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Some polymers have mechanical properties that make them useful in various areas of applications. Examples of such polymers are polypropylene. Common applications of polypropylene include textiles, parts for refrigerators and dishwashers, furniture, toys, syringes, body panels for automobiles, and so much more.

With such versatile polymers, we only need to tweak their properties with some additives, and they can become suitable for even more areas of applications. Examples of additives for such polymers are nucleating agents and clarifiers.

What Are Nucleating Agents?

Nucleating agents are chemicals that encourage the formation of crystals in semi-crystalline polymers. The presence of nucleating agents in polymers improves their toughness, molecular stability, and clarity. Clarifying agents are only nucleating agents that enhance transparency.

The most common area of application of nucleating and clarifying agents is in polypropylene (PP) polymer. And because the crystal size, rate of crystallization, and degree of crystallization of these polymers play huge roles in their optical, thermal, and mechanical properties, nucleating agents are also very important because they allow us to modify these factors.

How Nucleating Agents Work

Nucleating agents increase the rate at which crystallization takes place in semi-crystalline polymers. Nucleating agents do this by this is by creating a suitable surface for the growth of polymer crystals. The consequence of this is that the time required for the polymer to cool down after processing is reduced. And when it takes less time to process polymer, its production rate increases.

There are three major ways through which nucleating agents are added to the polymer matrix. The first is by melt mixing. The second is solution blending, and the third is in-situ polymerization. During mix melting, the nucleating agents are mixed with the polymer matrix at temperature levels that are higher than the melting point of the polymer. Solution blending involves the dissolving of the polymer in a solvent before adding the nucleating agents to the solution.

Finally, the in-situ polymerization mixing involves the synthesizing of the polymer from its monomer. And while the polymerization reaction takes place, we add the nucleating agents.

Categories of Nucleating Agents

We have more than one way of categorize nucleating agents. But the most common classifications are these:

• Soluble nucleating agents
• Particulate nucleating agents

Let’s discuss each class in a little more detail.

1.    Soluble Nucleating Agents

Soluble nucleating agents are characterized by their low melting points and how quickly they dissolve in polymers. During the melting process of polymers, soluble nucleating agents are the first to crystallize out. They then form a network that has a wide surface area in the process. On further drop in the temperature of the polymer melt, the polymer itself begins to melt, with the nucleating agent forming a network of nuclei. The nuclei are often so many that they force the polymer crystals to be small. And with the formation of these tiny crystals, the polymer becomes more transparent.

Examples of these nucleating agents are trisamides, nonitols, and sorbitols.

2.    Particulate Nucleating Agents

Unlike their soluble counterparts, particulate nucleating agents have high melting points. During polymer processing, the particles of these nucleating agents scatter themselves in the polymer melt. There, they form nuclei “hotspots” for the crystals of the polymers to grow from.

Examples of particulate nucleating agents include minerals and salts.

Factors that Affect The Effectiveness of Nucleating Agents

Nucleating agents have varying levels of effectiveness in polymers, depending on the following factors:

1.    The acid scavenger used in the polymer

Some acid scavengers negate the effects of some kinds of nucleants. They should never be used together in the same polymer. Examples of incompatible acid scavengers and nucleant are calcium stearate and sodium benzoate, respectively.

2.    Polymer melt temperatures

Nucleating agents have varying melt temperatures. Those that have high melt temperatures help us derive the best clarity from the polymers they are added to. Sorbitols are examples of such polymers.

3.    Size of nucleant particles

The smaller the particles of nucleants, the more clarification they bring to the polymer. The disadvantage of nucleants with small particles, however, is that the particles are harder to disperse. Smaller nucleant particles tend to re-aggregate even after dispersion. A suitable example of such a nucleant is sodium benzoate.

Other factors that determine the effectiveness of nucleating agents in the polymer matrix are the shape of the nucleant particles, the method of adding the nucleant to the polymer, and the degree of dispersion of the nucleant particles.

Shipping Nucleating and Clarifying Agents in Liquid Bulk

Nucleating agents are not as popular as other polymer additives. The reason is that only a handful of polymers use these additives. As a result, not many logistics companies would want to ship these chemicals. But even if you run out of logistics service options for your nucleating agent transport, Total Connection still has your back.

Total Connection logistics company offers you the best liquid bulk shipping solutions for your nucleating agent and clarifier shipments. We are a third-party logistics company with the experience and expertise to ship all kinds of industrial chemicals. Our services are tailored to your needs and your budget, so you can rest assured that you’re making the best supply chain decision for your company.

Enjoy the premium, yet affordable, services than other companies enjoy when they have us handle their supply chain by filling out the brief quote form below.

Moisture and heat are important to the strength development of concrete. Even after the concrete has been placed, its water and heat contents should be maintained for its full strength development. And a way to achieve this is to seal the surface of the concrete. But with what? With concrete curing compounds.

In this piece, you’ll learn:

• What concrete curing compounds are
• Types of curing compounds
• Concrete curing compound FAQs, and
• How to ship the chemicals in bulk.

What Are Concrete Curing Compounds

Curing compounds are compounds we apply to the surface of a newly laid concrete to prevent loss of moisture and heat. Usually, this loss of moisture and heat in a newly placed concrete prevents it from developing into its full strength. But curing allows the concrete to retain these factors that are crucial to its durability. Curing also improves the resistance of the concrete to abrasion, scaling, and freezing. This process is called concrete curing.

Concrete requires the right amount of water content when it is being set. Too little or too much water could lead to weak concrete that gives out less than a year into its construction. But when the water is just the right amount, it helps the concrete to set properly, giving it maximum strength. And this is why we use concrete curing compounds to temporarily seal the surface of the concrete to trap its moisture and heat content within the concrete.

