Method for the manufacture of bio-based, high-performance additives for plastics processing

Description

BE2024 / 5965 2 suspension thickener, which adds further complexity to the development and application of such additives. The present invention aims to find at least one solution to some of the above-mentioned problems or disadvantages. The purpose of the invention is to provide a method which eliminates these disadvantages. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention concerns a method for manufacturing a fatty acid ester-10 based additive suitable for plastics processing. The method involves preheating in a storage tank, pumping to a mixing vessel, and mixing in the mixing vessel into a homogeneous mixture, with the stirrer positioned at the side of the vessel. The additive consists of a homogeneous mixture of at least 0.1 m² fatty acid ester and at most 30 m² mineral oil. The stirrer is positioned laterally and optimizes the mixing quality, while the use of an external pump ensures consistent product quality. Preferred forms of the device are given in conclusions 2 to 4.20 In a second aspect, the invention concerns a fatty acid-based additive suitable for plastics processing. The additive is a homogeneous mixture of at least 0.1 m% of a fatty acid ester and at most 30 m%. The fatty acid ester is derived from a natural oil. Preferred forms of the device are set out in claims 6 to 13.25 DETAILED DESCRIPTION 30 Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as they are generally understood by the skilled professional in the technical field of the invention. 35 For a better assessment of the description of the invention, the following terms are explicitly explained. 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 3 to both the singular and the 5 quantity, a parameter, a duration or moment, and the like, then variations are meant of + / - 20% or less, preferably + / - 10% or less, more preferably + / - 5% or less, even more preferably + / - 1% or less, and even more preferably + / - 0.1% or less of the cited value, insofar as such variations apply in the described invention. However, this must be understood to mean that the inclusive or open terms which indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, features, elements, members, steps, known from or described in the standard of the art. The citation of numerical intervals by the endpoints includes all integers, fractions and / or real numbers between the endpoints, including these endpoints. In the present invention, the term 'fatty acid ester-based additive' refers to an additive which consists mainly of fatty acid esters, derived from natural oils, and which is used to improve the properties of synthetic materials. In the present invention, the term 'plastics processing' refers to the process of processing plastics whereby polymer / plastic can be converted into a product.The entirety of industrial processes in which polymers are converted into usable products by means of techniques such as injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, or thermoforming. These processes encompass the melting, forming, mixing, or curing of plastics to achieve specific mechanical, chemical, or visual properties. Plastics processing is applied in a wide range of sectors, including packaging, construction, the automotive industry, and electronics. This process encompasses the use of various additives to achieve desired properties such as flexibility, stability, and viscosity, as well as specific processes such as extrusion to further optimize the structures and properties of plastic products. In the present invention, the term 'fatty acid ester' refers to a compound formed by the reaction of a fatty acid with an alcohol, often a methyl group in the present invention, resulting in an ester bond.The fatty acid chains can vary in length and saturation, ranging from C7 to C22 carbon atoms, and can be either saturated or unsaturated. The term 'mineral oil' refers to a refined petroleum product, such as petroleum oil solvent / white spirit or the like, which is used in combination with fatty acid esters to form the additive. It is present in the composition in amounts not exceeding 30 mass percent (m%). The term 'homogeneous mixture' refers to a uniform mixture of components, namely the fatty acid esters and mineral oil, which is achieved by a controlled mixing process using an external pump and a laterally placed stirrer to prevent vortex formation. In the present invention, the term 'inert gas atmosphere' refers to an environment in which an inert gas is used to displace oxygen, thereby preventing oxidation during the mixing process.The term 'kinematic viscosity' refers to the measure of the internal resistance of a fluid to flow under the influence of gravity, expressed in 25 square millimeters per second (mm² / s) at a specified temperature, such as 40°C. The term 'flash point' refers to the lowest temperature at which the vapors of a volatile material will ignite when an ignition source is present,30 measured according to DIN NISO 2592:2018-01. In the present invention, the term 'freezing point' refers to the temperature at which a liquid becomes solid, where the process of melting and solidification is central. 35 The term 'C16 fatty acid' refers to a fatty acid with a carbon chain length of 16, specifically palmitic acid (R1=C15H31). 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 5 The term 'C18 fatty acid' refers to fatty acids with a carbon chain length of 18, which can vary in saturation levels: without double bonds (stearic acid, R1=C17H35), with one double bond (oleic acid, R1=C17H33), with two double bonds (linoleic acid, R1=C17H31), and with three double bonds (linolenic acid, R1=C17H29).5 a specific component, expressed as a percentage of the total mass of the mixture or solution in which the component is located. It is calculated by dividing the mass of the component in question by the total mass of the system, and multiplying the result by 100. This unit is used to accurately and simply describe the relative quantity of a substance in relation to the total. In the present invention, the term 'loss' refers to the decrease in mass of the additive after exposure to 180°C for 5 minutes, during which 20 g of the additive evaporates in a petri dish. The term 'natural oil' refers to oils derived from organic sources, including, but not limited to, soybean oil, palm oil, olive oil, tall oil, linseed oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, rapeseed oil, jatropha oil, algae oil, coconut oil, corn oil, and tung oil, which are used as precursors for the fatty acid esters in the additive.25 In a first aspect of the invention, it concerns a method for manufacturing a fatty acid ester-based additive suitable for plastics processing. In a further implementation form, it concerns a method for manufacturing a fatty acid ester-based additive suitable for plastics processing comprising a minimum of 0.1 m% of a fatty acid ester and a maximum of 30 m% of a mineral oil. In a further form of execution, the procedure involves preheating the fatty acid esters in a first storage tank and preheating the mineral oil in a second storage tank. Pumping the fatty acid esters from the first storage tank to a mixing vessel and pumping the mineral oil from the second storage tank to the mixing vessel. Subsequently, mixing the fatty acid esters and mineral oil in the mixing vessel using an external pump and an agitator to form a homogeneous mixture comprising the fatty acid esters and mineral oil.2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 6 This method involves preheating fatty acid esters in a first storage tank and mineral oil in a second storage tank, followed by pumping these components into a mixing vessel. Mixing is carried out using an external pump and a side stirrer, which is strategically positioned to prevent vortex formation and ensure efficient mixing. The possibility of performing the mixing process in an inert gas atmosphere, at temperatures of 15-20°C, offers additional advantages in terms of product stability and safety. The method also offers flexibility regarding the composition of the additive. Through variations in the ratio of fatty acid esters and mineral oil, as well as the selection of specific fatty acid chains, the additive can be optimized for various applications in plastics processing. For example, by adjusting the ratio of fatty acid esters between 0.1% and 30m%, the additive can be specifically tailored to the desired viscosity, flexibility, and stability of the final product.In a preferred form of execution, the process for manufacturing the fatty acid ester-based additive includes a step 15 of mixing at stable temperatures, which is preferably between 5°C and 25°C, more preferably between 10°C and 20°C, even more preferably between 12°C and 18°C, even more preferably between 14°C and 16°C, and most preferably exactly 15°C. Mixing at stable temperatures can optionally significantly improve the stability of the final product by minimizing the risk of thermal degradation. 20 This temperature control can also contribute to the homogeneity of the mixture, which promotes a consistent final product. Preferably, the mixture contains at least 0.1m% fatty acid ester, where the concentration of the mineral oil is a maximum of 30m%. Optionally, the additive may also contain specific fatty acid chains, such as C16-C18 and C18:1-3, which contribute to the thermal and chemical stability25 of the additive.In summary, this invention offers an efficient and versatile method for manufacturing a fatty acid ester-based additive that offers significant advantages for plastics processing. The combination of preheating, controlled mixing, and the option for an inert gas atmosphere ensures a high-quality product that meets the requirements of modern industrial applications. 35 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 7 It is also possible that the fatty acid esters and mineral oil are preheated prior to mixing. The preheating temperatures can preferably be between 20°C and 80°C, more preferably between 30°C and 70°C, even more preferably between 40°C and 60°C, even more preferably between 45°C and 55°C, and most preferably exactly 50°C. This preheating can improve the solubility and miscibility of the components, which contributes to the overall efficiency of the process and the quality of the end product. In a further preferred configuration, the mixing process can be carried out using an external pump and a stirrer positioned laterally.This design can preferably help prevent vortex formation, which can improve the homogeneity of the mixture. The speed of the mixing process can optionally vary, with preference given to a speed sufficient to achieve uniform mixing without causing excessive turbulence. In an even further preferred form of execution, the method is characterized by the fact that mixing in the mixing vessel has a mixing time of approximately 45 minutes. This time is specifically tailored to the requirement to pump the total production quantity through completely in one go while continuous mixing takes place. This process ensures that the entire contents of the mixing vessel are handled evenly, leading to optimal mixing of the ingredients and uniform quality of the final product. The fact that the total quantity is pumped around in one go has several advantages.On the one hand, this significantly increases mixing efficiency, because all ingredients remain in motion throughout the entire mixing time, which prevents segregation and produces a consistent mixing result. On the other hand, the process duration is optimized, because the pumping and mixing times are seamlessly synchronized, which minimizes time loss and increases throughput capacity.30 During mixing, only the pump pressure and pump speed are monitored as critical process parameters. By monitoring these parameters, it is guaranteed that the contents of the vessel are circulated in a constant and controlled manner, which is crucial for achieving a homogeneous mixing result. All other parameters, such as product properties (e.g., viscosity, density) or temperature, are only monitored after the completion of the mixing process 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 8. This minimizes the complexity of the mixing process itself and establishes the emphasis on the crucial elements that directly influence the mixing.Simplifying process control during mixing offers further benefits, such as a lower risk of technical malfunctions and simpler process monitoring. By focusing solely on pump pressures and pump speeds during mixing, the system remains reliable and user-friendly, while still being able to deliver a consistently high-quality mixing result. In a further preferred configuration, the additive can be produced by preheating the fatty acid esters and mineral oil in separate storage tanks, after which