MATERIALS.

Water-based releases

Water-based Diamondkote mold releases are said to provide excellent release-ease for molders using difficult silicones and fluoroelastomers. Customers are said to report great slip properties with no transfer to the finished parts, as well as improved tool cleanliness and improved longevity. Diamondkote gives good performance on a variety of parts, according to the company, including spark plug boots, electrical insulators and high-temperature seals and gaskets. (Franklynn Industries, 167 Commerce Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45140)

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Elastomer for PVC blends

Epoxyprene 25 and 50 are available for blending with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products. Epoxyprene is an elastomer derived from chemical modification of natural rubber containing a unique set of properties offering high strength due to its ability to undergo strain crystallization, along with good glass transition temperatures and solubility parameters, according to the company. Benefits of using Epoxyprene 25 and 50 in blends with PVC are said to include: exhibits low water absorption; achieves good compression set; can produce low-density foam; ability to make a PVC/rubber composite; highly polar; improves flame resistance in rigid PVC/ENR films; adds a biodegradability component to a PVC product; functions as a polymeric plasticizer creating a higher melt viscosity in blends with PVC; enhances PVC flexibility and processability; and imparts better tear strength, chemical resistance and rigidity in the blend. (Guthrie Latex, 2555 N. Jackrabbit Ave., Tucson, AZ 85745-1206)

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Thermoplastic rubber

Santoprene thermoplastic rubber has been specified for the driveshaft boot on the Ford F-Series trucks. Switching to Santoprene rubber provided a part which assembles easier, weighs less, withstands higher temperatures and prevents contamination entering into the splined systems, according to the company. (Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P., 388 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44311-1059)

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EPDM elastomers

This manufacturer of thermal carbon black markets accelerators, antidegradants, furnace black and acrylic rubbers to complement its Thermax brand. EPDM elastomers are said to provide excellent resistance to ozone and oxygen, color stability, superior weatherability and good electrical properties, as well as low specific gravity and high capacity for extenders, according to the company. This manufacturer's range includes six polymers which vary in ethylene content, molecular weight and cure rate. Most of the grades are fast to ultra fast curing with ENB content from 6 to 10%. The EPDM is supplied in friable bales, which is said to provide easier mixing with lower energy consumption. (Cancarb Ltd., 1702 Brier Park Crescent N.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada T1A 7G1)

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Epichlorohydrin elastomer

Hydrin T3106 epichlorohydrin elastomer is said to provide fuel, oil and chemical resistance, superior low temperature flexibility at -48 [degrees] C and continuous high temperature service of 135 [degrees] C. This elastomer is said to extend the low temperature performance range of conventional epichlorohydrin offerings on the market today. This improvement is said to make Hydrin T3106 perfect in the development of extreme low temperature hoses, seals and ducts. In addition, the anti-static dissipative properties of Hydrin T3106 are said to make it an ideal candidate as the base polymer for charger and developer rolls in today's high performance laser printers, according to the company. (Zeon Chemicals, 4111 Bells Lane, Louisville, KY40211)

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Mold release agent

KantStik 91WX release agent is said to use the latest dry film technology for lubrication of molds. This product has been formulated with a polymeric-base material which can withstand high-temperature molding conditions well over 450 [degrees] F. KantStik 91WX is water-based, non-flammable and safe to use, providing a better working environment, according to the manufacturer. (Specialty Products, P.O. Box 306, Jersey City, NJ 07303-0306)

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Tertiary amine catalyst

A delayed action, tertiary amine catalyst has been developed for flexible molded foams. Dabco BL-53 catalyst is said to offer a variety of processing and performance benefits to manufacturers of flexible molded polyurethane foam, including a more open-celled foam with excellent dimensional stability, improved humid-aged and wet compression sets, extended master batch stability, excellent flow properties and reduced force-to-crush values, according to the company. Dabco BL-53 catalyst can be used as the blowing catalyst, with enhanced cell-opening, in all types of flexible molded polyurethane foam. The company offers a varied selection of performance additives to meet the diverse needs of flexible molded polyurethane foam systems. The company's gelation and blowing catalysts have been developed to provide the reactivity, flow and cure performance required in flexible molded systems. Silicone surfactants are also offered. (Air Products and Chemicals, 7201 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown, PA 18195-1501)

