LUVOBATCH® customized Masterbatches

LUVOBATCH® supplies high-performance additives and masterbatches for the plastics processing industry. Our dedicated team of experts provides maximum flexibility and individual service.

We provide clarity

Are you looking for additives to prevent fogging on clear packaging? LUVOBATCH® offers specially developed antifogging agents which are also suitable for direct contact with food. The result always shows your product in the best light.

Antifog for food packaging

Moist fresh produce, such as meat and fruit, is largely bought on the basis of its visual appearance. Supermarket customers use their eyes to convince themselves that the food is fresh. Transparent foil packaging is therefore a must. Yet clouded foil will quickly cause customers to doubt its freshness. Antifog masterbatches by LUVOBATCH® ensure that a thin transparent film of water forms instead of droplets (condensation). This is of special concern for fresh goods.

Fresh stays fresh

Our masterbatches for food contact undergo extensive testing and are suitable for packaging food. Even when the material is subjected to temperature fluctuations and stored in the cooling chain for several days, there is no migration of constituents of the masterbatch to the food.

Note: According to European food legislation, this has to be demonstrated on every package design.

With full transparency

Thanks to a film extruder in our in-house pilot plant, we at LUVOBATCH® can also provide you with active support in the production of multilayer films. On request, we will carry out test production runs on our machines and thus optimize the additive content of our masterbatches fully in line with your requirements.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Easy separation of plastic and metal

Whether for plastic or hot melt, separating plastics becomes effortless thanks to LUVOBATCH® release agents. The use of our highly advance additive masterbatches allows metal and polymers or two films to be separated cleanly. Precise coordination means that the remaining properties of the plastic are not affected at all or only to an insignificant degree.

Countering all resistance

Excess adhesion of plastic components in the tool during mould removal obstructs the production process and incurs additional costs. This is where we come in with our specially developed, highly effective and compatible release agents: we supply individual, cost-effective solutions so that you can be sure of smooth processing.

Our service: comprehensive individual preliminary tests

We shall be pleased to conduct exhaustive trials with your product to find out whether use of the masterbatches has any undesired effects, what form these will take and how they can be minimized or avoided via adaptations to the formulation or process. This enables our specialists to enter into a dialogue and determine the most cost-effective alternatives for you.

Effectively counteracting electrostatics

Hydrophilic additives migrate independently to the surface and bond water molecules to form a film that wets the surface of the plastic. The resulting antistatic effect acts on materials such as films, plastic packaging and plastic fibres. If migrating constituents are not wanted or permitted in the film, we offer you masterbatches on the basis of permanent antistatic agents.

Fighting dust and sparks

Dust attraction and spark discharge – a frequent and often problematic annoyance in the production and transport process. The resistances on the surfaces of plastics lead to insulating properties, with electrostatic charge build-up being the result. This can result in contact discharge and even fires. We have developed masterbatches that effectively prevent this.

Let’s develop together

In our pilot plant we offer you the option of developing the perfect solution for your requirements for conductive materials in a process of direct and comprehensive exchange with us. Simply contact us and tell us what you want. Together we will develop your personal optimum!

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Protecting machines, optimizing processes

Antiblock by LUVOBATCH®: We supply antiblock additives with a high level of adaptability, specially tailored to your requirements. These additives develop a special effect in the production of multilayer films by preventing the individual film layers from sticking together or adhering to machine parts during processing. An ultra/thin, non/migratory film with good lubricating properties forms on the surface and increases the gliding quality and scratch resistance of the film. Antiblock masterbatches thus ensure process optimization during the production and processing of films and reduce wear on the machinery employed. As the choice of additive can affect the transparency of the film, we will be glad to advise you on selecting the appropriate formulation for your application.

Optics in focus

For applications with very high demands on the optical qualities, we recommend masterbatches with special, particularly fine-grained additives that will not influence the sensitive optical properties of your film.

No more sticking

Small adaptation, great difference: in order to prevent films “sticking together” – due to adhesion – the individually adapted concentration and the shape of the antiblock particles are extremely important.

Effective and personal

If antiblock masterbatches are to function perfectly in a wide range of applications, a finely adjusted formulation of active substance and particle type is required. In our pilot plant we offer the right environment to embark on your own personal solution in close collaboration. In many cases, it is recommended that the antiblock additive should be formulated with other additives to form a combi-batch and adapt the formulation to the relevant production process.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Everything runs more smoothly with LUVOBATCH®

Influence the gliding characteristics of your film with additives that optimize the external (tribological) slip behaviour.