Types of Curing Compounds

There are four common types of concrete curing compounds. They are:

• Synthetic resin-based concrete curing compounds
• Wax-based concrete curing compounds
• Acrylic-based curing compounds
• Chlorinated rubber-based concrete curing compounds

Each type of concrete curing type is different in its formulation, its working mechanism, and how long it lasts.

1.    Synthetic resin-based concrete curing compounds

Synthetic resin-based curing compounds seal the moisture and heat content of the concrete through the formation of a membrane. The short life of this kind of curing compound could be a disadvantage and can even be removed by washing the concrete surface with hot water. This is, however, good for when the concrete is still going to be plastered.

Synthetic resin-based concrete curing compounds start to peel off less than 30 days after application. The efficiency of the curing compound is often high for a few days after application but gradually reduces until it completely peels off.

2.    Wax-based concrete curing compounds

Wax-based concrete curing compounds are very similar to synthetic resin-based curing compounds. They also have similar average efficiency.

3.    Acrylic-based curing compounds

Acrylic-based curing concrete compounds are more lasting and retain their efficiency for longer. They form a tough membrane on the surface of the concrete that doesn’t collapse or disintegrate. A common advantage of this kind of curing compound is that it has an impressive adhesion with plaster. With this advantage, constructors don’t have to bother trying to remove the compound before applying plaster. This leads to a faster construction time. 

4.    Chlorinated rubber-based concrete curing compounds

Chlorinated rubber-based concrete curing compounds have high sealing efficiency because they form a membrane that covers the smallest pores and openings in the concrete.

Concrete Curing Compound FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about curing compounds:

Is curing compound necessary?

Curing compounds are integral to concrete curing, and so they are very necessary. Curing compounds help the concrete to retain its water and heat content for a while after the concrete has been set. Without them, the concrete wouldn’t develop into its full strength, which affects its durability.

How long should concrete be cured?

After about two days, the concrete should be strong enough to be walked on and withstand some weight without having prints. Technically, the curing length of concrete depends on a number of factors, such as the ambient weather conditions, mixture proportions, and potential exposure conditions. However, the concrete should be cured for at least 7 days. It should have developed by an average of 70% into its full strength in this time.

Shipping Curing Compounds in Bulk

Shipping your concrete curing compounds doesn’t have to be a hassle when you turn to the right logistics partner. And this is what we aim to achieve at Total Connection: A hassle-free curing compound shipping for you.

Total Connection is a third-party logistics company that handles the shipping of all kinds of industrial chemicals, including curing compounds. We structured our services with your business in mind. And you can be sure that whatever supply chain solution we offer you are the best for your needs and your budget.

You too can join hundreds of other companies that have partnered with us to take their supply chain to the next level of efficiency when you fill out the quote form below.

The durability of concrete construction is crucial to the success of the entire construction project. Concrete is used for a lot of construction applications, mainly because of its durability. But there’s a problem when the concrete that everyone expects to be durable starts giving out before other construction materials. The consequences of this range from high maintenance and replacement costs to reduced property values.

That is why the strength and durability of a concrete surface should be increased as best as one can during construction. And that is what liquid hardeners are used for. Now, we aren’t saying liquid hardeners are quick fixes for a poorly prepared concrete mixture. That’s more like slapping a band-aid on a broken wrist. And frankly, the only remedy to that is the complete replacement of the concrete construction. However, what we’re saying is that a combination of liquid hardeners and properly prepared and placed concrete can lengthen the lifespan of the concrete.

Here in this article, you’ll learn:

• What liquid hardeners are
• How liquid hardeners work, and
• The benefits of liquid hardeners.

What are Liquid Hardeners?

Liquid hardeners are inorganic compounds that engage in some complex reactions with the free lime on the surface (or just beneath it) of concrete. And as the name suggests, the hardener hardens the concrete and increases its wear and abrasion resistance.

Apart from hardening the concrete surface to increase wear and abrasion resistance, constructors apply liquid hardeners to concrete to seal the surface and make it dustproof. In addition, some hardeners make the concrete surface shiny after a few months of use and normal cleaning. The formulation of liquid hardeners depends on the manufacturer, but they are always silicates.

How Liquid Hardeners Work

When you mix cement with water, they react to form calcium hydroxide and silica. These two products then react to form calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). All these reactions take place as the cement hardens. It is this C-S-H that helps the concrete bond with the cement, forming a solid surface that hardens into the concrete we know.

However, the problem is that this reaction always produces more calcium hydroxide (or free lime) than we need. This excess free lime could be detrimental to the strength of the concrete, as it causes the concrete to have tiny holes on its surface.

Hardeners are the solution. Remember we said hardeners are all silicates. Well, this silicate reacts with the excess free lime to form more C-S-H, which eventually hardens the surface of the concrete.

Liquid hardeners can be added to both freshly placed and already existing concrete.

Benefits of Liquid Hardeners

Liquid hardeners have been in use since the early 20th century. And these are some benefits that constructors have derived from the chemicals since then:

1.    Boosts Resistance to Wear and Abrasion

Liquid hardeners seal the concrete surface to make it harder. A harder concrete is more resistant to wear and abrasion.

2.    Boosts the Durability of Existing Concrete

The life of an existing concrete can be extended with the application of liquid hardeners. This makes it a popular solution for concrete floors of high-traffic areas, such as warehouses, that are already weakening from use. Placing a fresh level of concrete is not a cost-effective alternative, so liquid hardeners are sent to do the job.

3.    Increases Resistance to the Freeze-Thaw Cycle

Freezing and thawing stress construction materials, including concrete. They weaken the materials and shorten their life spans. But with liquid hardeners, this effect can be mitigated.

4.    Resistance to Staining

After regular use and normal cleaning of a liquid hardened floor, the surface gets smoother and gets shinier. This makes it harder for the stain to stick to the surface.

