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Wisdom For Polyethylene vol.7

7. Additives Included in Polyethylene Raw Material

2024-06-21
 Polyethylene has two types: additive-free or additive. Additives basically refer to antioxidants, lubricants, and anti-blocking agents.

(1) Antioxidant

 Antioxidants are used to prevent oxidation during the heating and melting process at 140°C to 190°C during the inflation process, rather than to control oxidative degradation of plastic bags.
 This is because oxidation can lead to the formation of resin carbides (cobwebs) and cause manufacturing problems.


(2) Lubricant

 Lubricants are used to impart slip properties to the film, improve release from the mold die during inflation, increase abrasion resistance, and enhance productivity. They also speed up the bag-making process.


(3) Anti-blocking agent

 Anti-blocking agents are designed to improve workability by allowing the mouth of the plastic bag to open easily when the customer fills it with contents.


Summary

Type of Additive
Oxidation Inhibitor
Lubricant
Anti-Blocking Agent
Main Purpose
Prevents degradation during heating
Improves slip and release properties
Prevents film layers from sticking
Representative Substances
BHT (phenolic) 
etc.
Fatty acid-based,
amide-based
Synthetic silica
etc.
Safety Concerns
Some concern over carcinogenicity
Low risk
High safety
 Polyethylene raw materials use various additives depending on their application.
 Oxidation inhibitors prevent resin oxidation, lubricants improve handling during the manufacturing process, and anti-blocking agents enhance operational efficiency.
 In particular, phenolic oxidation inhibitors (BHT) are highly effective but raise safety concerns, making the development of alternative technologies necessary.

 The selection of additives is closely related to the intended use of the final product (food packaging, medical, or industrial) and safety standards.

 It is important to decide whether to choose additive-free polyethylene or to utilize additives according to the product characteristics and purpose.


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 Next Article
8. Differences Between LDPE and LLDPE

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