Fast-running processes

External lubricants do not form any compounds with the polymer – they are conveyed to the surface by migration and create an invisible yet persistent ‘lubricating film’. Fast-running processes are adversely affected by high coefficients of friction. We lower your coefficient of friction.

A broad spectrum of options

LUVOBATCH® also guarantees a smooth process where lubricants are concerned. This not only applies to your subsequent production operations but also to the creation and production of your personal lubricant formulation. The more precisely we know your application, the better we will also be able to optimize your demanding extrusion processes by selectively adapting the formulation.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure

The perfect combination of chemistry and physics

Chemical blowing agents are reactive additives that liberate gases during the processing of thermoplastics. They thus make it possible to produce foamed plastics for a wide variety of applications. A thermally activated decomposition reaction of the additives contained in the blowing agents results in gases being eliminated and hence to the production of a stable, defined plastic foam.

There are two main groups of blowing agents, which differ fundamentally according to their reaction mechanism:

  • Endothermic (heat consuming) and
  • Exothermic (heat releasing) blowing agents

Blowing agents are mainly employed in order to reduce density, which leads to a weight reduction in the end product and a decrease in costs. Additional or enhanced product characteristics are another advantage of using chemical blowing agents.

Examples of this are:

  • Improved heat and noise insulation
  • Improved dielectric properties
  • Improved shock-absorbing properties
  • Avoidance of sink marks during injection moulding
  • Decorative effects

Endothermic blowing agents

When heat is added, these blowing agents decompose and generate environmentally neutral gases. Often these gases are carbon dioxide and water vapour – the most well-known active ingredients are carbonates and carboxylic acids. As heat is consumed in order to initiate and propagate the reaction, the substances are referred to as endothermic blowing agents. Their advantage lies in the fact that when the heat supply is interrupted, gas production comes to a standstill and resumes if further heat input is provided. Consequently, endothermic blowing agents are easy to manage during processing. Many of the endothermic blowing agents that we employ are approved for use with food and can thus be included in many packaging solutions.

Exothermic agents

After an initiation process using radiation, heat or other forms of energy, exothermic blowing agents liberate heat and gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide or ammonia when they decompose. The decomposition reaction then continues running independently due to the liberated heat and cannot be stopped by simple cooling measures. In contrast to endothermic blowing agents, significantly higher gas yields can be achieved with exothermic blowing agents. Using supplementary additives we are able to influence the starting energy and hence the initial decomposition temperature.

We promote development

Our know-how in process engineering makes us one of the leading suppliers of blowing agents. This is because blowing agents impose high demands on development and production due to their latent tendency to decompose when incorrectly handled in powder form. Our individually prepared solutions of endothermic and/or exothermic blowing agents cater to all wishes for modifications.

In addition to the combinations of endothermic and exothermic blowing agents, we also supply chemical blowing agents as a nucleation agent for physical and chemical foaming. If especially fine and even foam structures are required, nucleation is the best strategy.

You can obtain further information from our product brochure.

Discreet and durable marking

Even tiny details can be engraved on the surface of the component and thus be safely protected against frictional damage, chemicals or weathering. The plastic should be prepared for this process by using special masterbatches. LUVOBATCH® has developed the appropriate solutions for you.

Laser marking in use

Laser marking was originally developed for labelling computer keyboards and has found countless other applications over the years. Thanks to this technology, we are now able to permanently mark components as well as include copy protection codes and serial numbers. Logos can also be firmly attached. Laser marking is the lasting solution regardless of quantity and material (e.g. polymers, metals or ceramic).

Raising productivity with processing aids

If you wish to optimize extrusion, increase output and reduce energy consumption, our masterbatches as processing aids are practically indispensable.

A layer of molecules

LUVOBATCH® processing aids employ fluoropolymers that adhere exceptionally well to metals and thus act like a lubricating layer. The benefits are many and varied: surface energy is low, melts flow faster, more evenly and with less risk of breakage, while sharkskin is avoided. Deposits on the dies decrease, the surface of films and profiles acquire a high quality. Processing temperatures and wear also decline. Despite all of these benefits, low dosage levels are sufficient while subsequent processing steps such as printing, sealing or shrink-wrapping are not affected.

Ultra-fine coordination for optimum results

Another special feature of LUVOBATCH® is that as a worldwide supplier we are also able to provide this elegant solution of a processing aid on the basis of EVOH! Discuss your specific requirements with us – the experts in our company will be able to advise you on the basis of their many years of experience and the latest scientific findings.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Perfect protection through antioxidants

These highly developed masterbatches prevent any damage to the plastic due to UV radiation or heat. Decomposition reactions due to free radicals that damage the polymer chains are impressively restricted by LUVOBATCH®.