Shipping Liquid Hardeners in Bulk

Liquid hardeners are easy to ship in bulk if you know what logistics company to turn to. Otherwise, you could be stuck on the long, windy road of frustration.

At Total Connection logistics, we handle all kinds of bulk industrial chemical shipping from anywhere to everywhere. You can leverage our network of connections scattered all around the world to get your industrial chemicals from the best and the most affordable sources. In addition, what you get from us are logistics solutions that are best suited to your needs and budget. As far as we’re concerned, you’re our only customer. And we’re committed to serving logistic needs as efficiently as possible.

You can reach out to us by filling out the brief quote form below.

Sunlight and polymers don’t go together. The UV rays that come from the sun bear nothing but evil tidings for polymers. So do the light and heat from the same sunlight. They all degrade polymers. And so polymers that are used outdoors are at constant risk of degradation through these three unavoidable factors. But there are ways of protecting these polymers from degradation factors. This is why we use light and UV stabilizers.

This guide discusses light and UV stabilizers exhaustively. And to ensure you don’t get lost somewhere before the end, we have divided this guide into four parts. Each part talks about everything from what light stabilizers are, their types, the polymers they are most compatible with, and how to ship the polymer additives.

But before we go further, let’s have you understand the effects of light and UV degradation on polymers.

How UV Degradation Affects Polymers

The effects of UV degradation on polymers range from physical to chemical. Some polymers only get affected in their looks and their coloration. Some other polymers become weak in their molecular structures and break easily. And for an unfortunate handful, they experience both.

These are the various ways light and UV degradation can affect polymers:

●      Weakened mechanical properties

UV degradation leads to the loss of those mechanical properties that once enabled the polymers to do their jobs.

●      Reduced molecular weight

Light degradation causes the molecular weight of the polymers to reduce. This is a consequence of the breaking of long molecular chains into shorter bits. And when this happens, the polymer becomes weaker and it’s only a matter of time before a little amount of stress breaks it.

●      Loss of transparency

Transparent polymers lose their transparency on exposure to light degradation. This is because of the polymers dispersing the incident light rays instead of letting them through.

●      Release of harmful by-products

The degradation of some polymers is often characterized by the release of harmful by-products. These by-products then escape into the environment and accumulate in animals and humans. The story never ends well from here.

Now that you understand some negative effects of light degradation on polymers, let’s discuss the solutions to these problems. Let’s talk about light stabilizers.

PART A

This part gives you an overview of what we’ll be discussing in other parts of this article. In this part, you’ll learn:

• What light stabilizers are
• Types of light stabilizers

What Are Light Stabilizers

Light stabilizers are a group of polymer additives that prevent the degradation of polymers caused by light, heat, and UV from the sun. While these three factors would have naturally caused polymers to crack, break, or change color, light stabilizers fortify the polymers against the degrading effects of these factors.

Thanks to light stabilizers, the side mirrors and bumpers of your car don’t crack and break a few weeks after you bought the car. Your tires don’t tear every now and then, and pipes don’t chalk a few months into use.

Types of Light Stabilizers

Remember we said light stabilizers are a group of polymer additives? Well, this group comprises three polymer additives. They are:

• UV absorbers
• Quenchers, and
• Hindered Light Amine Stabilizers (HALS).

UV absorbers, quenchers, and HALS all help to protect the polymers from degrading, but each goes about it differently. These light stabilizers also have varying periods of effectiveness, different areas of applications, and are unequally priced. The rest of this article goes deeper into each of these light stabilizers.

PART B

This is the part where you learn about each type of light stabilizer. Here, you’ll learn about:

• UV Absorbers
• Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers (HALS), and
• Quenchers

UV Absorbers

UV absorbers are additives that protect polymers from degrading by absorbing the UV rays incident on the polymer and dissipating them as low heat energy.

Polymers naturally absorb the UV rays from the sun, and that’s how they degrade. But when you add UV absorbers to the polymer matrix, the additives absorb the UV rays faster than the polymer matrix, preventing the polymers from degrading.

UV absorbers don’t degrade as rapidly as the polymers they are protecting, making them suitable for the job. But the downside of UV absorbers, however, is that their effectiveness largely depends on their concentration in the polymer, and the thickness of the polymer itself. UV absorbers have to be added in high concentrations to be effective. The polymers they are protecting must also be thick before any significant UV absorption can be done.

Common examples of UV absorbers include:

• Benzophenones
• Benzotriazoles
• Cyanoacrylates
• Carbon black
• Hydroxybenzophenones
• Hydroxyphenyl Benzotriazoles
• Rutile titanium oxide
• Oxanilides
• Benzotriazoles
• Hydroxyphenyl Triazines

Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers (HALS)

Unlike UV absorbers, HALS don’t absorb UV rays. Instead, HALS inhibit the degradation of polymers through the removal of free radicals that form when polymers oxidize. This process is often cyclic, as the HALS can regenerate and continue to be effective. This is why HALS don’t get used up during the process. And it makes them favorites for long-term degradation resistance.

Quenchers

The impurities in polymers often catalyze their degradation when they trap light from the sun. As a result, the polymer goes into an excited state and is full of energy. At this energetic state, polymers can easily react with oxygen in the air and degrade. But UV quenchers get into the mix, absorb the energy from the excitation process before, and dissipate it. A common example of quenchers is the nickel quencher.

PART C

Here in this part is where you’ll learn how to choose light stabilizers, depending on your application. You’ll learn:

• General light stabilizer selection tips, and
• Light Stabilizer Selection for Polymers

General Light Stabilizer Selection Tips

These are some general tips to follow before you select light stabilizers.

1.    Migration

As much as possible, only use light stabilizers with high molecular weight. Low molecular weight additives tend to migrate out of the polymer bulk, becoming ineffective. But in situations where low molecular weight light stabilizers have to be used, careful considerations and adequate measures should be put in place to keep the additive from migrating.

