plastisaattoreina

Plastisaattoreina, also known as plasticizers, are additives that are incorporated into plastics to increase their flexibility, workability, and extensibility. They function by embedding themselves between polymer chains, reducing the intermolecular forces and allowing the chains to slide past each other more easily. This process lowers the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer, making it softer and more pliable.

The selection of a plasticizer depends on the type of polymer being modified and the desired properties of the final product. Common plasticizers include phthalates, adipates, and citrates. Phthalates have been widely used due to their effectiveness and low cost, but concerns about their potential health effects have led to a search for alternatives. Adipates are often used in applications requiring low-temperature flexibility, while citrates are favored for their non-toxic properties and are frequently found in food contact materials and medical devices.

Plasticizers are essential in a wide range of plastic products, from flexible PVC used in cables, flooring, and medical tubing, to coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Their use significantly expands the applications of rigid polymers, enabling the creation of materials tailored to specific performance requirements. The development of new, safer, and more sustainable plasticizers remains an active area of research.