Innovative low-bloom, anti-scratch additives that are ideal for automotive applications have been launched by UK-based Croda.
Automotive
The speciality chemical company has developed a new range of stable additives for use in plastics that reduce scratch width and visibility, while their superior stability results in reduced blooming on the surface making them a good fit for a range of applications where durability and aesthetics are key.
The use of plastics in the automotive industry is increasing as car manufacturers continue in their lightweighting mission. According to Plastemart, the global automotive plastics market is expected to grow at CAGR of eight per cent until 2018 reaching $41.5 billion (€37.7 billion, £26.9 billion). However, plastics naturally exhibit high friction and can scratch easily when transported or in end-use, resulting in a growing need for anti-scratch additives in the market. However, some of the currently available anti-scratch additives can cause visible blooming, haze, surface stickiness or odour issues. They can also affect the mechanical properties of the plastics.
Croda’s range of anti-scratch additives includes high stability products that work from within the formulation to enhance the surface properties of plastics. They can withstand challenging processing conditions and give long-term in-use performance in the finished parts. The low usage levels do not cause any detrimental effect on mechanical properties. The range includes Incroslip SL and IncroMold K for polypropylene impact copolymer and Incroslip G for polypropylene homopolymer applications. Croda’s team of technical experts are available to work with customers to choose the best product for them.
Croda’s Martin Read said: "We have undertaken a significant project in the area of anti-scratch so that we are able to advise our customers which product and addition level will give optimum performance in their formulation. We are continuing with this work and would like to engage further with our customers to continue this process and meet future needs in the area of anti-scratch for a wide range of plastics."