2.    Processability

You should also try to use light stabilizers that can be easily processed with the polymer bulk. For instance, a polymer additive that degrades at temperatures over 350°C should not be used with polymers whose processing temperature range is in that range.

3.    Stability

The choice of light stabilizers has to be stable in the environment, in the polymer bulk, and with other additives in the mixture. That is why it is not recommended that you use light stabilizers with alkaline tendencies in acidic areas or with other additives that have acidic tendencies.

4.    Handling

Although light stabilizers are mostly safe and easy to handle, don’t take any chances. Certain additives should not be used in products for kids, pregnant women, or food processing. That is why you must understand the potential end-use environment of the polymer before picking a light stabilizer for it.

5.    Compatibility with polymers

Polymers must be only paired with their compatible light stabilizers. This could be what makes the difference between the addictive decomposing into the polymer (and becoming useless) and remaining stable (and becoming useful). There is more on polymers and their compatible light stabilizers in the next section.

6.    Regulations

The regulations that bind the use of light stabilizers in your jurisdiction should not also be taken for granted or you could get into legal trouble.

Light Stabilizer Selection for Polymers

Here are some polymers and the recommended light stabilizers for them:

1.    Polyamides

Polyamides are either aliphatic or aromatic.

Aliphatic polyamides

Aliphatic polyamides are categorized into two major divisions. The first is polyamide fiber, and the other is polyamide thermoplastics.

Applications of polyamide fibers

• Carpets, textiles, etc.

Application of polyamide thermoplastics

• Automotive (e.g. gears, headlamp housings, bearings, etc)
• Food packaging
• Electrical and electronic equipment
• Toys, ski boots, propellers, etc.

Light Stabilizers for aliphatic polyamides

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for injection molded aliphatic polyamides:

• UV Absorbers (UVA) with high molecular weights, such as a Hydroxyphenyl-benzotriazole compound.
• HALS with a high molecular weight. This particular light stabilizer is also suitable for fiber-graded aliphatic polyamides.

Aromatic Polyamides

Popular examples of aromatic polyamides include Poly(m-phenylene isophthalamide) (Nomex), and Poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) (Kevlar).

Applications of aromatic polyamides

• Sports fabrics
• Industrial filters,
• Bulletproof body armor
• Electrical insulation, etc.

Light stabilizers for aromatic polyamides

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for aromatic polyamides:

• UVA: Benzotriazole or benzophenone compounds.
• HALS, such as piperidine or amide compounds.

2.    PVC

PVCs fall into two broad categories; flexible PVCs and rigid PVCs.

Flexible PVCs

Flexible PVCs can either be white pigmented or clear and transparent.

Applications of flexible PVCs

• PVC pool
• Flexible wall covering
• Automotive trims
• Waste disposal and irrigation liners
• PVC roofing membranes
• Signs and banners

Light stabilizers for white pigmented flexible PVCs

• HALS of all molecular weights. Also, non-basic non-basic aminoether (NOR) HALS are great for polymers that may be used in acidic environments.

Light Stabilizers for transparent flexible PVCs

• A combination of non-basic NOR HALS and a benzophenone compound UVA.

Rigid PVCs

Rigid PVCs have subcategories, including white pigments, pastel and dark-colored, and clear.

Applications of rigid PVCs

• Pipe construction
• Profiling, such as windows and doors.
• Plastic cards
• Bottles

Light stabilizer for clear rigid PVCs

• UVA, such as a benzotriazoles compound

Light stabilizers for white pigmented rigid PVCs

• Low molecular weight HALS

Light stabilizers for pastel and dark-colored rigid PVCs

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for dark-colored rigid PVCs:

• UVA, such as benzotriazoles compounds
• Low molecular weight HALS

3.    Styrenic polymers

Common examples of styrenic polymers are Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), crystal polystyrene (PS), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), and styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN).

Applications ABS

• Lawnmower covers
• Luggage shells
• Automotive interiors.
• Housings for office equipment.

Light stabilizers for ABS

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for ABS:

• UVA, such as benzotriazole compounds.
• Liquid HALS with low molecular weights.

Applications of PS

• Smoke detector housings
• Refrigerator components

Light stabilizers for PS

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for PS:

• UVA, such as benzotriazole compounds
• HALS with low molecular weight.

Applications and HIPS

• Covers
• Medical trays
• Electrical insulation
• Refrigerator lining

Light stabilizers for HIPS

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for HIPS:

• UVA, such as benzotriazole compounds.
• Liquid HALS with low molecular weight.

Applications of SAN

• Industrial door glazing
• Battery cases
• Cases for pencils, cassettes, cosmetics
• Lenses, knobs, covers, switches, hangers, etc.

Light stabilizers for SAN

The combination of the following light stabilizers is suitable for SAN:

• UVA, such as benzotriazole compounds
• Low molecular weight HALS

NOTE: For better performance, the light additives should be used in combination with antioxidants.

PART D

Reward yourself with a pat on the back for making it this far. This final part discusses the shipping of light stabilizers.

Shipping UV and Light Stabilizers

Light and UV stabilizers, like other industrial chemicals, are best shipped in bulk and through large vehicles like tankers and cargo ships. Shipping UV stabilizers in bulk saves costs and ensures that the production of polymer products is uninterrupted. However, this mode of shipping is not without its challenges.

Challenges of Shipping UV Stabilizers in Bulk

Some challenges that plague the transport of UV stabilizers in bulk are:

The hazardous nature of some UV stabilizers

Some UV stabilizers are toxic and are classified as hazardous materials (HAZMAT). Examples of light stabilizers that belong to this category are some benzotriazole compounds. The transport of these chemicals could quickly go wrong in the hands of untrained personnel. That’s why regulatory bodies, such as the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), have come up with a lot of rules to govern the transport of such hazardous materials. One of such rules is the mandatory regulatory training of every person in charge of transporting these hazardous materials.