they are pumped into a mixing vessel. The mixing process can preferably be carried out using an external pump and a stirrer positioned laterally to prevent vortex formation. It is also possible to carry out the mixing process in an inert gas atmosphere to minimize oxidation of the components. The temperature during mixing can preferably be between 15°C and 20°C, although other temperature settings can also be considered depending on the specific requirements of the application.20 The choice of an external pump and a side stirrer in this method offers significant advantages over traditional mixing methods. The external pump ensures a controlled supply of the components to the mixing vessel, while the side stirrer promotes an even distribution of the components. This results in a consistent and reproducible product quality, which is essential for the industrial production of plastic additives. Moreover, the strategic positioning of the stirrer reduces energy consumption during mixing, which contributes to the overall efficiency of the process. 30 In another form of implementation, the invention comprises a method whereby mixing in the mixing vessel takes place in a heated room with a mixing temperature in the mixing vessel of approximately 15°C-25°C. Preheating the fatty acid esters and mineral oil is a critical step in the method, because it reduces the viscosity of the components and improves miscibility.The preheating can be carried out at different temperatures, depending on the specific requirements of the application. Although the invention specifies that mixing takes place at temperatures of 15-25°C, the preheating of the 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 9 components can take place at temperatures preferably between 10 and 30°C, more preferably between 12 and 28°C, more preferably between 14 and 26°C, and most preferably between 15 and 25°C. In an invention, the invention concerns the fact that mixing in the mixing vessel takes place in an inert gas atmosphere. Another important aspect of the invention is the possibility to carry out the mixing process in an inert gas atmosphere. This offers advantages in terms of oxidation prevention and increases the safety of the process, especially when volatile or reactive components are used. The inert gas atmosphere can be realized by flushing the mixing vessel with an inert gas before mixing begins, and by maintaining a slight overpressure of inert gas during the mixing process.The inert gas atmosphere can preferably be maintained by a continuous supply of inert gas, whereby the pressure and volume of the gas are carefully regulated. This can contribute to minimizing exposure to oxygen, which can further reduce the oxidation of the fatty acid esters and mineral oil. In a preferred form of implementation, the mixing process includes an inert gas atmosphere to reduce oxidation during mixing, which increases the quality and lifespan of the additive. The use of an inert gas atmosphere is preferably aimed at improving the chemical stability of the additive. This can optionally result in a reduction of oxidation and the prevention of air entrapment, which could otherwise cause undesirable physical effects. The inert gas atmosphere can preferably be achieved by adding an inert gas phase to the mixing vessel, whereby the mixing process takes place under a controlled atmosphere.The mixing process can optionally take place at temperatures preferably ranging from 10°C to 29°C, more preferably from 12°C to 26°C, even more preferably from 14°C to 25°C, and most preferably from 15°C to 25°C. This temperature control can contribute to the preservation of the physical and chemical properties of the components. In a further preferred execution, mixing can take place in a controlled environment, such as an inert gas atmosphere, to minimize oxidation of the components and maximize the stability of the additive. This can preferably be combined with maintaining mixing temperatures between 15 and 25°C, with more preference given to a temperature of 18 to 22°C, even more preference to 19 to 21°C, and most preference to exactly 2°C. 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 10 In another preferred form, the composition of the additive can be further optimized by selecting specific fatty acid esters and mineral oils that are compatible with the inert gas atmosphere.This can optionally result in improved viscosity stability of the end product, making the additive particularly suitable for high-performance plastics processing applications. 10 In one design, the invention concerns a method in which the stirrer is positioned at an angle of 20°±5° with respect to the transverse plane of the mixing vessel. Furthermore, the use of an external pump and a laterally positioned stirrer in the mixing vessel may be preferred to promote efficient15 mixing of the fatty acid esters and mineral oils. In alternative designs, the stirrer can also be placed at other angles, such as 15°±3° or 25°±4°, depending on the specific requirements of the mixing process and the properties of the substances to be mixed. The specific positioning of the stirrer at an angle with respect to the transverse plane of the mixing vessel offers20 significant technical effects and advantages for the mixing process. By placing the stirrer at an angle, for example 20°±5°, an asymmetrical flow is created in the mixing vessel.This promotes turbulence in the mixture, allowing the ingredients to be mixed more efficiently and evenly. It minimizes so-called "dead zones," where the flow stagnates and mixing is insufficient, which is essential for obtaining a homogeneous product. An additional technical effect is that the angled positioning of the stirrer creates three-dimensional flow dynamics, stimulating both radial and axial mixing movements. As a result, the entire volume of the mixing vessel is effectively mixed, including hard-to-reach areas such as the edges and the bottom of the vessel. This results in a uniform distribution of the components and prevents segregation, which is of crucial importance when mixing substances with different viscosities or densities, such as fatty acid esters and mineral oil. Additionally, the angled positioning has a beneficial effect on the energy balance of the process.Due to the improved flow patterns, the same mixing quality can be achieved with lower stirring speeds and less energy consumption, which reduces operational costs. Furthermore, this configuration