Sustainability in Plastics Manufacturing: Using Process Aids to Reduce Environmental Impact

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Plastic materials used in environments prone to contamination with biomatter often incorporate antimicrobial additives. These additives play a crucial role in preventing the gradual deterioration of plastics caused by bacteria and similar factors. Here’s an overview of antimicrobial additives in plastic manufacturing and their significance.

How Plastic Process Aids Work

Plastic processing aids are additives designed to enhance the workability of plastics during manufacturing. They seamlessly blend in and become an integral material component. By modifying the properties of the plastic, these additives facilitate smoother manufacturing processes, ultimately contributing to environmental benefits.

Reducing Waste Production with Plastic Additives

Process aids play a significant role in plastics manufacturing, particularly in reducing waste production. One common issue faced in the industry is the occurrence of deformities in finished products. By incorporating process aids into plastics, finished products with deformations are significantly reduced, and this helps plastic waste generated during manufacturing.

Reducing Energy Consumption

Certain process aids can contribute to energy reduction in plastic production. By incorporating process aids, plastics exhibit increased softness, making them easier to mold into the desired shape. As a result, less time and pressure are required during the molding process, leading to energy savings. More efficient heating and molding steps reduce the overall energy consumption for plastic production.

Reducing Production Costs

Ultimately, any factor that improves the workability of plastic directly impacts reducing production costs. When plastic is easier to work with, it places less stress on machinery, decreasing maintenance requirements and lowering prices. Similarly, by optimizing the manufacturing process with plastic additives, energy costs can be minimized.

Different Types of Process Aids

There are several common types of process aids. These include:

Lubricants

Lubricants reduce friction between the plastic and the machines used to make it, and this reduces machine wear, reducing the need for repairs.

Antistatic Agents

Antistatic agents prevent plastics from developing an electric charge, which can cause problems in the manufacturing process. 

Antimicrobials

Antimicrobials prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in plastics, dramatically extending their lifespan, reducing the need for new plastics, and helping the environment. 

Help the Environment with the Right Process Aids

Plastic process aids are an effective means to enhance manufacturing while reducing pollution. By leveraging the expertise of Phoenix Plastics, you can achieve your project goals and actively contribute to environmental preservation. Contact Phoenix Plastics today for a quote on your next project and make a positive impact on the environment.

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Located in Conroe, TX, just north of Houston, Phoenix Plastics was founded in 1996 but our staff has more than 75 years of experience in the plastic industry. Our testing and processing takes place in-house, which allows Phoenix Plastics to maintain high quality standards. Phoenix Plastics is an ISO:9001 certified company.

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