MATERIALS.

Polyacrylate grades

Four polyacrylate grades have been added to the Acron AR line. Based on a chlorine/carboxyl cure mechanism, the Acron AR-500 series is said to offer easy processing and fast cure response. The Acron AR-500 line is also said to yield superb compression set compared with chlorine and epoxy curing types, according to the company. Similar to 4051 and 4052 type polyacrylates, the AR-500 grades are said to be available for evaluation soon. In addition to the AR-500 series, the line includes chlorine and epoxy cure polyacrylates, and trimercaptotriazine curing agent masterbatch. (Cancarb, P.O. Box 310, 1702 Brier Park Crescent N.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada T1A 7G1)

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PU curing agent

Polyurethane curing agent MOCA-DD, which chemically is 4 4' methylene bis-orthochloroaniline, is available through the company. MOCA-DD is said to represent an improved version of the standard MOCA product currently available on the market. MOCA-DD is said to be a high quality, double distilled product. The double distillation process renders the MOCA-DD virtually odor-free and yields a low color product. The coating on the extruded pellet form allows for a dust-free product. The low residual OCA content of MOCA-DD is said to be an additional benefit of this product. Although MOCA-DD is primarily known as a curing agent for polyurethane elastomers, MOCA-DD is also extensively used as a curing agent for epoxy and epoxy urethane resins, according to the company. (Rit-Chem, P.O. Box 435, Pleasantville, NY 10570)

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Low-cost carbon black

IRX 1046 carbon black is said to be a cost-effective carbon black that combines superior dispersion, high loading, excellent extrusion characteristics, high green strength and very low conductivity for a variety of hose, extrusion and molded applications, according to the company. Customers experiencing dispersion problems using ASTM N600 or N700 series carbon blacks should be able to find special value by selecting IRX 1046 carbon black, according to the manufacturer. IRX 1046 carbon black is said to result in very smooth surfaces and good elasticity in extruded profiles, which are said to be important for low-viscosity sponge, etc. (Cabot, Industrial Products, 1095 Windward Ridge Pkwy., Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30005)

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Chlorinated paraffins

Experience has shown fire-retardant systems based on Cereclor to be very cost effective, according to the company. Cereclor chlorinated paraffins cover a wide range of grades from relatively low viscosity to very high viscosity to very high viscosity liquids and one solid type. Cereclor often plays the dual role of fire retardant additive and plasticizer to replace process oils. Good flame resistance calls for high chlorine content, but plasticizing action is said to be greater with lower chlorine content. A typical compromise is to use a grade of Cereclor with between 52% and 65% chlorine, and the large Cereclor range normally gives sufficient scope to allow the selection of a type suitable for most applications, according to the company. The synergy of antimony oxide with Cereclor is said to be widely used in rubber, but despite its excellent flame suppressant properties, antimony oxide may suffer from the problem of promoting afterglow. This is said to be minimized by the addition of ca 5 phr calcium or zinc borate and 1 phr pentaerythritol. (H.M. Royal, 689 Pennington Ave., Trenton, NJ 08601)

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Mold releases

DiamondKote products are water-based, environmentally compatible, solvent-free mold releases designed for applications to ambient and hot metallic mold surfaces. They may be spray applied to ambient surfaces (with subsequent blow-drying by compressed air) or simply wiped on utilizing a pure cotton cloth. When applied correctly, DiamondKote will provide for multiple releases for many elastomeric compounds with the possible exception of silicone rubbers. Benefits of DiamondKote are said to include the following: environmentally compatible, water-based formulation; non-flammable formulation; multiple releases per application; excellent release-ease; non-transferring formulation; excellent for rubber to metal bond applications; improved part cosmetics; lower scrap rates; and quick curing. (Franklynn Industries, 167 Commerce Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45140)

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Flouroelastomer coating

Two high-performance flouroelastomer coatings have been developed to resist perchloroethylene (perc) penetration of concrete floors in dry cleaning establishments. Under recently enacted amendments to the Clean Air Act, dry cleaners are required to regulate perc emissions through equipment maintenance, monitoring and record keeping. PLV 2050 and PLV 2100 coatings have been formulated to help dry cleaners meet their responsibilities under the National Emission Standard Hazard Air Pollutants. PLV 2050 and PLV 2100 are liquid formulations from DuPont Dow Elastomers' Viton, a flourine-containing synthetic rubber which is said to be recognized for its exceptional performance in harsh environments. Independent test results have shown that Pelseal's PLV coatings resist attack by over 300 corrosive chemicals and liquids, and withstand temperature extremes of -40 [degrees] F to +400 [degrees] F (-40 [degrees] C to +206 [degrees] C). (Pelseal Technologies, LLC, 401 Lafayette St., Newtown, PA 18940-0309)

