Application of Polyethylene Wax in Masterbatch

Polyethylene wax is widely used in the masterbatch processing to enhance system performance and promote pigment dispersion. It is a common dispersant that improves pigment dispersion, which is crucial for high-quality masterbatch production. Pigment dispersion directly affects the coloring ability of the masterbatch, the quality of the final product, and coloring costs. Therefore, achieving good pigment dispersion is essential.

Masterbatch is a pigment concentrate that uses resin as a carrier. Pigments exist in three states: primary particles, aggregates, and agglomerates. The dispersion mechanism involves breaking agglomerates into aggregates and primary particles and then stabilizing these newly formed particles. This process is known as lubrication-breaking-stabilization. However, the high viscosity of the resin melt and its poor compatibility with pigment surfaces make it challenging to penetrate the pores of the agglomerates. To address this issue, polyethylene wax is added to the system.During the processing of the masterbatch system with polyethylene wax, the wax melts with the resin and coats the pigment's surface._[1]

Polyethylene wax has low viscosity and good compatibility with pigments, making it easier to wet pigments and penetrate the internal pores of pigment agglomerates.This weakens cohesion and facilitating the opening of pigment agglomerates under the influence of external shear forces. It also enables quick wetting and protection of new particles. Additionally, polyethylene wax reduces system viscosity and improves fluidity. Therefore, the inclusion of polyethylene wax in masterbatch production enhances efficiency, increases output, and allows for higher pigment concentrations.

To ensure the optimal processing and application of polyethylene wax in masterbatch, it is crucial to understand its mechanisms and properties. The polyethylene wax used in masterbatch should exhibit the following key characteristics:

High Thermal Stability:
Polyethylene wax must withstand the high temperatures involved in manufacturing and molding colored products without vaporizing or decomposing, which could harm the masterbatch or colored products.

Strong Dispersion Ability:
Polyethylene wax significantly enhances pigment dispersion, which is vital for the coloring ability of the masterbatch. Well-dispersed pigments result in a high tinting power and excellent product quality.

No Adverse Effects on Mechanical Properties:
It is essential to ensure that the polyethylene wax used in masterbatch does not negatively impact the mechanical properties of colored products, as masterbatch is widely used for coloring thin-walled products and colored films.

In summary, the polyethylene wax used in color masterbatch should possess high thermal stability, strong dispersion ability, and should not adversely affect the mechanical properties of colored products. Furthermore, under specific processing conditions, there is an optimal dosage range for achieving effective pigment dispersion in the masterbatch.

[1]. 郭良玉,刘大煜,吴立峰.聚乙烯蜡在色母粒中的应用探讨[J].塑料,1998(03):33-37.