduce the energy consumption of equipment and extend the service life of equipment in plastic processing. Dispersants can evenly disperse fillers and pigments to ensure the consistency and reliability of the appearance and performance of plastic products. For example, oxidized polyethylene wax is often added as a lubricant in the manufacture of polyethylene to improve its processing properties and surface quality.

Summarize

In general, chemical additives play a vital role in the field of plastic production. They can not only improve the processing performance and physical properties of plastic products, but also increase the function and service life of the product. Through the rational selection and addition of chemical additives, the plastics industry can achieve efficient production, reduce costs and improve competitiveness, further promoting the industry's technological progress and market development.