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Hot mold release agents

Based on Teflon chemistry, the company's PTFE water-based release agent is said to be ideal for molding of elastomers, including natural and synthetic rubber, EPDM, NBR, silicone, Viton and polychloroprene. It is also said to be suitable for most plastics and resins. The release agent activates at 212 [degrees] F and is designed for applications to molds which have been preheated to between 212 [degrees] F and 550 [degrees] F. There is said to be no discernible transfer or migration from the mold coating to the molded part. A low coefficient of friction provides outstanding lubricity, according to the company. The product is non-flammable and is available in both aerosol and bulk liquid forms. (Miller-Stephenson Chemical, George Washington Hwy., Danbury, CT 06810)

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EPDM masterbatches

EPDM-based rubber masterbatches are used by plastic and rubber compounders to produce thermoplastic elastomers. Kelprox XL products combine the company's expertise relating to Keltan EPDM with its proprietary knowledge relating to Sarlink thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs). This combination is said to have resulted in cost effective rubber masterbatches which have been dynamically vulcanized. Kelprox XL is said to provide compounders with a cost-effective way to produce thermoplastic vulcanizate compounds for a variety of elastomer applications, according to the company. Kelprox XL is said to address a growing market need by compounders interested in offering specialized blends utilizing thermoplastic vulcanizate products. Kelprox XL eliminates the requirements for compounders to develop complex and costly vulcanization technology, according to the company. Kelprox XL products are precrosslinked, therefore no additional vulcanization is required. (DSM Thermoplastic Elastomers, 31 Fuller St., Leominster, MA 01453-4451)

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Nylon polymer film

Dartek film is manufactured from nylon 6,6 polymer, the condensation of adipic acid and hexamethylene diamine. It is said to be an extremely tough, high temperature resistant film that can play a major role in the processing of rubber, for example in the calendering process or as a roll wrap. Dartek is said to be an effective barrier to gases, greases, oils and many chemicals which are important in applications where Dartek is the final product for example as a layer in hoses for vapor barriers. Dartek is available as a cast film (C917 and C1010) or oriented film (T4040 and T424) for increased toughness. It is available in widths from 1" to 88". Potential application areas include use in roofing and tire retreading, interleaving between layers of rubber sheeting to prevent the layers from sticking during the autoclaving process, and wrapping rolls of rubber, for example hoses, prior to autoclaving. Advantages of Dartek are said to include high temperature stability (melts at 510 [degrees] F) to withstand curing cycle; thin gauge (0.6-4 mil) for cost-effectiveness and reduced waste; good release; high strength to withstand application stress; cost-effective; good tear and puncture resistance; high tensile strength; and more. (H.M. Royal, 689 Pennington Ave., Trenton, NJ 08601)

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Thermoplastic elastomer

J-Soft represents a line of ultra-soft styrenic block copolymer (SEBS) TPE compounds which are said to offer product manufacturers a translucent, bondable, non-toxic, jello-like material with exceptional strength and elongation for a broad spectrum of product applications. The J-Soft line is available in four different general purpose and FDA grades. Hardness ranges from less than 3 Shore A, such as 00 Shore A, to 30 Shore A. Primarily injection molded, J-Soft will bond to various substrates, including polypropylene and polyethylene. Color options range from very bright to pastel. (J-Von, 25 Litchfield St., Leominster, MA 01453)

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Water-based coatings

Water-based coatings are available for automotive applications to protect glass-run channels or door seal weatherstrip. Used with a curative, Autoseal coatings are designed for application on a customer's current production lines to minimize downtime. These environmentally-friendly coatings are said to help customers meet government standards without giving up exceptional performance. Autoseal aqueous coatings are said to apply easily with good spray characteristics, according to the company. They can be used for either in-line extrusion of EPDM rubber or off-line assembly of weatherstrip seals that require different cure temperatures. The coatings' weather and abrasion resistance are said to be high, offering reduced coefficient of friction for improved slip and sound reduction. The coatings now available include Autoseal 3430, Autoseal 3431 and Autoseal 3432, functional coatings that offer strong adhesion to door seal and trunk lid weatherstrip, according to the manufacturer. All coatings are offered with a curative. (Lord, 111 Lord Dr., P.O. Box 8012, Cary, NC 27512-8012)

