Due to continual innovations in polymer engineering and processing, manufacturers in a range of industries are increasingly reliant on plastics for today’s demanding applications. However, ordinary plastics are not able to withstand exposure to challenging environments without polymer additives to reinforce strength, durability and long-term performance. With over 60 years of experience, Syensqo is an industry leader in the development of high-performing polymer additives. We utilize a focused approach as we work with our customers to develop plastic additives that meet the unique needs of a range of market segments. From highly efficient UV light stabilizers to durable antistatic agents and antioxidants for polyolefins, Syensqo’s scientists are experts at creating sustainable additive solutions that improve the quality, service life and performance of plastics in a variety of applications.
Through unmatched industry experience and innovation, we provide customers with a versatile portfolio of UV light stabilizer solutions that not only provide excellent UV durability but also address evolving unmet needs in the markets we serve.
UV Light Stabilizers
Although some high-performing plastics can retain significant strength in demanding environments, exposure to light, heat and oxygen can promote degradation in plastics. Manufacturers rely on light stabilizers to remain confident in the physical and aesthetic properties of their plastic components. Syensqo’s portfolio encompasses a range of chemistries, including hindered amine light stabilizers (commonly known as HALS), HALS-based additive solutions, hindered benzoates and UV absorbers. Whether manufacturers are searching for plastic additives targeting specific applications and industries, or require a versatile UV light stabilizer to use in a variety of durable applications, they can rely on the broad portfolio of light stabilizers and UV absorbers from Syensqo.
Specialty plastics used in demanding conditions require specific stabilization solutions that enable customers to meet industry performance requirements. Syensqo develops HALS-based additive solutions that provide outstanding UV light resistance in all applications, as well as additional benefits such as agrochemical and heat resistance in greenhouse films and low fogging in automotive parts.
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® A400
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® A430
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® B877
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® B878T
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® L143-50X
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® M528
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® M535
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® R333
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® R350
- CYASORB CYNERGY SOLUTIONS® V703
- CYASORB THT® 4611
- CYASORB THT® 4801
- CYASORB THT® 6460
- CYASORB THT® 7001 EF
- CYASORB® CYXTRA® V9900
- CYASORB® UV-3808PP5
Hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) are powerful additives for polyolefins that trap carbon- and oxygen-centered radicals to prevent polymer degradation. This chemistry is designed to decompose alkyl hydroperoxides and regenerate active species for effective long-term performance. Customers should look for HALS from Syensqo that exhibit high compatibility in their desired applications for maximum stabilization efficiency.
Typically used in combination with other UV light stabilizers, hindered benzoates improve the resistance of polyolefins against damaging UV radiation through a radical scavenging mechanism.
UV Absorbers
Over the life cycle of plastic goods, UV energy can lead to radical formation and polymer degradation, which reduces the usability, functionality and safety of products. UV absorbers utilized in UV screens and coatings prevent the transmission of UV energy and protect UV-sensitive materials from damage caused by radicals. UV absorbers have different properties, melting points, volatility, solubility and absorption spectra that manufacturers must consider to find the best additive match for their polymer type and end-use product. Syensqo offers the plastic industry a range of benzotriazoles, benzoxazinones, benzophenones and triazines as high-performing UV absorbers.
This class of UV light absorbers demonstrates impressive UV absorption from 300 to 380 nanometers, commonly used to enhance the durability of a wide range of engineering plastics and polyolefins.
Frequently used in polyolefin applications, benzophenones are versatile UV light absorbers that can be incorporated in a range of polymeric products. This chemistry offers impressive absorbency across the UV spectrum and remains stable throughout processing.
Benzoxazinones serve as powerful UV light absorbers across the broad spectrum of UV light, especially for UVA radiation from 320 to 380 nanometers. This chemistry is more commonly used with polar polymers, such as PET and PC, and is especially effective in applications such as PET bottles and electronic displays. Benzoxazinones exhibit high thermal stability, with a TGA(10%) of 371°C for the most demanding processing environments.
Triazines offer excellent protection across the UV spectrum and are particularly effective at absorbing UVB radiation. Commonly used as UV light absorbers for polyolefins, triazines offer stability throughout high-temperature processing with a TGA(10%) of 347°C.
Antioxidants
Throughout the production of plastics, degradation and processing demands can decrease the strength and stability of plastic components. Antioxidants contribute to extending the service life of plastics by minimizing physical property changes throughout thermal processing, including extrusion, injection molding, blow molding and rotational molding. Antioxidants for polyolefins improve the weatherability of UV stabilized systems and enhance durability in plastics under moderate-to-high temperature conditions. Designed to work in synergy with other plastic additives, such as UV light stabilizers, absorbers and antistatic agents, Syensqo’s antioxidants are engineered to make polymeric products perform better for longer, promote a circular economy, and reduce plastic waste.
The primary function of hindered phenols is to prevent radical propagation through proton donation to radical species in moderate-to-high temperature processing environments. Hindered phenols act as radical scavengers by donating hydrogen atoms to nearby radicals, reducing the likelihood of polymer degradation. Syensqo’s hindered phenolic antioxidants provide low volatility, high efficiency, gas fade resistance, and hydrolysis resistance for implementation in a wide range of applications.
- CYANOX® 1790
- CYANOX® 2246
- CYANOX® 425
Working in synergy with a primary hindered phenol, a secondary phosphite antioxidant blend provides outstanding processing and in-service stabilization of polyolefins and other polymers.
Antistatic Agents
Manufacturers rely on polymer additives, such as antistatic agents, to limit the electrostatic discharge in a range of high-performing plastic components. The adherence of charged particles can cause a variety of problems in plastic applications that can impact product performance and longevity, including attracting dust and dirt to finish products, damaging electronic microunits, and igniting flammable liquids and gases.
This chemical class of antistatic agents for polyolefins and other plastics prevents electrostatic discharge for safer, more durable and longer-lasting plastics in a variety of applications. Quaternary ammonium salts are able to eliminate electrostatic charge buildup on non-metallic surfaces, ensuring optimal product functionality and durability.
