Jun 7 2007
PolyOne Corporation today introduced its new patent-pending PicoTint(TM) Liquid Colorants, which are ideal for use with a wide range of clear thermoplastic engineering resins such as polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA), styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), clear acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), glycolized polyester (PETG) and terpolymers.
"We leveraged our in-depth resin and compounding knowledge to create a polymer-based carrier for our liquid colorants. This new technology offers thermal stability and processability that were previously unattainable," said John Van Hulle, vice president and general manager, North American Color for PolyOne color and additives products and services. "As a result, our customers are now able to use liquid colorants in new applications instead of pre- colored resins or pelletized colorant masterbatches."
PolyOne's liquid colorants use a polymer-based carrier instead of traditional oil- or surfactant-based carriers. As a result, PicoTint colorants are heat and light stable, weather well and have an extended shelf life of at least one year. PicoTint colorants have superior pigment and dye dispersion, which resists streaks or swirls. In addition, PicoTint colorants have excellent clarity and do not affect the physical properties of the clear engineering resin up to 0.5 percent.
Processors and compounders can use PicoTint colorants in extrusion, blow molding and injection molding processes in low let-down ratios of 0.25 percent or less. PolyOne's liquid colorants can be introduced downstream in the manufacturing process, resulting in faster color changeover. In addition, liquid colorants require less storage space and reduce inventory cost compared with pre-colored resins or color concentrates.
PicoTint liquid colorants are ideal in applications where clear, bright color is needed, including automotive applications such as taillights, turn signals and headlights; durable houseware and appliance applications; electronics; office applications such as furniture; industrial applications such as thermoforming or extrusion sheets; and point-of-purchase displays.