- 11 April 2007 -
PMB develops formulations to reduce warpage

To combat the potential contribution of additives and colorants to warpage and shrinkage in polymers, UK-based Performance Masterbatches (PMB) has developed masterbatch formulations that are said to minimize the impact of colorant on shrinkage and warpage by using organic pigments with a coating of inorganic pigments.

Inorganic pigments are hydrophilic with a polar surface and have no affinity for the polymer, no effect on crystallinity and as a consequence can reduce warping. However, they do not always have the properties required by end users – they can only be used to create a limited range of colours and have poor tint strength. Organic pigments offer greater aesthetic appeal, with a wider range of shades, bright colours and high tint strength but increase crystallinity, causing the moulding to shrink and warp. In combining the two types of pigment, PMB has been able to get the best of both worlds, reducing warpage at the same time as maintaining good aesthetics.

Performance Masterbatches Ltd; www.pmb.co.uk