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Mold insulating material

GlasTherm is a thermal insulation material, said to be an excellent medium for holding in the heat in press molds. It is a fiberglass reinforced, mineral filled sheet bonded together with heat resistant thermosetting resins. The material does not contain any asbestos fibers. Two grades of GlasTherm include grade S, a general purpose sheet where continuous operating temperature does not exceed 425 [degrees] F, and grade HT, said to have superior heat resistance for applications with continuous use temperatures up to 550 [degrees] F. GlasTherm is designed with high compression strength properties of 45,000 psi (grade S) and 49,000 psi (grade HT), versus 14,000 psi for asbestos concrete and 2,350 psi for calcium silicate, according to the company. When inserted between the mold and press platen, the insulation offers a thermal conductivity of 1.8 (grade S) and 1.9 (grade HT). GlasTherm is said to provide cost savings to molders which are realized through reduction in steam and natural gas consumption, shorter start-up times, reduction in down times, increased cycle times and/or improved product uniformity. Sheets are available in sizes of 36" x 72" and 48" x 96", in thicknesses of .250, .375, .500, .750 and 1". (Dielectric, W141 N9250 Fountain Blvd., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051-1648)

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Urethane curative

Ethacure 100LC is a liquid curative, said to be the lowest-colored liquid aromatic diamine commonly available. Through special production techniques and the use of a proprietary stabilizer system (patent pending), the company is said to offer a product with a low initial color and increased color stability. The use of Ethacure 100-LC curative is said to often result in lower color in the final part, reduced pigment loading, easier color matching and increased shelf life. Applications include epoxy coatings, polyurethane and polyurea spray coatings. (Albemarle, Baton Rouge, LA)

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Rubber tackifier

Strukrez 220, a recently introduced tackifier for rubber compounds, is said to effectively improve green tack, while important properties such as tear strength and scorch resistance can be improved in some compounds, according to the manufacturer. (Struktol Company of America, 201 E. Steels Corners Rd., P.O. Box 1649, Stow, OH 44224-0649)

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Thermoplastic elastomers

Robinson Knife's Colourgrip line of kitchen tools and gadgets features colors and ergonomic grips made of Santoprene 8000 rubber. The grips are injection overmolded onto polypropylene and chemically bond to the substrate to ensure a watertight seal and long-lasting performance, according to the company. Santoprene 8000 rubber was said to provide higher temperature resistance, as well as a broader processing range than was experienced with other materials. It also is a high-flow product with good colorability, according to the company. Santoprene 8000 rubber grades are fully vulcanized, non-hygroscopic TPEs available in easy-to-color, high-flow injection molding, extrusion and FDA grades. (Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P., 388 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44311-1059)

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Water-based releases

The company's latest Diamondkote series of water-based mold release agents is said to provide excellent results in the molding of rubber-to-metal bonded parts. In the most recent production evaluations, molders were said to report improved demolding cycle times and better longevity, as well as great release-ease with no transfer of the mold release material to the finished part, according to the manufacturer. Samples and product information are available. (Franklynn Industries, 167 Commerce Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45140)

