Plastic is so commonplace today that most people don’t stop to think that there may have been elements added to the plastic during manufacturing that make it as reliable as it needs to be. Now that you are considering plastic for your manufacturing, construction, or other needs, it is advisable to consider what additives would be beneficial to your specific applications. In fact, there may be many benefits of plastic additives you are not yet aware of.
The Transformative Impact of Plastic Additives
Incorporating additives into plastic manufacturing offers significant advantages that enhance the material’s performance and longevity. From improving processing efficiency to extending lifespan and reducing flammability, these enhancements are crucial for a wide range of applications. Below, we delve into the specific benefits of plastic additives, highlighting their role in improving processing, increasing durability, and ensuring safety in various environments.
Improved Processing
Plastic additives are often initially considered for improved processing. These additives are combined with the plastic to improve the material’s processability. Often, internal and external lubricants are added to offer flow enhancement and increased productivity, aid in mold release, and eliminate build-up.
Increased Life Span
Plastic is a versatile material, but it is prone to breaking down over time especially when exposed to UV light, oxygen, and high temperatures. The break down of the plastic can occur during manufacturing. Stabilizers can be added to the plastic to mitigate degradation. UV additives can be used to protect the plastic from UV light and antioxidant additives can be implemented to protect against oxidative degradation. Utilizing these stabilizing additives will extend the life of the plastic, making their use imperative in many applications.
Reduced Flammability
Flame retardant additives are very commonly used in electrical elements because they delay or even prevent combustion. There are different flame retarded additives, and they can be used in a variety of ways, including adding during processing or after processing as a final product. While plastic has been used without flame retardant additives for generations, where electricity and construction are concerned, the additive is an additional safeguard.
Embrace Far-Reaching Benefits with Plastic Additives
In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, there are antimicrobial benefits, corrosive applications, and so much more. With additives, plastic can be even more versatile than ever before.