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Clean carbon black

IRX 1064 carbon black is said to be an exceptionally clean grade that offers advantages for critical automotive extrusion applications requiring a Class-A surface. The furnace carbon black is said to combine superior cleanliness with a unique morphology for surface-critical extruded rubber profiles. Its superior cleanliness is exhibited by its reduced micro-defect predictor (MDP) test results and very low level of contaminates, according to the company. Because of these properties, IRX 1064 carbon black is said to be helpful to customers who manufacture Class-A surface, zero-defect automotive applications such as window profiles, door seals and glass-run channels. (Cabot, Industrial Products, 1095 Windward Ridge Pkwy., Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30005)

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Heat transfer fluid

OR (oxidation resistant) heat transfer fluid is a non-fouling, non-toxic, high-efficiency, oxidation-resistant, food-grade heat transfer fluid that can be used to control process temperatures in a range of manufacturing and processing equipment. OR fluid is said to offer up to ten times the oxidation resistance of the nearest competitor, according to the manufacturer. Its high oxidation-resistant capability is said to make OR fluid an excellent choice for closed-loop thermal oil systems where heat transfer fluids are more than occasionally exposed to air. OR fluid is also said to provide the highest thermal efficiency (600 [degrees] F) of any natural hydrocarbon fluid available today, according to the company. The advanced formulation is said to exhibit extremely low viscosity. Within the rubber and plastics industries, OR fluid is typically used in machinery to precisely and uniformly control temperature (to within [+ or -] 1[degree] F) in molds, barrels, dies, screws, platens and calender rolls to 600[degrees] F. Under severe overheat conditions, OR fluid evolves carbon granules which remain in suspension and will not adhere to heated surfaces. Such granules that may evolve are said to be easily filtered out. (Paratherm, 1050 Colwell Rd., Conshohocken, PA 19428)

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Mold release agents

Aqualift products are water-based, environmentally compatible mold release agents designed for application to ambient and hot metallic mold surfaces (is greater than 140 [degrees] F). They may be spray applied to ambient surfaces (with subsequent blow drying by compressed air) or simply wiped on utilizing a pure cotton cloth. When applied correctly, Aqualift will provide for multiple releases of many urethane elastomer systems, according to the company. Benefits of Aqualift are said to include the following: environmentally compatible, water-based formulation; non-flammable formulation; excellent release-ease; improved production throughput; improved part cosmetics; and lower scrap rates. Service is provided by direct sales engineers. (Franklynn Industries, 167 Commerce Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45140)

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Perfluoroelatomers

The company is said to have expanded the capability of traditional perfluoroelastomers parts with the introduction of Kalrez Spectrum 6375 which is said to provide the broadest range of performance and value in harsh chemical processing environments. Kalrez Spectrum 6375 has enabled chemical processors to extend seal life, lengthen mean time between repairs and lower total operating costs, according to the company. Kalrez Spectrum 6375 is said to combine polymer technology with patented curing technology, allowing for a continuous upper-service temperature of 525 [degrees] F (275 [degrees] C), approximately 100 [degrees] F (56 [degrees] C) higher than that of other products claiming broad chemical resistance over all temperatures ranges, according to the manufacturer. This high temperature performance is said to guarantee longer seal life with less risk of unexpected seal failure. Kalrez Spectrum 6375 is said to be ideal for use in acids, bases, amines, steam, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and many other aggressive chemicals. Mixed streams, once a problem for many chemical processing applications, can now be handled by this product, according to the company. (DuPont Dow Elastomers, Wilmington, DE)

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Melt-processible rubber

Alcryn MPR (melt-processible rubber) is said to offer processing advantages over vulcanized rubber and thermoplastic elastomers. These ease-of-processing benefits, such as lower injection pressures, better knit line features and better flow characteristics that results in more uniform finish, are said to deliver considerable savings to manufacturers across a number of industries. With Alcryn MPR, manufacturers are said to maximize material purchases to save money and reduce waste. The true rubber properties of Alcryn MPR enable designers to replace many parts that use vulcanized rubber (product applications up to 125 [degrees] C), while retaining the same characteristics and reducing processing costs, according to the manufacturer. In addition, manufacturers that currently use only plastics in their products can incorporate Alcryn MPR into design, process the product on the same equipment and achieve the quality look, feel and performance of rubber. (Advanced Polymer Alloys, 3521 Silverside Rd., Quillen Building 2E, Wilmington, DE 19810)

