plastmidler

Plastmidler are a class of chemical compounds that are added to plastics to improve their properties or processing characteristics. The term "plastmidler" is derived from the Swedish words "plast" (plastic) and "mildare" (milder), suggesting their role in making plastics more pliable or easier to work with.

These additives function by interacting with the polymer chains within the plastic. They can reduce the intermolecular forces between these chains, allowing them to slide past each other more easily. This results in a decrease in the plastic's glass transition temperature, making it more flexible, less brittle, and easier to mold or extrude.

Common examples of plastmidler include phthalates, adipates, and citrates. The specific type of plastmidler used depends on the type of polymer and the desired end properties of the plastic product. For instance, plastmidler are frequently incorporated into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to create flexible materials like cables, flooring, and films.

While plastmidler offer significant advantages in plastic manufacturing, their use can also raise environmental and health concerns. Some plastmidler, particularly certain phthalates, have been identified as potential endocrine disruptors and have faced regulatory scrutiny and restrictions in various regions. Research is ongoing to develop safer and more sustainable alternatives. The selection and use of plastmidler are therefore subject to careful consideration of both functional requirements and potential impacts.