Peter Shelsey Solera

Measuring Stabilizers in Pigmented Plastics with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has become a commonplace analytical tool in the plastics industry. NIR techniques have made quantification of many organic components in polymer processing easy and quick. The work presented in this paper outlines the methodology for using NIR to measure stabilizer levels in color concentrates and natural polymer formulations. Advantages and limitations are considered as well as particle size and product form.

New High Performance Light Stabilizer Systems for Molded-in Color TPOs: An Update

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses new performance light stabilizer systems for molded-in color TPOs. Thermoplastic olefins (TPOs) have enjoyed double digit growth in automotive applications. This outstanding growth is due primarily to the excellent mechanical and physical properties possible with TPO combined with a relatively low cost. However, this strong growth is also partly because of the exceptional durability and weatherability imparted by photostabilizers. The ability to mold TPO in a wide array of colors and textures makes it an attractive material of choice for many applications for both exterior and interior automotive components. In addition, molded-in color can provide OEMs with substantial cost savings compared to current basecoat operations. This combination of physical properties, styling flexibility, and cost savings provides a large incentive for the continued growth of TPO in automotive components. More specifically, this chapter documents the outstanding activity of several new light stabilizer systems in molded-in color TPOs. Finally, these novel systems are compared to current high performance light stabilizer systems in pigmented EPDM and single site catalysis (SSC) plastomer modified TPOs, and in a reactor grade TPO.