Bringing together dissimilar materials

Compatibilisers and coupling agents play a crucial role in combining different polymers and enhancing processing, mechanical properties, and appearance. Companies like Kenrich Petrochemicals are introducing innovative products like Ken-React KR PTOA, a titanate coupling agent made from pine-tree based oleic acid to meet the demand for renewably sourced materials. They also have an existing commercial plant-based titanate, Ken-React KR TTS, based on isostearic acid derived from rapeseed.

Additionally, companies like BYK USA are addressing the need for bio-based and biodegradable additives for PLA and PLA-blends, with products like SCONA modifiers that act as compatibilisers and toughness modifiers. Interface Polymers is preparing to start production for its Polarfin di-block polymer compatibilisers to reduce flow defects and gels in mixed plastic recycling streams. Other companies like BASF, Dow, and SK Functional Polymer are also focusing on developing compatibilisers to improve the recyclability of multilayer films and blends of PE and EVOH from recycled films.

Moreover, Ingenia Polymers has introduced INCIRCLE IP1601, a masterbatch that enables the recycling of film structures containing polyamide and EVOH, supporting the industry's sustainability goals. The product allows for the recycling of film structures with higher levels of polyamide and EVOH and shows promising results in recycling PE/PET lamination structures.

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