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Fluoroelastomer adhesive

An aerosol spray has been added to the company's line of high performance fluoroelastomer sealants, adhesives and coatings. PLV 2040 is available in a 12-fluid-ounce can, which combines a fluoroelastamer with a curative agent in a solution that is ready for instant application. As with other Series 2000 products, PLV 2040 is formulated from DuPont Dow Elastomer's Viton fluoroelastomer. The products are said to be ideally suited for applications where resistance to a harsh environment is crucial. PLV 2040 is capable of withstanding temperature extremes ranging from -40 to +400 [degrees] F and resisting attack by many corrosive chemicals and liquids, including oil, gasoline, hydraulic fluids, hydrocarbon solvents and sulfuric acid. PLV 2040 is also resistant to ozone, UV radiation, salt spray and fungal growth, according to the manufacturer. PLV 2040 is said to demonstrate superior tensile strength, elongation and abrasion-resistance. It has been used in such industrial applications as door gasket adhesives on industrial ovens, coatings for fuel injection hoses in automobiles, and adhesives for splicing and bonding rubber belts. (Pelseal Technologies, LLC, 401 Lafayette St., Newtown, PA 18940-0309)

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Rubber lubricant

A water-based lubricant has been developed for rubber applications. The product provides a clear, dry lubricant coating that adheres tenaciously to any surface. It can be used on processing equipment, as an insert lubricant and as a dry film coating on cured and uncured parts. It is chemically inert and thermally stable so that it will not contaminate or degrade rubber compounds and parts, according to the company. Lubricity and antistick properties are said to be provided in one product. Dirt, dust, powders and contaminants will not adhere to the coating. (McLube Division, McGee Industries, 9 Crozerville Rd., Aston, PA 19014)

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Custom fluoroelastomers

This company exclusively produces black and colored custom fluoroelastomer compounds and dispersions in a climate controlled environment. Compounds can be developed to meet customer processability and end use performance specifications using a fully equipped and full-service laboratory with the latest in rheology and processability testing capabilities. Formulation expertise and consultation is offered for the automotive, aerospace, oil field, chemical, environmental and other industrial application markets. Customer recipes can also be produced with exhaustive raw material traceability and quality assurance, according to the company. (Pinnacle Elastomeric Technology, 5336 BBS Way, Braselton, GA 30517)

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Urethane foam materials

Standard grades of Poron urethane foam materials have been approved for gasketing and flammability by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Poron materials are high performance foams, known for their outstanding resistance to compression set, according to the manufacturer. Low outgassing and flame retardant, they are used to manufacture gasketing, sealing and padding components for automobiles, appliances and other consumer and industrial products. Standard Poron urethane foams may now be used as components of electrical and electronic equipment where CSA approval is required to determine acceptability of the final assembly. Poron materials are said to be available in a firmness and thickness for nearly any high performance application. (Rogers, One Technology Dr., PO. Box 188, Rogers, CT 06263-0188)

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Non-water-based solvents

Three non-water-based solvents have been granted the Clean Air Solvent (CAS) Certificate, including OS-10, OS-20 and OS-30. The materials are produced from volatile methylsiloxanes, which are exempt from federal and California state VOC regulations. (Dow Corning, Midland, MI 48686-0994)

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Catalysts, surfactants

Four catalysts and surfactants for rigid foam have been developed. Dabco DC5598 silicone surfactant is said to enhance hydrocarbon kinetics in PIR boardstock and improve processing of gaseous blowing agents in R22 and 134a froth applications. Dabco DC5599 silicone surfactant is said to offer enhanced processing and foam physical properties in PIR boardstock applications, as well as improved handling and pumping ease due to its low freezing point and viscosity. Polycat 48 amine catalyst, a balanced blow/gel/trimerization catalyst, is said to offer improved dimensional stability at lower pack density and is recommended for k-factor critical pour-in-place applications. Polycat 18 delayed initiation amine catalyst, when used as a co-catalyst, is said to provide significant delay in reaction initiation with minimal effect on back end cure, and is recommended for use in rigid PIR boardstock, microcellular and integral skin applications to improve flow and miscibility of reacting mixtures, according to the manufacturer. (Air Products and Chemicals, 7201 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown, PA 18195-1501)

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Curative products

Ethacure 300 curative is used in such applications as cast elastomers, coatings, reaction injection molding and specialty adhesives, where it is a replacement for MOCA. The product is said to give excellent results in polyether and polyester prepolymers. In addition, Ethacure 300 curative can be mixed with the company's other liquid curative, Ethacure 100 curative, to obtain tailored reactivity and curing times. (Albemarle, Baton Rouge, LA)

