Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting face mask shortages, nonwoven distributors are turning to Kraton MD1648™ to meet rising demands for filter components, which are used as a modifier for high flow PP resins in melt blown processes to enhance elasticity and to minimize fiber breaks. These melt-blown nonwovens are being used as face mask filter media.
Benefits of Kraton MD1648™
Due to its molecular design, Kraton MD1648™ offers the highest melt flow and lowest viscosity. The very high melt flow makes it easy to apply, mold, cast or process with low residual stress while using processes specifically requiring low viscosity.
The low viscosity allows for higher throughput or lower operating temperatures while potentially eliminating the need for plasticizers. This results in lower electricity usage during formulating or compounding, and less pressure during molding, with the potential for faster cycle times.
Another benefit of its low viscosity, Kraton MD1648™ enables significant dispersion improvements. This minimizes agglomeration of additives and pigments, which can improve capabilities to achieve bright or dark colors.
Applications of Kraton MD1648™:
- Low application temperature hot melt adhesives
- Textile adhesives for sew-free assembly
- High flow PP modifier
- Oil/plasticizer-free compounds
- PP/long glass fiber composites for enhanced impact
- Breathable, elastic melt blown nonwovens
- Masterbatch carrier for difficult additives and pigments
- High flow automotive compounds
- Soft, transparent polypropylene compounds
- PVC alternate formulations for molded and extruded goods
Source: Kraton