Here is a video outlining some of the properties of UV stabilizers used in commercial settings.
Video Credit to: Baoxu Chemical Technology LTD

Shipping and transporting conditions

The transport conditions of light stabilizers often vary because of their diverse properties. That is why the proper knowledge of the light stabilizers being shipped is compulsory. Some of these light stabilizer polymer additives require a range of transit temperatures. Some others prefer to not be agitated. Knowing these before the transport would definitely save your company a lot of frustration and costs from having the integrity of your cargo diminish during transit.

The Efficient Way to Ship Bulk UV Stabilizers

The efficient way to ship your bulk UV stabilizers is with Total Connection logistics company. In addition to being efficient, Total Connection offers you logistics solutions that are customized for your very own business. When you reach out to us, we offer solutions that suit the needs and budget of your company. We also have connections with suppliers of all kinds of light stabilizers, and we can give you pointers on how to tighten your supply chain and always get the best deals.

Fill out the quote form below to get your business started on the journey to an efficient, flexible, and affordable supply chain.

Because of the remarkable properties of polymers, they are used in various areas of applications, even in areas where they risk quickened degradation. For instance, polymers that come in contact with metals like copper in cabling, electronics, and electrical applications are at constant risk of degradation. An example of such a polymer is EPDM. The metals are catalysts for polymer degradation, shortening the lifespans of the polymers.

Thankfully, we have polymer additives like metal deactivators that protect these polymers from the degrading actions of metals. And although metal deactivators are used in other areas of applications that don’t involve polymers (such as, oil and gas), this piece talks more about the metal deactivating agents in polymers.

We’ll discuss:

• What metal deactivators are.
• How metal deactivators work.
• Shipping bulk liquid metal deactivators
• The best way to ship bulk liquid metal deactivators.

And without further ado, let’s head straight to it.

What Are Metal Deactivators

Metal deactivators, or metal deactivating agents (MDA), are surface-acting compounds that protect polymers from degradation through metal ions, mostly by deactivating these ions. When they are used as fuel or oil additives, metal deactivators prevent metals from destabilizing the fluids in which they are added through the formation of chelate complexes that render the metal ions inactive.

How Metal Deactivators Work

Before we describe how metal deactivators work, let’s mention how metals lead to the degradation of polymers.

Polymers naturally tend to degrade in the presence of oxygen. This is called the oxidative degradation of polymers. When polymer oxidation occurs, oxidation products, such as alcohols, aldehydes, acids, hydroperoxides, and ketones form. Conditions that could speed up or enable this oxidation process are often heat and catalyst. And two common catalysts responsible for this condition are metal ions and metals.

But there are areas of applications where we have to expose these polymers to harsh polymer degrading conditions out of necessity. An example is in cabling and electronics, where polymers come in direct contact with metal conductors and often get hot from use. And in these situations, we fortify the polymers with metal deactivating agents.

On introduction to polymers, metal deactivators operate on the interface between the metal and the polymer. There, the polymer additive takes the place of the polymers and reacts with the metal ions. The reaction then births the formation of inactive complexes that inhibit the formation of hydroperoxides. This way, the metal ions can’t catalyze an oxidation process, and the polymers don’t suffer hasty destabilization.

Some of the most common compounds used as metal deactivators are chelating agents — chemicals that bond with metal ions. Thus, rendering the metal ions mostly inactive.

Here is a video Describing some of the risks of using Metal Additives in Gear Oils.
Video Credit to: Noria US.

Shipping Bulk Liquid Metal Deactivator

Being industrial chemicals used in large volumes, metal deactivators are best shipped in bulk. But this shipping can be tricky because of the conditions that surround the bulk shipping of hazardous chemicals, which many metal deactivators are. This brings us to how to ship metal deactivators in bulk.

How to Ship Bulk Liquid Metal Deactivators

Here are some of the most important things to consider when shipping bulk liquid metal deactivators:

1.     The Hazard Classification of the Metal Deactivator

The very first thing you need to know is whether the chemical you’re shipping is hazardous or not. If it isn’t, it’s a smooth ride. All you have to do is to load your chemicals from the supplier, coast along the highway till you get to your destination. However, it isn’t as straightforward for the shipping of hazardous metal deactivators.

The shipping of hazardous materials is plagued with a lot of rules and regulations set by several regulatory bodies, such as the US Department of Transportation (USDOT). One of these rules is the regular training of anyone who is to come in contact with the hazardous chemical, from its loading to its transportation, and offloading.

These regulations attract hefty penalties from the regulatory bodies when you fail to adhere to them, but that is just the best-case scenario. In the worst-case scenario, failure to follow the safety measures that accompany the shipment of hazardous chemicals could lead to the wasteful loss of lives and properties.

2.     The Physical and Chemical Properties of the Metal Deactivator

Next to knowing the hazard classification of your metal deactivator is understanding the chemical and physical properties of the substance. Knowing these properties helps you choose the best shipping conditions for the metal deactivating agents. Some reasons you should know the properties of the metal deactivators you’re shipping are:

• Shipping conditions, such as in-transit temperatures and level of agitation can be defined. Chemicals that don’t react well under agitation must be shipped in tankers that are just the perfect fit for the volume being shipped.
• Some chemicals should not be shipped on the same cargo as some other kinds of chemicals. This may enable some unintended reactions that may lead to some catastrophic consequences.
• Also, some chemicals should not be shipped on the next one to two cargoes after the shipping of other chemicals.

Shipping Bulk Liquid Metal Deactivator with Total Connection

Total Connection is a logistics company that has been in the business of transporting all kinds of industrial chemicals for almost three decades. Our expertise and experience have helped us serve hundreds of clients across various industries with an incredibly high satisfaction rate. We owe this success to our consistently flexible, efficient, and affordable services.