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Acrylic elastomers

This distributor of polymers and chemicals for the rubber and plastics industries has introduced Noxtite, a line of acrylic elastomers said to have excellent characteristics, chemical resistance and processability. Noxtite is said to be particularly suited to the automotive industry, with applications in oil seals, gaskets, o-rings, hoses and anti-pollution components. It is suitable for other products in the rubber industry, and has additional applications in thermal insulating, conveyor belts, tank linings, rolls, adhesives, construction sealants and coating materials. Noxtite is said to offer a very wide range of service temperatures, from -35 [degrees] C to 180 [degrees] C (in some applications this range is said to be expanded to -40 to 200 [degrees] C). The elastomer is said to offer outstanding chemical resistance to hot petroleum-based oils and fats, fuel oils, engine oils, gear oils and torque converter oils, according to the manufacturer. It is also said to provide good ozone resistance and weatherability, low gas permeability, good water resistance, limited corrosiveness to metals and good processability. Noxtite can be used with a number of vulcanization systems, including AC-6, ammonium benzoate, PZ/TTFE, TCY and soap/sulfur. The company is warehousing a number of grades of Noxtite for immediate shipment anywhere in North America. In addition, the company can provide custom compounding of Noxtite for special applications and can include curing and accelerator packages. (Alcan Rubber & Chemicals, 3570 Executive Dr., Suite 102, Uniontown, OH 44685)

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Thermoplastic elastomer

The company's clear thermoplastic elastomer can be used as an alternative to silicone. The TPE material is said to have many of the favorable characteristics of silicone, but offers additional benefits which include a lower price, easier processability, recyclability and a clarity which is nearly optical in quality, according to the company. Specifically marketed to designers who work with silicone and other clear materials and would never have considered TPEs because of their previously perceived shortcomings, the Versaflex TPE alloys, and specifically the CL30 and CL40 series (denoting their respective Shore hardnesses) are claimed to be the clearest TPE products of their type on the market. All of the company's products are said to be highly stable and offer high levels of UV resistance. The CL series of Versaflex TPE alloys also are said to provide excellent surface feel and have especially favorable molding characteristics, whether the compounds are injection molded or extruded. Other grades available from the company include OM (overmolding) and LT (lightweight) grades. (GLS, 833 Ridgeview Dr., McHenry, IL 60050-7050)

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Melt-processible rubber

The Alcryn line of melt-processible robber (MPR) is said to exhibit better noise control properties and durability than either vulcanized rubber or thermoplastic rubbers for automotive parts used in applications under 125 [degrees] C (257 [degrees] F). In addition, Alcryn MPR is said to offer superior resistance to weathering, ozone, UV, oil, fuel and chemicals, and it can be processed on standard plastics machinery. Current applications for Alcryn include windshield and backlight lace, outer-belt strip and reveal moldings, door-latch seals, fuse holders, fuel filler gaskets and seat belt guides, and hinge bumpers. Engineers are also said to gain the benefits of standard plastics processing when replacing vulcanized robber with Alcryn MPR, according to the company. Alcryn MPR does not require vulcanization, pre-drying or any compounding prior to processing, and scrap can be recycled over and over with no detrimental effect on performance or appearance, according to the manufacturer. Alcryn MPR can be extruded, injection molded, blow molded, calendered, vacuum formed, over-molded on rigid substrates, and co-extruded with all forms of PVC. Alcryn MPR is also said to bond well to TPUs, copolyesters and PC/ABS alloys without adhesives. (Advanced Polymer Alloys, 3521 Silverside Rd., Quillen Bldg. 2E, Wilmington, DE 19810)

