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Don't Compromise
Gasil® Silicas for Polymer Applications
Polymer processing is both complex and difficult as it typically involves the interaction of many variables. Potential problems with dosing of resins and additives, difficulties with powder handling, and blocking, nesting and plate-out problems can mean that the polymer processor has to compromise balance of properties in the final product.
The addition of small quantities of INEOS Silicas Gasil® synthetic amorphous silicas reduces or eliminates these problems without having to compromise the properties required for the end application.
Product Attributes
Low Abrasivity
Gasil® synthetic silicas are porous, non-crystalline, soft honeycomb structures of low Moh's hardness, minimising wear on processing equipment.
Ease of Dispersion
Incorporation of additives into polymer resin is a critical operation since poor dispersion will reduce efficiency. The extent of dispersion is generally dependent upon the type of equipment used.
Gasil® synthetic silicas have been specifically tailored to provide optimal dispersion characteristics with batch/internal (Banbury-type) mixers, twin and single screw, low and high shear extrusion systems, low shear powder mixing and low shear Z-blade mixers for plastisols. GasilŪ synthetic silicas can be mixed with the resin by adding the final concentration necessary to obtain the desired effects either via direct addition or via a compacted blend with other polymer additives. Alternatively they can be used to prepare a masterbatch that can subsequently be diluted during fabrication to give the desired concentration.
Choosing the Correct Gasil® Silica for Your Application
Choosing the optimal Gasil® product will depend on several factors including, base resin, extent of problem, method of manufacture, additive systems in use and other variables based on application. INEOS Silica produces a range of Gasil® Silicas of different structures and particle sizes for use in polymer applications. Behind the GasilŪ name is a global team responsible for product application and technical support. A combination of polymer industry and silica particle technologists provides the knowledge to deliver solutions. For assistance, please contact your local office, or alternatively send an e-mail to: techsupport@ineossilicas.com
Storage and Handling
Gasil® sythetic silicas should be stored in unopened bags in a dry cool place. Storage temperatures should be less than 30°C/86°F. Material older than 1 year, should be discarded.
Health and Safety
Gasil® synthetic silicas are fine, light powders which are non-silicotic. Synthetic amorphous silica is approved as a food additive (E551). Material Safety Data Sheets providing detailed toxicological and handling information on all Gasil® synthetic silica products are available on request.
Benefits of Gasil® Silicas for use in Polymer Processing
- Excellent Dispersibility.
Excellent dispersibility is achieved within the polymer matrix through the optimal balance of pore volume and surface area within the GasilŪ silica structure.
- Clarity
The refractive index of silica is comparable to polyolefin resins.
- Colour Generation
Excellent yellowing performance is achieved as GasilŪ silicas are synthetic materials containing low levels of trace metals that are manufactured from high quality feedstocks.
- Low Abrasivity
Wear on processing equipment is minimised due the soft honeycomb structure of GasilŪ synthetic silicas. These structures are sufficiently strong to resist mechanical attrition during processing but soft enough to minimise wear on processing equipment
- FDA and BGA Food Approval
Gasil® synthetic silicas are non-crystalline and have full FDA and BGA approvals.
- Non-Toxic/Odourless/ Non- Tainting.
- Gasil® synthetic silicas are inorganic and do not effect taint, odour or toxicity.
- Consistently Reproducible Product Quality.
- Consistent performance is delivered due to the precisely controlled particle size, particle size distribution, surface area and pore volume of GasilŪ silicas.
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