When you contact us, we don’t give you a rigid, one-size-fits-all list of quotes for each chemical shipment and leave you to determine which one is best for you. Instead, we walk you through the shipping process by offering you solutions that are peculiar and tailored to your business alone. We then show you ways you can cut costs and enjoy an affordable bulk liquid metal deactivate shipping.

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Fire-safe plastics are crucial to our daily use. Without them, there would be a lot more fire outbreaks and higher fatality rates from these disasters than we have now. Because many plastics naturally tend to catch fire when exposed to high temperatures. Only polymers with inherent flame resistance can resist this tendency. Unfortunately, there aren’t many of them for the vast applications of polymers in our world. But the good news is that for these non-flame-resistant polymers, we have flame retardant polymer additives.

It isn’t enough, however, to just mix any kind of polymer with any kind of flame retardants and hope that the material doesn’t go up in flames. The processes of flame retardation in these polymers and the choice of the additives themselves are often complex. So, we have in this article everything you need to know about flame retardants, including:

• What flame retardants are.
• The need for flame retardants in polymers.
• How flame retardants work.
• Types of flame retardants in plastics.
• Different polymers and their compatible flame retardants.
• Flame retardants and their health concerns, and
• The best way to ship flame retardants.

What are Flame Retardants?

Flame retardants are polymer additives that prevent ignition and/or retard burning in polymers using chemical and physical reactions.

You could try to make the polymer itself flame retardant by improving its intrinsic thermal stability. This would effectively make the polymers less likely to decompose from exposure to high temperatures. But it would be a more expensive venture, considering the volumes of polymers that would have to be intrinsically altered to meet up with the massive applications of the polymers. The cheaper, yet equally effective alternative is the use of flame retardants.

Flame retardants, like other polymer additives, only need to be added in negligible quantities. For instance, you only need between 2% and 10% w of red phosphorus flame retardant, depending on the polymer.

Additive and Reactive Flame Retardants

The additive flame retardant is the category of FRs that is physically mixed with the polymers during processing. Reactive FRs, on the other hand, have to mix with their polymer bases through chemical reactions.

Additive flame retardants don’t need to react chemically with the polymers, so manufacturers can mix them at any stage during the manufacturing process. While this is an enormous advantage for additive flame retardants over their reactive counterparts, the effect of the latter is usually more lasting than that of the former because they bond chemically with the polymer. But since reactive flame retardants must be added reactively to the polymers, this must be done in the early stages of polymer manufacture.

The Need for Flame Retardants in Polymers

There are many reasons we need flame retardants in polymers. Flame retardants:

• Inhibit fire outbreak or its propagation by increasing the flame retardant property of the polymer.
• Help to preserve lives and properties.
• Make the duties of fire service operators easier.

How flame Retardants Work

Flame retardants are different in their working mechanisms. A good starting place to understand how they work is knowing how polymers burn or ignite.

When exposed to heat, polymers emit combustible gasses. These gases mix with oxygen in the air to start ignition. And as long as the polymer has not completely decomposed, it gives off the gas that burns continuously, serving as fuel to the fire. The heat from the fire also returns to the system to keep the fire going. And it goes on and on until the polymer is completely burnt.

During the process, you might observe that the three most important factors are heat, fuel, and oxygen. And these three factors lead the polymer into various stages of the combustion process that comprise heating, decomposition, ignition, spreading of the flame, and smoking.

Without having all these factors to set up the combustion process, there’s no way burning could happen. And this is where our heroes come in. Flame retardants work by breaking the combustion process by removing any of the requisites for combustion.

There are three means through which flame retardants do this: Vapor Phase Inhibition, Solid Phase Char Formation, and Quench and Cool.

The Mechanisms for Flame Retardants In Polymers

Flame retardant retardants deter ignition and burning in the following ways:

1.     Vapor Phase Inhibition

The vapor phase inhibition of flame retardants involves the disruption of the release of the flammable gases that polymers release when exposed to heat. Flame retardants disrupt this process by cooling the polymer so that there isn’t enough heat to cause the expulsion of the combustive gases. The desired consequence is that there isn’t enough gas to start the ignition or keep the burning going.

Although the choice of flame retardant depends on the polymer itself, the two most common compounds used for this kind of vapor phase inhibition are chlorinated organic compounds and brominated compounds. These compounds interfere with the gas phase by releasing chlorine or bromine ions that break the combustive gases reaction process in the polymers. The effect of this process on the flame is that it either slows or dies.

2.     Solid Phase Char Formation

The solid phase char formation is a mechanism some flame retardants employ to break the combustion process through the formation of char. A flame retardant that has this property causes a layer of carbon (char) to form on the surface of the polymer This layer of char then serves as a barrier between the polymer and the heat from the environment.

Apart from forming a barrier, the solid-phase char formation flame retardant also doubles as a hindrance for the flammable gas in the polymer to escape. This ability comes in handy when there is eventually enough heat to force the release of the combustive gases despite the char formation. The char then hinders gases from getting out.

Common examples of flame retardants that fall into this category are melamine-based flame retardants. The molecular structure of these compounds changes into cross-linked structures when they are exposed to heat. And this is where the char comes from.

3.     Quench and Cool

Quench and cool flame retardants make use of hydrated minerals to disrupt the combustion cycle. When these hydrated minerals are exposed to heat, they release the water molecules in them, which in turn cool the polymer and prevent the polymer from letting off its flammable gases.

The compounds that fall into the quench and cool category of flame retardants are magnesium and aluminum compounds. Besides releasing the polymer-cooling water molecules, the retardants also starve the polymer of the energy it requires to sustain burning. Another positive consequence is that this process forms a layer of char that further protects the polymer.