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Non-drip epoxy

Polymer Adhesive EP21ND is a two component epoxy adhesive for general purpose bonding formulated to cure at room temperature or more rapidly at elevated temperatures, with a one-to-one mix ratio, weight or volume. It is said to readily develop a high bonding strength of more than 3,000 psi at room temperature which, unlike that of many other epoxy adhesives, is relatively insensitive to mixing ratio or substrate cleaning procedures, according to the company. (Master Bond, 154 Hobart St., Hackensack, NJ 07601)

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Semi-permanent release

A complete product line of water-based, semi-permanent, dry film release coatings has been developed for the rubber industry. Developed for use with organic and silicone parts, they have proven to provide maximum release performance, durability, improved flow properties and excellent temperature stability, according to the company. They are suitable for use with peroxide and sulfur cured systems. The company's products are designed for use with all rubber processes, as well as the transfer, injection and compression molding of parts. The products have been field tested in tire, belting, hose and molding applications. Products are said to be user and environmentally friendly, containing no CFCs, ODCs, VOCs or solvents of any kind. They are available in aerosols, bulk concentrates and in ready to use formulations. Products for EPDM, butyl, silicone, fluoroelastomers, fluorosilicone, nitrile, HNBR, natural, polybutadiene, polychloroprene, CPE, isoprene, ECO, SBR, TPE, polyacrylate and NBR are available. (McLube Division, McGee Industries, 9 Crozerville Rd., Aston, PA 19014)

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Glass fiber reinforcements

ZetaMat three-dimensional glass fiber reinforcements have been designed specifically for making composites by closed molding processes. The 1000 Series mats are made of randomly-oriented continuous strands, while the 2000 Series combines unidirectional roving with randomly-oriented continuous strands. Each mat provides reinforcement in three dimensions. These mats are said to be particularly suited for vacuum infusion molding processes, and, with proper engineering and controls, for resin transfer, compression and cold press molding as well. Properties of finished laminates such as flexural modulus, and flexural, tensile and shear strengths, are said to be outstanding. (PPG Industries, One PPG Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15272-0001)

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Slabstock surfactants

Surfactants for flexible slabstock systems are available from the company. Dabco DC5940 surfactant, said to be a high-efficiency, wide processing latitude silicone that is flame retardant compatible, is also said to be an excellent foam stabilizer and is recommended for use in polyether conventional foam. Dabco DC5180, a medium efficiency silicone surfactant designed for application in Ultacel and Rest Easy Plus high resilient technologies, is said to provide excellent bulk stability of reacting mixture and enhanced cell regulation. (Air Products and Chemicals, 7201 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown, PA 18195-1501)

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Thermoplastic rubber

General Motors has specified the use of a nylon-bondable grade of Santoprene thermoplastic rubber in the air induction system of the GMT 800 truck platform. Use of Santoprene rubber in the air duct system is said to eliminate the need for a metal clamp, lowering the system's cost, weight and assembly time. (Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P., 388 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44311-1059)

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Blast cleaning media

A cubical virgin acrylic (Aero-Clean-AC) is offered in a variety of sizes ranging from 20 mesh to 12 mesh size U.S. standard sieve. The cubical media are guaranteed to be pure of any metal or heavy metal contaminants which is said to be much safer for delicate operations. Due to the nature of the manufacturing process, all particles are the same size with no wasteful small particles or fines and dust, according to the company. These media have been manufactured in response to many customers who have searched unsuccessfully for a pure nonpigmented non-scrap plastic media. (Maxi-Blast, 630 E. Bronson St., South Bend, IN 46601)

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Water-based coatings

A series of water-based anti-stick coatings has been developed for applications in belting, hose, tires, slugs, pellets, calendered goods, profiles and extruded products. These coatings are applicable for cured and uncured rubber compounds and parts. The coatings will provide a clear, colorless, dry film coating that will not contaminate the compound nor interfere with processing equipment, according to the company. Containing no silicone oil, powder, wax or heavy metal components, the water-based anti-stick products are said to provide superior anti-stick properties while improving part appearance. Housekeeping problems and disposal problems are said to be eliminated. These products are said to be user and environmentally friendly, containing no VOCs, CFCs, ODCs or solvents of any kind. (McLube Division, McGee Industries, 9 Crozerville Rd., Aston, PA 19014)

