Additives

In plastics engineering, additives play a decisive role and are often referred to as additives. These additives are substances that can be used to specifically change the properties of plastics in order to meet certain requirements or to achieve improved performance characteristics. They are added during the manufacturing process in order to modify or optimise the mechanical, thermal, electrical or chemical properties of the plastic.

There is a wide variety of additives that can be used depending on the area of application and the desired end product. These include, for example, plasticisers, stabilisers, fillers, colourants, flame retardants and antioxidants. Each of these additives fulfils a specific function and contributes to improving or modifying the plastic's properties.

Plasticisers, for example, are used to increase the flexibility and elasticity of plastics, while stabilisers serve to improve the chemical and thermal stability of the material and to protect it from degradation by heat, light or other environmental influences. Fillers can be added to increase the strength and rigidity of the plastic or to reduce costs by extending the material.

The selection and dosage of additives is generally carried out taking into account various factors such as the properties of the base plastic, the requirements of the end product, the processing conditions and the environmental impacts. Effective use of additives can help to improve the performance, durability and versatility of plastics and to expand their possible applications in various industries.