reduces the mechanical load on the stirrer and the mixing vessel, which extends the service life of the equipment. Moreover, the use of an external pump and a laterally positioned stirrer in the mixing vessel may be preferred to promote efficient mixing of the fatty acid esters and mineral oils. The speed of the mixing process can preferably vary from 50 to 300 revolutions per minute, more preferably from 100 to 250 revolutions per minute, even more preferably from 150 to 200 revolutions per minute, and most preferably exactly 175 revolutions per minute.10 In a preferred configuration, the addition includes an optimization of the stirring speed to obtain a homogeneous mixture, which contributes to the improvement of the quality of the final product.Optimizing the stirring speed can optionally be achieved by using an external pump and a side stirrer,15 which together ensure efficient mixing of the fatty acid esters and mineral oil. Preferably, the stirring speed can be adjusted within a range of 50 to 200 revolutions per minute (rpm), with a speed of 75 to 150 rpm being preferred, 100 to 125 rpm even more preferred, and a speed of exactly 110 rpm most preferred.20 The use of a side stirrer can preferably prevent the formation of vortices, which contributes to an even distribution of the components in the mixture. This even distribution can optionally improve the consistency of the additive, resulting in more predictable and reliable performance in plastics processing applications. Furthermore, a homogeneous mixture can lead to a reduction in the variability of the physical properties of the end product, such as viscosities and flexibility, which benefits the overall product quality.30 By optimizing the stirring speed and mixing conditions, the additive can optionally be adapted to specific plastics processing applications, thereby offering a versatile and efficient solution for improving the performance of plastic products. This approach offers a significant improvement in the quality and consistency of the end product, which strengthens the value and usability of the additive in commercial applications. 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 12 In a second aspect of the invention, the fatty acid ester-based additive comprises a homogeneous mixture of at least 0.1m% fatty acid ester and at most 30m% mineral oil, which contributes to the improved processing of plastics. In a further execution form, the fatty acid ester-based additive comprises a homogeneous mixture of at least 0.1 m% and a maximum of 30 m% mineral oil where the fatty acid esters are derived from a natural oil selected from the group consisting of soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, olive oil, tall oil, linseed oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, jatropha oil, algae oil, coconut oil, corn oil, tung oils and mixtures of two or more thereof. This natural origin not only contributes to the sustainability of the additive, but also reduces dependence on fossil fuels, which has a significant impact on the environmental friendliness of the production process. Regarding the composition, it is important to note that the percentage of fatty acid esters and mineral oil can vary within specific ranges to meet different application requirements. For example, the percentage of fatty acid esters can vary from 0.1 m% to 10 m%, preferably from 0.5 m% to 8 m%, more at preference from 1m% to 6m%, more preferably from 2m% to 5m%, and most preferably from 3% to 4m%.Similarly, the percentage of mineral oil can vary from 5 m% to 30 m%, preferably from 10 m% to 25 m%, preferably from 15-20 m% to 20 m%, preferably from 18 m% to 20 m%, and most preferably from 19 m% to 20 m%. In a preferred version, the additive concerns a fatty acid ester-based mixture comprising a homogeneous mixture of at least 0.1 m% fatty acid esters and a maximum of 30 m% mineral oil. The use of natural oils in this composition contributes to a reduction of the ecological footprint and promotes sustainable development. The fatty acid esters, preferably derived from natural oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, and others, offer improved continuity in the distribution of fatty acid chains. This leads to lower moisture absorption capacity, lower odor production, and better aesthetics, which the increases reliability and quality in formulation processes. Furthermore, the additive can preferably be formulated with a bio-based content of more than 30%, which contributes to the sustainability of the end products.This bio-based content can help reduce the ecological footprint of plastic products, which is in line with the growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable materials in the industry. The use of natural oils as a raw material for the 35 fatty acid esters also supports the development of greener and more sustainable production methods 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 13 In a design, the invention comprises a fatty acid ester-based additive suitable for plastics processing in which the fatty acid ester has a structure with the general formula: R1-COOR. Where R1 is an alkyl chain with 12 or 22 carbon atoms, with 0, 1, 2 or 3 double bonds; a methyl group. Where the fatty acid esters are present in the following mass percentages: a C16 fatty acid (R1=C15H31):5-40.0m%;a C18 fatty acid without double bonds(R1=C17H35):2-77.0m%;a C18 fatty acid with one double bond(R1=C17H33):17-72.0m%;a C18 fatty acid with two double bonds(R1=C17H31):6.0-60m%;and a C18 fatty acid with three double bonds(R1=C17H29):4-20m%.The use of long-chain fatty acid esters, such as C16-C18 and C18:1-3, results in a significant increase in the mechanical strength of the plastic products. These chains improve the flexibility and stability of the plastics, leading to products with longer service lives and better performance under various conditions. Furthermore, long chains minimize the number of volatile components, making the additive particularly suitable for applications where mechanical strength, durability, and low emissions are crucial. An important advantage of the additive is the low volatile emission, mainly due to the non-volatile fatty acids present in the composition. This contributes to a reduction in the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which not only benefits product integrity but also promotes environmental friendliness. This makes the additive ideal for use in environments with