Töltelékanyagok

Töltelékanyagok, commonly referred to as fillers, are substances added to materials to reduce cost, improve workability, or enhance specific physical properties. They are widely used across various industries, including plastics, rubber, paints, coatings, adhesives, and construction. The primary function of a filler is often to extend the bulk of the primary material.

Fillers can be broadly categorized as organic or inorganic. Inorganic fillers, such as calcium carbonate, kaolin, talc, silica, and titanium dioxide, are prevalent due to their availability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to impart desirable characteristics like rigidity, opacity, and flame retardancy. Organic fillers, like wood flour, cellulose fibers, and various polymers, are also employed, often contributing to flexibility or specific aesthetic qualities.

The selection of a filler depends heavily on the application and the desired outcome. For instance, in plastics, fillers can increase stiffness, reduce shrinkage, and improve impact strength. In paints, titanium dioxide is a crucial filler that provides opacity and whiteness. In rubber manufacturing, carbon black is a common reinforcing filler that significantly enhances tensile strength and abrasion resistance.

Particle size, shape, and surface chemistry of the filler are critical factors influencing its performance. Smaller particle sizes generally lead to better dispersion and improved mechanical properties. Surface treatments are often applied to fillers to improve their compatibility with the matrix material, leading to better adhesion and overall performance. The cost-effectiveness of fillers makes them indispensable in modern manufacturing, allowing for the production of a wide range of materials with tailored properties.