Masterbatch composition

Abstract

A masterbatch composition is provided that includes a colorant, a thermoplastic carrier, a metallocene polymer processing aid, and optionally an additive. Also provided is a method for making a masterbatch composition and a method for making a colorized polymer.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates in general to masterbatch compositions having a colorant and optionally one or more additives, and a process for making the same.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Colorants such as pigment preparations are often produced for masterbatches. A masterbatch is a granular, dust-free concentrate of a plastomeric or elastomeric polymer comprising a fraction of a colorant. Masterbatches are used to color plastics, being added to the plastic to be colored prior to or during processing. Masterbatches are used because they provide better colorant dispersion than neat colorant.[0003]A variety of processes for producing masterbatches are known and the following processes are standard in the production of the masterbatches: a) the mixing of a suitable matrix (polymers) with the colorant; b) extrusion and kneading with subsequent grinding of the colorant concentrate; or c) extrusion and subsequent fine spraying, hot chopping, or strand pelle...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is about a new type of mixture that includes a colorant, a type of plastic, and a special chemical called a metallocene polymer processing aid. This mixture is made by mixing everything together and then applying heat and pressure to it to create a masterbatch. This masterbatch can then be used to create a colorized polymer by adding it to a type of plastic that can be melted and shaped. The result is a more efficient and effective way to create colorized polymers.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, known masterbatches have a relatively low colorant concentration.

Thus, it has been found that many known masterbatches have insufficient brilliance for high-quality applications.

Larger proportions of colorant cannot be used in known masterbatches due to insufficient dispersion.

Insufficient dispersion of the colorant particles can lead to a decrease in physical and mechanical properties of the end product, such as tensile strength, flexural modulus, elongation, and impact strength.

Additional problems due to insufficient dispersion include thread breakage during spinning and clogging filters of melt spinning equipment.

Accordingly, colorant concentrations have been limited in conventional masterbatches.

Another deficiency in known masterbatch compositions is the inability to include relatively significant amounts of additives such as ultraviolet light absorbers, light stabilizers, antioxidants, and blowing agents.

Otherwise, it is believed that the processability of the masterbatch would be impaired.

Yet another deficiency in known masterbatch compositions is the inability to significantly improve the processability of the masterbatch itself and of the end product.

Presently, there is no known system or method for providing a masterbatch composition that avoids the foregoing problems associated with conventional masterbatches.