strict environmental regulations and standards. Furthermore, the additive can preferably be adapted to changing ambient temperatures, such as those in late winter and summer.This adaptability makes it possible to maintain consistency and quality of the plastic products, regardless of environmental conditions. This is an important advantage in regions with seasonal temperature variations, where the performance of plastics can vary depending on the temperature. In a preferred form, the fatty acid ester-based additive is suitable for increasing the viscosity of the molten polymer during the melting of a polymer. The composition of the additive is optimized in such a way that it optimizes the viscosity of polymer melt formulations and reduces gelling time. This is particularly advantageous in industrial applications where speed and efficiency of the production process are of great importance. The viscosity improvement ensures better processability and a more uniform distribution of fillers within the polymer matrix, resulting in a more homogeneous end product. In a further preferred version, the additive can also contribute to improved flexibility of the end product.The flexibility can preferably be adjusted by varying the concentration of fatty acid esters within the additive, where a higher concentration generally leads to greater flexibility. This can be particularly advantageous for applications where a high degree of flexibility is desired, such as in flexible PVC products. In a preferred form, the additive comprises a structure that contributes to improved compatibility with different polymer formations, thereby optimizing both processing and the properties of the end product. Optionally, this structure can be modified to promote specific interactions with polymers, resulting in more efficient processing and improved mechanical properties of the resulting plastic products. The structure of the additive can preferably be optimized by adjusting the ratio of fatty acid esters to mineral oil, where the fatty acid esters are preferably derived from natural sources.This adjustment can lead to an improved dispersion15 of the additive in the polymer formulation, which in turn can result in a more homogeneous end product. In a more preferred formulation, the ratio of fatty acid esters can vary from a minimum of 0.1 m% to a maximum of 30 m%, where any value within this range can be a target value, depending on the specific applications and the desired properties of the end product. Preferably, the20 concentration of the additive in the polymer composition lies between 0.1 m% and 30 m%, more preferably between 1 m% and 25 m%, even more preferably between 5 m% and 20%, and most preferably between 10 m% and 15 m%. These concentrations ensure that the benefits of the additive are maximized without compromising the integrity of the polymer. In a further preferred formulation, the25 additive can also reduce the volatile emissions of the polymer product, which contributes to cleaner reproduction environments and improved air quality.This makes the additive particularly attractive for use in applications where low emissions are of crucial importance, such as in the production of medical equipment or consumer products. In a preferred formulation, the additive retains its structure and functions even at high temperatures, which contributes to the durability and performance of plastic products in thermal applications. This additive is preferably formulated to offer faster viscosity adjustment in PVC applications. This property is particularly advantageous in production processes where time efficiency is of crucial importance. By quickly adjusting the viscosity, manufacturers can increase production speed without compromising the quality of the end product. Furthermore, the additive preferably reduces the emission of toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This aspect is of great importance for improving the safety of working environments and the reducing health risks for employees who handle these materials.The additive can meet strict safety requirements that are increasingly imposed by regulations and industry standards. The additive is preferably designed to be flexible in its application, which means that it can be integrated into various plastics processing processes. This makes it a versatile option for manufacturers looking for ways to optimize their production processes while simultaneously meeting environmental standards. The thermal stability of the additive is another important advantage. In a preferred version, the additive can exhibit a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at temperatures up to 180°C. This makes it particularly suitable for applications where the material is exposed to high temperatures, such as in certain extrusion or injection molding processes. Furthermore, the additive can preferably be adapted to specific needs through variations in composition, such as adjusting the ratio between fatty acid esters and mineral oil.This flexibility in composition enables manufacturers to precisely tailor the additive to their specific production requirements, leading to even better performance of the end product. In a preferred formulation, the additive exhibits improved safety characteristics due to a higher flash point, thereby reducing the risk of fire during processing and handling. The additive preferably comprises a mixture of fatty acid esters and mineral oil, where the flash point of the mixture is preferably higher than 119°C. This increased flash point optionally contributes to safety during the processing of plastic materials, where heat is often a critical factor. The fatty acid ester-based additive can preferably also be optimized to improve the flexibility of the resulting plastic products. Thus, they serve as a plasticizer. This can contribute to improving the mechanical properties of the products, making them more durable and resilient in their applications.The variable chain lengths and saturation levels of the fatty acids offer a wide range of adaptation possibilities for various applications, allowing manufacturers to tailor formulations to the specific needs and requirements of their customers. The additive can optionally also serve as a plasticizer in plastics processing, where it exhibits a strong plasticizing effect and offers compatibility with standard PVC formulations. The viscosity increase caused by the additive can contribute to a homogeneous