Classifications of Flame Retardants Used in Polymers

Flame retardants exist in several classes. And each class has peculiar properties that make it suitable for specific applications. The six most common of these flame retardant classes are:

• Halogenated flame retardants
• Phosphorus-based flame retardants
• Melamine flame retardants
• Phosphate flame retardants
• Metal hydroxide flame retardants
• Silicon-based flame retardants

But of these six, we’ll only discuss the first three:

1.    Halogenated Flame Retardants

The two halogenated flame retardants we use in polymers are the brominated compounds and chlorinated compounds. Fluorides don’t make it to the list because of their low effectiveness. Iodides also fall short because of their thermal instability at the temperature ranges where polymers are processed.

a.     Chlorinated flame retardants

Chlorinated flame retardants (CFRs) contain chlorine in high concentrations, and they are mostly used in the vapor phase inhibition of flames. They aren’t deployed alone into the polymers, however. Synergists (such as antimony trioxide) are used in combination with them. Chlorinated flame retardants often fall into two categories: chlorinated paraffin and chlorinated alkyl phosphate.

Depending on how long the paraffin chain is, chlorinated paraffin flame retardants are either liquid or solid. And their most common application is in combination with DP or DOP as a plasticizer for flexible PVC. Cables and flooring materials built with this flexible PVC have flame retardant properties. Solid chlorinated paraffin is also useful in combination with a synergist in thermoplastics. Chlorinated alkyl phosphate flame retardants, on the other hand, are used in flexible and rigid polyurethane foams.

Before you choose any chlorinated flame retardant to use in your polymers, consider its chlorine content, physical form, volatility, and thermal stability. Common examples of CFRs are bis(hexachlorocyclopentadiene)cyclooctane (dechlorane plus), hexachlorocyclopentadienyl-dibromocyclooctane (HCDBCO), and tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP).

b.    Brominated flame retardants

Brominated flame retards make up the largest volume of flame retardants used in the polymer industry today. This popularity is because of the versatility of the group. Brominated flame retardants are easily processable, affordable, possess high flame retardant properties, and impressive chemical properties.

Using brominated flame retardants in combination with minerals also increases the mechanical properties of the polymers they are added to, while reducing the corrosivity and opacity of the fumes released as they burn. These properties make the fire retardant perfect in buying time for the escape of people who are caught in a fire outbreak. The environmental benefit is that there is less emission of toxic fumes into the atmosphere.

Selecting a brominated flame retardant is not as straightforward. There are many factors to put into consideration. Some of these factors include the cost, processing characteristics, type and content of the bromine in the compound, aging characteristics, and UV stability. Other factors include the standards that must be met and the environment.

Being as popular as they are, brominated flame retardants are useful in various applications, such as textiles, construction, furnishing, wire and cable, connectors, printed wiring boards, electronic enclosures, and many more.

Some of the most common examples of brominated flame retardants are polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA).

2.    Phosphorus-based flame retardants

The two common phosphorus-based flame retardants used in polymers are red phosphorus flame retardants and organophosphorus flame retardants.

a.     Red phosphorus flame retardants

You’ll often find red phosphorus (P-red) flame retardants in thermoplastics (polyesters, polyamides, etc), natural fibers (cotton and cellulose), and thermosets (epoxies, polyisocyanates, etc). But its use is limited by color to only gray and black materials.

Ironically, red-phosphorus is an ingredient on the striking surfaces of matches, yet when added in negligible quantities to polymers, retards the propagation of fire. Its flame retardation mechanism is solid-phase char formation.

One of the best things about red phosphorus flame retardants is that they are mostly used to meet high flammability demands. Polymers that have P-red flame retardants in them can withstand up to 320 degrees without decomposing, corroding extrusion equipment, giving off toxic substances, or releasing carbonaceous substances. In addition, they possess remarkable mechanical and electrical purposes.

b.    Organophosphorus flame retardants

The manufacture of thermoplastics alloys is one of the most popular areas of application of organophosphorus flame retardants. PC-ABS and PPO/HIPS are thermoplastic alloys that require specific flame retardant requirements, like the UL94 V0. One of the flame retardants that help these thermoplastic alloys reach these standards is organic phosphorus flame retardants. And in addition, they often impress UV stability on the resin.

Another common space where these flame retardants are used is in the production of polyurethane foams. Apart from their flame retardance, these phosphorus-based flame retardants are used in this application because of their easy processability and impressive physical properties.

There are many other areas of applications of organophosphorus flame retardants. But like every other flame retardant, thoughtful consideration has to be invested into choosing a polymer to use them with. One factor to consider is migration because phosphorus-based flame retardants are likely to migrate out of their base materials after some time. Foam density is another enormous factor when the compound is to be used in flexible PUR foams. Other factors include scorching, viscosity, and fogging.

Examples of organophosphorus flame retardants are tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP), tripentyl phosphate (TPP), tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TDB99), phenyl propan-2-yl hydrogen phosphate (PPHP), and many more.

3.    Melamine Flame Retardants

Melamine flame retardants (MFRs) are a class of non-halogenated flame retardants that break the combustion cycle in polymers through the formation of solid-phase chars. The common subclasses in this class include melamine derivatives (organic or inorganic acids with salts), melamine homologs (such as melem, melon, and melam), and pure melamine itself.

These compounds of melamine may not yet be as popular as the other classes of flame retardants, but they are quickly growing in popularity. And their recent spurt in growth is because of their outstanding performances when it comes to affordability, safe handling, low corrosion, toxicity, and smoke density levels, and their general eco-friendliness. Another reason is the compounds’ ability to retard flame through several mechanisms.

The areas of application of melamine-based flame retardants are polyamides, flexible polyurethane foams, thermoplastic polyurethanes, and intumescent coatings. An example of MFRs is melamine polyphosphate (MPP).

