Teknor Apex and Takemoto develop masterbatches for PLA bioplastic

A NEW series of masterbatches for polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastic increases the heat distortion temperature (HDT) and impact strength of the resin and substantially reduces its cooling time in injection molding, making possible semi-durable and durable applications which until now have been closed to standard PLA, was announced by Teknor Apex Company. This new product will be introduced at NPE2015 (Booth S24055).

 

Terraloy 90017A and 90017B masterbatches are based on, and are for use with, Ingeo High Performance (HP) resin. NatureWorks LLC has developed Ingeo HP resin to provide a higher HDT and greater impact strength than standard PLA, when used with a nucleating agent such as LAK-301 from Takemoto Oil & Fat Co., Ltd.

 

Teknor Apex entered into a strategic alliance with Takemoto Oil & Fat to develop the new masterbatches based on NatureWorks Ingeo biopolymers 

 

While the nucleating agent can play a critical role in reducing cooling time by promoting the crystallization of PLA, it is difficult to disperse properly in the HP polymer. Combining the nucleating agent with other ingredients, Teknor Apex not only improved dispersion but enhanced the overall property profile of the resin, while shortening cooling time from nearly 300 seconds to less than 40 (see graphs).

 

NatureWorks  will also exhibit at NPE2015 (Booth S35041).