distribution of fillers in filled PVC pastes, which can further improve the consistency and performance of the end product. In a preferred application, the additive is used in a polymer composition where the additive increases the viscosity of the molten polymer. This results in improved thermoplastic properties that enhance the formability and quality of the end products.The additive can preferably be used in a wide range of polymer processes, such as extrusion, injection molding, and blow molding, where the increase in viscosity contributes to better control over the processing properties. Optionally, the additive can be composed of specific fatty acid esters that have a synergistic effect on the viscosity increase. These fatty acid esters are preferably derived from natural sources, such as vegetable oils, to promote the durability of the end product. More preferably, the fatty acid esters can have a chain length of C16 to C18, which contributes to the thermal stability of the additive. In a further preferred formulation, the additive can also contribute to improved flexibility of the polymer product, which increases its applicability in various industries. For example, in the automotive industry, improved flexibility can result in lighter and stronger components.Moreover, the additive can optionally be combined with other additives, such as stabilizers or colorants, without losing the desired properties. This offers the possibility to adapt the additive to specific requirements of various applications. In a preferred form, the fatty acid ester additive is suitable for plastics processing, where the fatty acid ester-based additive is suitable for increasing the viscosity of a liquid system consisting of a suspension of fine PVC particles in water. The additive can optionally be used in a wide range of applications, particularly in plastisol, a suspension of fine PVC particles in water, formulations, where it reduces viscosity. The specific fatty acid chains such as C16-C18 and C18:1-3 contribute to the thermal and chemical stability of the additive. In a more preferred form, the additive shows a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at 180°C, which indicates excellent thermal stability.The viscosity of the additive is preferably optimized for improving the viscosity of plastisol, while also ensuring a homogeneous distribution of fillers within filled PVC pastes. The physical properties of the additive, such as a flash point higher than 119°C and a pour point where these properties are crucial. The thermal stability of the additive is preferably such that it exhibits a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at 180°C. This makes the additive particularly suitable for applications where high temperatures play a role, such as in plastics processing. Preferably, the additive exhibits a low mass loss at elevated temperatures, such as less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at 180°C, which contributes to the thermal stability of the material. The flash point of the additive can be higher than 119°C and the pour point can be lower than or equal to 0°C, which can optimize safety and performance in technical applications.In a preferred form, the additive comprises a compound mixture that contributes to increasing the viscosity of a PVC particle suspension. This results in a more consistent distribution of the particles in the suspension, which can optionally lead to improved mechanical properties of the final plastic product. The additive may preferably contain a mixture of fatty acid esters and mineral oil, where the fatty acid esters are derived from natural oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, or rapeseed oil. In another preferred form, the additive may also be adapted for use in PVC plastisol formulations, where it not only reduces the viscosity. This makes the additive particularly suitable for applications where fast processing times and improved safety are essential. The low volatile emissions of the additive can optionally offer an additional benefit, especially in applications where emission reduction is important, such as in the automotive or construction sectors. As a result, the additive can contribute to more sustainable production environments and higher product quality.In summary, the additive30 in this preferred version offers a versatile and efficient solution for plastics processing, with optimized safety characteristics that can significantly reduce the risk of fire. 35 In a further version, the fatty acid-based additive has a mass loss of less than 1 m% after 5 minutes of exposure to 180°C. The additive also offers advantages in terms of thermal stability. It is resistant to high temperatures with a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at 180°C, which emphasizes its suitability for high-temperature applications. Moreover, the additive has low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and contains fewer toxic components than conventional mineral oils, making it an environmentally friendly and safer alternative for plastics processing. Furthermore, the additive can preferably exhibit low volatile emissions, which can contribute to cleaner reproduction environments and a reduction of potentially harmful emissions.This property can be particularly beneficial in sensitive production environments where air quality is of crucial importance. The use of natural oils as a raw material can preferably contribute to the sustainability of the additive, which can result in a lower ecological footprint of the production process. In another version, the fatty acid ester-based additive will be characterized by having a flash point higher than 119°C. In an even further version, the fatty acid-based additive is characterized by a flash point higher than 119°C and a maximum of 180°C. These properties contribute to safety and efficiency during the processing of plastics, because they reduce the risk of ignition at high temperatures and allow for a wide range of processing temperatures. Depending on the polymer to be processed, other fatty acid-based additives can also be produced based on a specific process.In a further formulation, the fatty acid-based additive is characterized by a flash point higher than 119°C and a maximum of 180°C measured according to DIN NISO 2592:2018-01 and a boiling point between 150°C and 350°C. The additive preferably exhibits a flash point higher than 119°C, which contributes to its safety