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Cementable films

Cementable fluoropolymer film technology is available from the company. As an extension of its broad line of high performance films, the first film in this product line is Korton FEP, Type C. This technology allows product designers to put the performance of fluoropolymers on the surface of any product, according to the company. Manufacturers with coating or laminating capabilities are said to find that these films readily accept standard adhesives and cements for bonding to virtually any plastic, elastomer or metal surface. Korton FEP Type C film is used for casting surfaces, allowing a durable thermal bond to elastomers. (Norton Performance Plastics, 150 Dey Rd., Wayne, NJ 07470-4699)

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Surfactant-free latex resin

Pliotec LS surfactant-free latex resins are said to improve water- and chemical-resistance of metal primers, top coats and monocoats. Conventional water-based resins require surfactants, soap-like materials, for stabilization during manufacturing, according to the company. Surfactants can inhibit paint-to-metal adhesion and increase paint sensitivity to water, which can accelerate moisture migration and rust, according to the manufacturer. Pliotec LS technology is said to eliminate the need for surfactants in the manufacturing process, making paints formulated with it very corrosion resistant and ideal for metal surfaces, according to the company. (Goodyear Chemical, 1144 E. Market St., Akron, OH 44316-0001)

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Thermoplastic olefin

Volkswagen's Beetle features front and rear bumper fascias injection molded of Dexflex 162HF thermoplastic olefin material. The target material for this application featured low-temperature impact resistance, a good coefficient of linear thermal expansion and painted durability. VW's production material also has a high melt-flow rate, which provides processing advantages to the molder, according to the company. The melt-flow rate of this Dexflex thermoplastic olefin measures 15 g/10 min. The flow characteristics allow the molding of parts on smaller presses, reducing initial capital costs. (Solvay Engineered Polymers, 1200 Harmon Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326)

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Purging compounds

Dyna-Purge C high-performance purging compounds are thermoplastic blends designed to save processors time and money by cleansing processing equipment, according to the company. DynaPurge C is specially formulated for use with injection molding and extrusion machines processing clarity or high-transparency resins at 400 [degrees] to 590 [degrees] F (204 [degrees] to 310 [degrees] C). Applications include automotive light lenses and reflectors, consumer appliances, cosmetic parts, packaging and other products. Dyna-Purge C compounds have been field tested for quality and performance, and are said to eliminate the drag or haze associated with resins changeovers. The company reports that regular use of Dyna-Purge C also reduces carbon buildup and deposits, minimizing scrap generation. Dyna-Purge C is reported to be easier to use than other products, as it is supplied in a ready-to-use form requiring no mixing. It is heat stable, will not degrade and has unlimited shelf life. Since less Dyna-Purge C is needed for each purging application, the product is said to last longer, offering a greater value than conventional compounds, according to the company. Cleaning action is described as different from that of other purging products. The compound does not melt completely; instead it scrubs and pushes its way through the screw and barrel system, purging thoroughly on the first run, according to the manufacturer. (Shuman Plastics, 35 Neoga St., Depew, NY 14043)

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Aqueous coating sealants

Recently developed products upgrade the company's existing offerings for automotive sealing, and are said to also ensure environmental compliance to the global market. Autoseal adhesives and coatings feature weatherstrip coatings, flock adhesives, and interior and exterior plastic coatings, all in compliance with environmental regulations. The Autoseal adhesives and coatings product line includes aqueous weatherstrip coatings for window channels and door seals, a high-solids flock adhesive system said to have excellent adhesion to EPDM, Autoseal's UV-cure PVC coatings said to provide excellent resistance properties and flexibility in a spray system, and waterborne TPU coatings for automotive interior applications. (Lord, 2000 W. Grandview Blvd., PO. Box 10038, Erie, PA 16514-0038)

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