Processing aids for PVC are acrylic-based polymers that, as their name suggests, help make PVC processing easier and more uniform. They promote fusion, improving the surface finish and gloss of finished products.
PVC processing aids are high-molecular-weight acrylic polymers compatible with the PVC matrix. They are used mainly in rigid formulations, and their core function is to promote resin fusion, increase melt strength and homogenize flow, reducing surface defects such as sharkskin and flow marks. They also help reduce plate-out and die build-up on the metal walls of the equipment, which translates into fewer production stoppages for cleaning.
Our high-molecular-weight grades increase torque during processing as well as the melt temperature, which can benefit customers who produce foamed parts.
Lower-molecular-weight grades help achieve fusion without the need for high processing temperatures. As part of this improved fusion, lumps or surface defects in PVC are greatly reduced. Processing aids also help achieve greater transparency in PVC for transparent applications.
When using PVC processing aids, it is recommended to maintain a well-balanced lubrication system, as acrylic-based aids tend to significantly increase melt viscosity and can lead to rapid thermal degradation if a proper stabilizer is not included.