and usability in industrial applications. Furthermore, the pour point of the additive can preferably be lower than 0°C, which increases its applicability in cold environments. In addition, it has a high freezing point of 0°C, which contributes to safety and stability during processing and storage. In a further formulation, the additive may be used in combination with other substances, whereby the fatty acid ester-based additive is supplemented with a substance35 chosen from a group comprising fatty acid-based substances, including fatty acid amides, fatty acid alcohols, fatty acid soaps, or combinations thereof. These additives, such as stabilizers, improve properties for specific 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 19 further.Thanks to the versatility and effectiveness of the fatty acid ester-based additive, it is a valuable addition to plastics processing, with clear benefits for durability, performance, and environmental friendliness. The additive can also preferably be used in combination with other additives, such as stabilizers or antioxidants, to further improve performance. In an even more preferred formulation, the addition of these additives can contribute to increased thermal stability and an extended service life of the end product. The presence of specific fatty acid chains, such as C16-C18 and C18:1-3, can optionally contribute to the thermal and chemical stability of the additive, making it particularly suitable for use in demanding applications. In a further preferred formulation, the mixture can be modified to offer even lower volatile emissions, which is particularly beneficial in applications where air quality is of crucial importance, such as in indoor spaces or in the automotive industry.This contributes to a healthier and safer environment for both the producers and the end users of the plastic products. Preferably, the flash point of the additive is between 100°C and 500°C, more preferably between 150°C and 450°C, even more preferably between 150°C and 400°C, even more preferably between 150°C and 350°C, and most preferably between 200°C and 300°C. Due to these specific flash point values, the additive can be used in a wide range of plastics processing applications, whereby the safety and performance of the end products are optimized. It is possible that the composition of the additive is further optimized by the use of specific fatty acid chains, such as C16-C18 and C18:1-3, which not only improve thermal stability but also contribute to a higher flash point. These chains can preferably be obtained from natural oils such as soybean oil, palm oil25 or algae oil. In a preferred formulation, the fatty acid ester-based additive has a kinematic viscosity of approximately 25 mm².s at 40°C.This additive preferably offers stable processing conditions during plastic production, which can lead to improved product uniformity. The kinematic viscosity of the additive is preferably within the range of 20 to 30 mm².s at 40°C, more preferably between 22 and 28 mm².s, even more preferably between 24 and 26 mm².s, and most preferably around 25 mm².s. This specific viscosity is preferably chosen to ensure a consistent and controlled flow of the additive in the plastic matrix, whereby the dispersion of fillers and other additives in the plastic mass can be optimized. 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 20 The additive can preferably also improve the processing speed of plastics by lowering the processing temperature, which can result in energy savings and a reduction in thermal degradation of the plastic. The processing speed can preferably be increased without compromising the quality of the end product.Moreover, the stability of the additive can preferably lead to a reduction of undesirable effects such as discoloration or hardening of the plastic at elevated temperatures. According to a formulation, the fatty acid ester-based additive is suitable for plastics processing, characterized by the fact that at least 30m% of the fatty acid esters are derived from a natural oil and that the natural oil is selected from a group consisting of soybean oil, palm oil, olive oil, tall oil, linseed oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, jatropha oil, algae oil, coconut oil, corn oil, tung oil, and mixtures of two or more thereof. In addition, the use of fatty acid esters from various natural oils promotes compatibility with a wide range of polymer formations. This offers better solubility and enables versatility in applications and performance optimization. The increased proportion of bio-based content in the additive, preferably more than 30m%, increases the durability of the end products, improves corrosion resistance, and reduces volatility.This promotes the reduction of dependence on non-renewable resources and the stability of plastic products. In a preferred formulation, the additive comprises various fatty acid esters that can exhibit synergistic effects, which optimizes the compatibility and performance of the additive in plastics processing. These synergistic effects can lead to optimal viscosity, making the additive particularly suitable for applications in the plastics industry. Preferably, the additive comprises a combination of fatty acid esters that can vary in chain lengths and degrees of saturation, allowing a wide range of physical and chemical properties to be achieved. These fatty acid esters are preferably derived from natural oils, such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, jatropha oil, and algae oil. The fatty acid chains may preferably vary from C16 to C18, with the possible presence of unsaturated bonds such as C18:1-3. In a more preferred version, the additive may also contain mineral oil, with a preferred concentration of up to 30%.This mineral oil can help improve the lubricating properties of the additive and contribute to the overall stability and performance in plastics processing. In a preferred formulation 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 21, the fatty acid ester-based additive comprises a mixture of fatty acid esters with variable chain lengths and degrees of saturation, which makes the additive particularly suitable for a wide range of plastics applications. This additive, which is preferably used in PVC plastisol formulations, offers significant benefits by shortening processing time. More specifically, it shortens gelling time, which results in faster production cycles and a higher