To meet the need for better stabilisation in recycled polymers, German plastics additives manufacturer Baerlocher (Unterschleißheim; www.baerlocher.de) has launched a range of blends that incorporate its newly developed antioxidant technology. Following research and development at subsidiary Baerlocher USA, the group has introduced "Baeropol" resin stabilisation technology (RST), which reduces or eliminates secondary antioxidant phosphites while maintaining similar or improved resin properties.

The RST technology is now incorporated into Baeropol T-Blends, a line of preformulated polymer stabilisation One-Packs that have been designed for the PE and PP recycling industries. Baerlocher said nearly all recycled polymer is currently deficient in stabilisation, posing a challenge for converters.

The blends incorporate both primary antioxidants for the product’s long-term stability as well as secondary antioxidants for stability of the melt comparable to the primary resin. In addition, they optimise rheology and colour stability during multiple passes through extruders. CEO Arne Schulle said the technology is based on the company’s extensive experience in oleochemistry and launches Baerlocher into a new business environment. RST is made from additives generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration for all food-contact applications, thus eliminating the need for lengthy approvals.

Baerlocher introduced the technology at “K 2016” which is currently underway in Düsseldorf / Germany until 26 October.