Radical scavengers and decomposers

The use of radical scavengers and antioxidants reduces loss of gloss, discolorations and functional limitations such as chalking and embrittlement.

A broad range for thermal stabilization

We put together masterbatches for all applications: whether for sheet and film extrusion, blow moulding, injection moulding, profiles or fibre extrusion. Our range covers processing aids, alkaline stabilization and long-term thermal stabilization products as well as metal deactivating agents. As a matter of course, we will also be pleased to offer your combinations of several additives in one combi-batch in order to meet your requirements.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Light resistance par excellence

UV stabilizers by LUVOBATCH® are the perfect protection for thermoplastic resins. Our products in the field of UV protection offer a variety of benefits such as the avoidance of discolorations, colour stability, a lack of inherent colour and a low tendency to migrate.

Absorbers, HALS, quenchers

Owing to its high energy value, UV radiation can destroy polymers in a very short time – particularly when acting in conjunction with harmful environmental factors. Surfaces become matt and form chalky deposits, with cracks and decomposition following. Masterbatches by LUVOBATCH® offer a number of solutions that can be adjusted to coordinate with each other in order to combat this problem: UV absorbers, HALS (hindered amine light stabilizers) and quenchers. The absorbers filter the harmful components of light and transform them into heat. HALS prevent the reactions of photoxidation products such as peroxides and radicals on surfaces and in deeper layers. Quenchers deactivate the harmful radicals.

We bring light in to your business

LUVOBATCH® is characterized by a comprehensive product range dealing with the topic of "light resistance". Ecological and economic considerations go hand in hand in this respect. Come and talk to us now.

You can obtain further information on film masterbatches in our product brochure.

Visibly better solutions for invisible light

Horticulture and agriculture are fields in which it particularly makes sense to regulate IR radiation. In addition to protecting against damage from radiation, our film masterbatches also help to support plant growth. Crops are supplied evenly with heat stored during the day and discharged at night. As a result, growth is faster and more uniform.

Tests in natural surroundings

Our masterbatches contain special additives that absorb infrared radiation effectively and quickly. To achieve a perfect balance of additives, we not only use the findings from our laboratory operations but also employ results from applications carried out directly under natural (outdoor) conditions.

Know-how in flame protection

Flame protection is extremely important in electrical engineering, construction and transport as well as in the field of textiles. The large number of available additives with their different properties and interactions with polymers demand a high degree of expertise in order to achieve the optimum flame-resistant finish for the plastic components. Our team brings its many years of experience and expertise in the development and production of flame-retardant masterbatches and compounds to bear and will develop the best solution customized to your specific application.

Free of halogens

Our masterbatches guarantee comprehensive flame protection for polymers – in compliance with many national and international regulations. Ecological aspects are increasingly directing developments in the field of flame protection towards halogen-free solutions. We supply corresponding alternatives on the basis of phosphorus and/or nitrogen, allowing you to provide an efficient and halogen-free finish for your components.

These flame retardants act using a variety of chemical or physical mechanisms. Certain active substances, for instance, work by cooling while others function by diluting or forming a protective layer. Generally the required quantity of active substance is significantly higher than that for comparable systems based on bromine, which can also be detected by a more prominent change in mechanical properties.

Typical flame retardants

HalogenatedOrganic bromine compounds, chlorinated compounds
Halogen-freeMineral-based flame-retardant additives (aluminium trihydrate, magnesium hydroxide), organic phosphorus compounds, nitrogen-based flame-retardant additives

typical-flame-retardants.pdf

Halogenated LUVOBATCH® FR products

Halogenated flame retardants act in the gaseous phase by interrupting the radical reactions. The energy-rich H and OH radicals produced in the event of a fire are neutralized and are thus made unavailable for further reactions. Brominated flame-retardants are the most effective, in terms of both performance and costs, and can be used for practically all applications. This high level of efficacy means that the additional properties of polymers with this flame-resistant finish are less adversely affected than in other systems.

Compounds with and without halogens

Some fire safety requirements such a UL94 V0 are very difficult to achieve with masterbatches. For this reason, we supply compounds based on halogenated and halogen-free flame retardants that can be used directly to meet these demanding applications.

Your benefits:

  • No metering
  • High product reliability
  • Ease of handling

Possible drawbacks:

  • Reduced flexibility
  • Possibly higher costs

You can obtain further information from our product brochure on flame retardants.

 

Learn more about customized masterbatches from Lehmann&Voss&Co.: www.luvobatch.com

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