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Elastomers

Therban FT (Fluoro-Thermoplast) developmental products, Therban FT VP KA 8850 and 8851, were designed to perform in high temperature fuel environments with excellent resistance to oxygenated fuels containing methanol, ethanol, MTBE, as well as sour gasoline. Providing higher compound extension and a lower finished part cost than other elastomers used in fuel environments, Therban FT is said to have excellent mill handling, extrusion and injection molding properties, according to the company. Said to be ideal for high-pressure, high-temperature environments where fuel exists, Therban FT is said to improve the performance of ASME pump diaphragms and o-rings for petrochemical operations. Therban HNBR is said to give products superior performance and durability in applications where extreme temperature, fuel, oil, ozone or abrasion exists. (Bayer, 100 Bayer Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9741)

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Amino resins

Amino resin technology is said to achieve equal or better wire adhesion and rubber coverage for tire applications without the addition of cobalt. Compared to conventional resin adhesion systems, experimental formulations developed by the company are said to reveal that wire adhesion and rubber coverage can be achieved using one-component modified melamine resins Cyrez 138 and Cyrez 132. In most cases, cobalt can be eliminated, and yet excellent physical properties, wire adhesion and rubber coverage are said to be achieved. (Cytec Industries, 5 Garret Mountain Plaza, West Paterson, NJ 07424)

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Additives

MOCA Light is a very light-colored extrusion of 4,4' methylene bis (2-chloroaniline). When reacted with TDI prepolymer, the mixture can be cast into a translucent product. Manufacturers of gears wheels, printing rollers, oil well pipe coaters, grain transportation pipe coaters and roller skate wheels are said to be potential users. (Rit-Chem, 109 Wheeler Ave., Pleasantville, NY 10570)

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Liquid elastomer resins

The company offers liquid homopolymer polybutadiene and random copolymer butadiene/styrene to enhance properties of UV/EB curable systems. Studies are said to reveal that the unsaturation contained within Ricon polybutadiene resins participates in the free radical curing reaction. This reaction is accelerated in the presence of methacrylates. These radiation curable elastomers can be incorporated into coating, adhesive or ink systems. (Ricon Resins, 569 24-1/4 Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505)

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Silicon glycol copolymer

Dabco DC5980 surfactant is a high-efficiency, non-hydrolyzable silicone glycol copolymer designed for use with all major liquid carbon dioxide blowing technologies for the production of flexible slabstock foam. This surfactant is said to provide good nucleation, a high degree of emulsification, excellent froth stability and good bulk stability to produce foams of fine, uniform cell structure without swirling patterns. (Air Products & Chemicals, 7201 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown, PA 18195-1501)

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Primer/coating system

MetalJacket is a metal treatment and primer/coating system for the rubber-to-metal parts. The MetalJacket system is said to offer simplicity, aesthetics and environmental performance. By eliminating zinc phosphatizing and simultaneously providing quick, safe, impenetrable corrosion resistance, the MetalJacket system will redefine current RTM bonding procedures, according to the manufacturer. The MetalJacket system's flexibility and unmatched resistance to fractures and abrasions are said to make it the most versatile product available today, according to the company. MetalJacket is also said to deliver a beautiful finish that requires no postpainting. MetalJacket will help create stronger, more durable RTM products than ever before, according to the company. (Lord, 111 Lord Dr., P.O. Box 8012, Cary, NC 27512-8012)

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Flame retardant powder

A white, odorless, crystalline powder, Amspec Low Smoke, is utilized as an effective flame retardant, according to the company. According to the NFPA, Amspec Low Smoke has a hazard rating of 0 (denoting minimal hazard) for flammability, as well as reactivity. The major chemical components of Amspec Low Smoke are antimony oxide, zinc oxide and calcium carbonate. Trace elements include lead, arsenic, iron and selenium. The advantages of Amspec Low Smoke are said to include the following: excellent NFPA hazard ratings, 0 for flammability, 0 for reactivity and 1 for health; considerably high melting point, decomposes at 500[degrees] C; fared extremely well in tests against both low smoke competitors, as well as zinc borate; tests have revealed no conditions that may contribute to its instability; and the fact that it is odorless, as well as its status as a non-fire hazard, distinguishes Amspec Low Smoke as an ideal flame retardant, according to the company. (H.M Royal, 689 Pennington Ave., Trenton, NJ 08601)

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HNBR compounds

Technology for high-temperature applications beyond the traditional limits of HNBR has been developed by the company. A heat-resistant Therban developmental product, Therban HT VP KA 8805, was developed to perform in temperatures up to 165 [degrees] C. Retaining more than 50% of its properties at 150 [degrees] C for up to or nearly twice as along as other HNBR compounds, Therban HT is said to be ideal for automotive parts that require superior performance in high temperatures, according to the company. Tests have shown that Therban HT technology enhances resistance to lubricating oils with aggressive additives, according to the manufacturer. Seals, hoses and belts made with Therban HT could last twice as long compared to parts made with other grades of HNBR. Using Therban is said to allow products to achieve superior performance and durability in applications where extreme temperature, fuel, oil, ozone or abrasion exists. (Bayer, 100 Bayer Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9741)

