BASF Polyurethanes has developed a new antistatic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) granulate under the Elastostat brand name in its TPU portfolio.
Available as a masterbatch (ready-to-use granular mix) the new Elastostat material is part of the well-established BASF Elastollan product range. As well as being easy to process, the material is said to be “highly compatible” with standard plastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and ABS.
With 7.5 to 15 volume percent of the antistatic TPU masterbatch added, the properties of the matrix materials are said to be “scarcely affected” and, thanks to the additive’s neutral coloration, the material can be dyed in any desired colour.
“Elastostat has the edge over existing solutions in that its antistatic effect is permanent and does not require any specific ambient conditions such as a certain atmospheric humidity,” the company says.
Fields of application for the new TPU masterbatch include industrial packaging made of polyolefins, such as large bags, plastic drums or cans, Intermediate Bulk Containers and electronics packaging.
“Antistatic treatment is an absolute must for containers in which combustible liquids or dusty goods are transported,” BASF says.
The TPU additive can also be used in pipelines, hoses and conveyor belts to prevent the electrostatic charging of the transported material.
According to BASF, the “exceptional properties” of Elastostat are its permanent antistatic effect, mechanical properties such as improved impact resistance, and compatibility with non-polar polymers. Its antistatic effect and compatibility have been demonstrated in “extensive” tests, and the homogeneous polymer matrix shows “no tendency to delaminate”.
“BASF further adapts the performance profile of the antistatic TPU to customer applications and requirements and thus develops tailor-made solutions in partnership with the customer,” the company says.
BASF will be exhibiting at the K show in Düsseldorf, 16-23 October 2013; Hall 5, Booth C21/D21.