Different Polymers and Their Compatible Flame Retardants

For the various polymers that there are, there are some flame retardants that are most compatible with them. These FRs are often the most widely used and most recommended by manufacturers for use on these polymers. Here are 11 common polymers and their compatible flame retardants:

1.    Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a polymer best known for its high heat stability, toughness, and easy processability. Besides these, it also has remarkable chemical resistance and impact strength. The flame retardants most compatible with ABS are brominated flame retardants. However, the choice of the particular brominated retardant depends on the application.

2.    High Impact Polystyrene

High-impact Polystyrene (HIPS) polymer has a combination of many remarkable properties that make it suitable for various applications. To keep up with its wide applications, a flame retardant that is also suitable for various applications must be used. That is one reason why brominated flame retardants are commonly used in combination with HIPS. Phosphorus flame retardants are, however, the more suitable option for the PPO-HIPS polymer.

3.    Natural and Synthetic Rubbers

We use both natural and synthetic rubbers to make materials like seals, conveyor belts, protective coverings, medical products, etc. And the most compatible flame retardants for these polymers are cross-linked elastomers which make use of aluminum trihydroxide or magnesium dihydroxide.

4.    Polyamide

Polyamide is most commonly used in carpets, textiles, and other areas of applications where its flexibility and strength are needed. Examples of these applications include guitar picks, fishing lines, medical implants, and many more. And for this polymer, magnesium dihydroxide flame retardant is preferred.

5.    Polybutylene Terephthalate

Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) finds its purpose in many household items, such as irons and showerheads. They are also useful in vehicles as plug connectors. Although brominated flame retardants are the best for PBT, careful consideration should be taken to choose one that best suits the purpose.

6.    Polycarbonates

Polycarbonate (PC) has its most common areas of applications in mobile phones, connectors, battery boxes, electrical chargers, and many more. Its toughness, strength, and resistance to high and low temperatures make it suitable for those uses. And after a series of trials, silicon-based flame retardants have been found to be remarkably compatible with PCs.

7.    Polyethylene

Products such as trash bags, grocery bags, squeeze bottles, housewares, and packaging film all depend heavily on polyethylene (PE). PE, in turn, depends on magnesium dihydroxide and aluminum trihydroxide for its flame retardance.

8.    Polyesters

The major area of application of polyester is in the textile industry because it doesn’t wrinkle easily and can also retain its shape after distortion. These properties make it a perfect fit for the clothes that we wear and many other fabrics. And the most commonly used chemicals for inhibiting ignition or burning in polyesters are brominated flame retardants.

9.    Polypropylene

The use of polypropylene cuts across various areas and industries. It has applications in textiles, plastics, packaging, healthcare, automotive, and many more. And magnesium dihydroxide has proven to be one of the most compatible flame retardants with this polymer over time.

10. Polyurethane foams

Apart from seat cushions, polyurethane is also used in bushings for automotive suspensions, carpet underlays, gaskets, and many more. And for these polymers, brominated and phosphorus fire retardants are most compatible. However, the choice of the FR must be tested under the weight of careful considerations because of the high impact these FRs can have on polyurethane foams.

11.    Polyvinyl Chloride

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is probably the most commonly used of all these polymers, with areas of applications in many industries. Name an industry, be it electronics and electrical, automotive, healthcare, or housing and construction. There is a prime chance that PVC is used there. On its own, PVC could be pretty useless. But mix it up with some plasticizers, and you have one of the most widely used polymers in the world. The flame retardant that goes well with this widely used polymer is either aluminum trihydroxide or magnesium dihydroxide.

Flame Retardant Health Concerns

Some of the most common health concerns associated with flame retardants include adverse effects in both animals and humans, such as reproductive toxicity, disruptions to the immune system, cancer, and neurologic functions.

The most vulnerable set of people to the adverse effects of flame retardants are children. Their organs are just developing, and not yet fully equipped to handle the potential hazards that flame retardants expose them to. And the most common culprits among flame retardants that are often responsible for these health risks are brominated flame retardants.

How to Reduce Exposure to Flame Retardants

There are a lot of ways to get exposed to flame retardants. It could be at your workplace, in your diet, vehicle, home, or anywhere else. There isn’t much you could do about coming in contact with flame retardants. But you are not completely helpless against these fire-retarding chemicals. Here are some things you could do to reduce exposure to flame retardants:

• When you need to purchase new products, go for those that are baby-friendly, as they often contain negligible traces of toxic chemicals.
• Go for furniture made from cotton, wool, or polyester instead of polyurethane foams.
• The surrounding dust could carry traces of these chemicals. So, provide good ventilation systems in all the rooms you’ll be spending a lot of time in.
• Washing your hands is highly underrated. But this simple practice can save you a lot of doctors’ appointments down the line. Always wash your hands.

To help you stay ahead of the game concerning the health hazards of flame retardants and to keep you safe from any other potentially toxic chemicals, use these government platforms:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Consumer Product Safety Commission
• National Toxicology Program
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Here is an example of Flame Retardents being demonstrated in a controlled environment

Video credit to: Commercial Products USA

Shipping Bulk Flame Retardants With Total Connection

What makes bulk flame retardants tricky to transport is that many of the chemicals are regarded as hazardous materials (HAZMAT). And because of this hazardous nature, a lot of care, planning, and consideration has to be put into the transporting of these materials. And with the ever-vigilant eyes of strict regulatory bodies (such as the United States Department of Transportation) monitoring your bulk flame retardant shipping, there’s no space for a misstep.

For this reason, leave the shipping of your bulk flame retardants in the hands of only the experienced and competent. And this is exactly what you’ll get with Total Connection logistics services.

Total Connection helps you handle your bulk flame retardant transport from loading down to offloading. You give the order, and you get your order as soon as you want it and where you want it. It’s that simple!

Your company too can enjoy an efficient supply chain, affordable shipping, and tailor-made services that the clients of Total Connection logistics company enjoy when you fill out the brief quote form below.