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Semi-permanent release

RR 1381 WB is a silicone resin emulsion semi-permanent release. RR 1381 WB is said to give outstanding results in very tough release applications. Applied to a clean mold, it is said to form a smooth, continuous film with good adhesion to the mold surface, according to the manufacturer. RR 1381 WB is for application to mold surfaces above 160 [degrees] F at the time of application. Benefits are said to include multiple releases, no transfer, no knit lines, cracks or splits, very low buildup and no VOCs or ODCs present. RR 1381 WB can be applied by spray, brush or wipe. The best method is said to be fine mist spray. RR 1381 WB should be stored at temperatures below 90 [degrees] F and protected from freezing. (Releasomers, P.O. Box 82, Bradfordwoods, PA 15015)

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Thermoplastic elastomers

VersaDamp 2000 thermoplastic elastomers are said to be ideal as anti-shock and anti-vibration mounts for compactly designed devices with limited isolator sway space. VersaDamp formulations can be adjusted to optimize damping performance or durometer or both. The materials are olefinic dynamic vulcanizates with a patent pending. They feature durometers ranging from 35 Shore A to 75 Shore A and have broad energy-absorption capabilities (peak loss factors ranging from 0.75 to 0.15) as well, according to the company. (E-A-R Specialty Composites, 7911 Zionsville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268)

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Epoxy resin compound

Polymer System EP51AO is a two-component, ceramic-filled, thermally conductive, electrically insulative epoxy resin compound designed for heat dissipative bonding, sealing and potting assemblies. The compound has been formulated to cure readily at ambient temperatures with a one-to-one mix ratio. (Master Bond, 154 Hobart St., Hackensack, NJ 07601-3922)

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Low viscosity EPDM

Keltan 2340A is said to achieve a narrow molecular weight distribution (MWD) while at the same time maintaining a high level of branching. The carefully engineered structure and composition of Keltan 2340A is said to satisfy physical properties usually seen with EPDMs having much higher Mooney viscosity. The special design of Keltan 2340A is said to ensure a high level of process consistency. The low polymer and compound Mooney viscosity of Keltan 2340A are said to establish a highly suitable grade for continuous extrusion of polymer rich compounds. The medium ENB content provides a high level of scorch safety, whereas the narrow MWD ensures high cure efficiency, according to the company. Keltan 2340A can also be used for injection and compression molding. Additionally, to improve processing and/or adjust compound Mooney viscosity, Keltan 2340A makes an ideal blend partner for EPDMs having high molecular weight, according to the manufacturer. Typical applications include high hardness profiles (30-45 Shore D), medium hardness profiles (60-80 Shore A), windshield wipers, brake parts and potable water seals. (DSM Elastomers Americas, P.O. Box 480, Addis, LA 70710-0480)

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Polymer additive

Fluoroguard is a colorless, odorless and chemically inert polymer additive based on fluorinated synthetic oil. This patented technology is said to improve properties of both thermoplastic and thermoset polymers by increasing abrasion resistance and making parts last longer. It is targeted for use in gears, bushings, automotive weatherstripping, footwear, o-rings, seals and polymer films, among other applications. Fluoroguard is said to internally lubricate parts to improve their mechanical performance without affecting their chemical properties. In addition, Fluoroguard eliminates marring and scratching of polymer surfaces such as SEBS and TPU. Fluoroguard is also said to offer processing benefits by improving melt flow and release properties, reducing machine torque and die buildup, and increasing extrusion rates. Because of its excellent thermal stability up to 300 [degrees] C, Fluoroguard can be incorporated into most polymers using conventional processing equipment, according to the company. (DuPont Performance Lubricants, Wilmington, DE)

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Precipitated silica

A precipitated silica allows rubber manufacturers to improve the overall performance of their rubber products easily and cost-effectively, according to the company. The highly dispersible silica, Ultrasil 7000 GR, is said to save up to 60% of compounding time compared to standard silica, resulting in doubling the capacity of existing mixers, according to the manufacturer. Comprised of a unique agglomerate structure, Ultrasil 7000 GR is more conducive to dispersion in rubber compounds than other commercially available silica products, according to the company. (Degussa-Huls, 65 Challenger Rd., Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660)

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