Polymer processing aid for polyolefin compositions
Applicant: Schulman plastics (Lyondellbasell)
Inventor(s): Jan Hoogewys, Joris Briers, Ann Swinnen, María Mercedes Díaz Acevedo
Patent number: WO2026/195363
Publication date: 2026-09-24
Website: www.lyondellbasell.com
Field of invention
The present disclosure relates to polymer processing aids for polyolefin compositions and the methods of using the same. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to polymer processing aids that are substantially free of fluorine-containing compounds and their use in polyolefin compositions, like in linear low density polyethylene compositions, in particular to produce blown or cast films.
Problem
There is still a need to find alternative PPAs that do not include fluoropolymers and/or fluorine-containing compounds for use in polyethylene compositions, in particular in LLDPE compositions, while still maintaining effectiveness in preventing melt fractures during polymer manufacturing processes, like during blown film and cast film processing, and in reducing the die build up.
Solution
In a first aspect of the present disclosure, it is provided a fluorine-free polymer processing aid (PPA) comprising one or more fatty acids metal salts (A) and one or more fatty acids esters (B), wherein the amount of the one or more fatty acids metal salts (A) in the fluorine-free polymer processing aid is equal to or greater than the amount of the one or more fatty acids esters (B).
Advantages
The invention offers a fluorine-free alternative to conventional fluoropolymer-based processing aids, addressing environmental and health concerns. It effectively reduces melt fracture and die build up in extrusion, improving film quality and process productivity. The processing aid uses specific ratios of fatty acid metal salts and esters, particularly magnesium salts and glycerol esters of C16-C18 fatty acids, providing stable and efficient performance in polyolefin extrusion.
A fluorine-free polymer processing aid comprising one or more fatty acids metal salts (A) and one or more fatty acids esters (B), wherein the amount of the one or more fatty acids metal salts (A) in the fluorine-free polymer processing aid is equal to or greater than the amount of the one or more fatty acids esters (B).