output of plastic products. This is especially beneficial in industrial environments where production efficiency is crucial. In a preferred formulation, the additive comprises a homogeneous mixture of at least two different fatty acids, whereby the fatty acid esters are preferably derived from natural oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, jatropha oil, or algae oil.Optionally, the additive can be used at temperatures ranging from 5°C to 40°C, preferably between 10°C and 35°C, even more preferably between 15°C and 30°C, even more preferably between 15°C and 25°C, and most preferably between 15°C and 20°C. This temperature range makes the additive particularly suitable for application in various climatic conditions without diminishing its effectiveness. In a further preferred application, the additive can be used in PVC plastisol formulations, preferably reducing the viscosity of the plastisol layer and the gelling time. This can result in more efficient processing of PVC products, which can be particularly beneficial in industrial applications where time savings are crucial. The additive can also optionally act as a plasticizer, providing a strong plasticizing effect. offers compatibility with standard PVC formulations.Additionally, the additive can preferably be produced by a process in which the fatty acid esters and mineral oil are preheated separately in a first and second storage tank, respectively, before pumping them to a mixing vessel. The mixing process can optionally be carried out using an external pump and a stirrer in a lateral position, preferably in an inert gas atmosphere to prevent oxidation. The design of the stirrer can be such that vortex formation is prevented, which contributes to a homogeneous mixture. The thermal stability of the additive can preferably be characterized by a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes at 180°C. This makes the additive particularly suitable for applications where thermal stability is important. Furthermore, the low volatile emissions of the additive can contribute to improved durability and performance of the end products, especially in applications where emission reduction is an important factor.The additive thus offers a versatile and efficient 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 22 solution for plastics processing, with optimized properties such as viscosity improvement, flexibility and thermal stability. In a preferred form, the fatty acid ester-based additive is characterized by having a structure with the common formula R1-COOR, where R1 is a carbon chain with 7 to 22 carbon atoms, and R1 is saturated or saturated; R1 is a methyl group. Methyl esters are known for their excellent thermal stability, which makes them suitable for high-temperature applications. This stability is due to the strong bonds between the carbon and oxygen atoms in the ester structure. Methyl ester fatty acids show less tendency towards thermal decomposition, even with prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. This makes them ideal for use in environments where thermal stability is of crucial importance. Furthermore, their low volatile emissions contribute to the sustainability of the end product.15 EXAMPLES The present invention will now be further explained by means of the following examples. The invention is in no way limited to the given examples or the implementation forms presented in the figures. 20 Example 1. A fatty acid ester-based additive was prepared by preheating fatty acid esters derived from soybean oil and palm oil to a temperature of 18°C ​​in a first storage tank. Simultaneously, mineral oil was preheated to the same temperature in a second storage tank. These components were subsequently pumped to a mixing vessel, where they were mixed using an external pump and a side stirrer at a speed of 1500 rpm. Mixing took place under a nitrogen atmosphere to prevent oxidation. The resulting mixture showed a kinematic viscosity of approximately 25 mm² at 40°C and a flash point of 125°C. This additive demonstrated reduced environmental impact and improved thermoplastic properties when used in PVC plastisol formulations. Example 2.In a second experiment, fatty acid esters of rapeseed oil and algae oil35 were combined. The mixing process was carried out at a lower temperature of 15°C and a stirring speed of 1200 rpm. The resulting composition showed a mass loss of less than 0.5 m% after 5 minutes of exposure to 180°C, which 2024 / 5965 BE2024 / 5965 23 indicates increased thermal resistance. In addition, improved process control was observed, which led to consistent and reproducible product quality. Example 3.5 An additive was manufactured using a mixture of fatty acid esters of jatropha oil and coconut oil. The mixing was carried out at 20°C and under a nitrogen atmosphere. The additives showed an increased viscosity of a PVC particle suspension, which led to a more consistent distribution and improved mechanical properties of the final product. The lower volatile emissions contributed to improved product integrity and environmental friendliness. Example 4. In another experiment, a mixture of fatty acid esters of linseed oil and safflower oil was used.The mixing took place at 17°C and a stirring speed of 1300 rpm. The additive showed increased chemical stability due to the use of a nitrogen atmosphere, which reduced oxidation during the mixing process. This resulted in improved durability and a longer service life of the plastic products. Example 5. An additive was prepared using fatty acid esters of olive oil and sunflower oil. The mixing process was carried out at 19°C with a stirring speed of 1400 rpm. The additive showed improved synergistic performance due to the combination of different fatty acid esters, which led to optimal viscosities and improved compatibility with various polymers. The present invention is not limited to any form of realization previously described, and some modifications can be added to the presented manufacturing example without reconsidering the attached claims. For example, although the invention is described with respect to specific natural oils, it is clear that the invention can be applied to other natural oils or combinations thereof.It is clear that the method according to the inventions and their applications are not limited to the presented examples. The current invention is in no way limited35 to the forms of execution described and / or shown in the examples.