Struktol highlights VMO series for enhanced PP processing

Polymer additive technology developer Struktol Co. of America LLC has made available its VMO Series, which it says is an advanced family of melt flow modifiers designed to optimize polypropylene (PP) processing, quality and versatility for the recycling market.

Featuring a proprietary blend of fatty acid derivatives and vis-breaking technology, the Stow, Ohio-based company says its VMO Series delivers “rapid and precise” melt flow index (MFI) adjustments, addressing the needs of compounders and processors looking to streamline manufacturing and enhance product performance.

Struktol says its line of melt flow modifiers are offered in an easy-to-handle off-white to beige pastille form and feature a low-odor formulation that includes an odor neutralizer, allowing for high-quality, neutral-smelling finished compounds. The company says the masterbatch approach ensures convenient dosing, safety and precise incorporation into polymer systems across extrusion, compounding or injection molding operations.

Struktol says compatibility with PP containing up to 35 percent polyethylene (PE) extends the reliability and performance of the VMO Series in both pure and recycled applications, even in the presence of contamination or intentional blending, supporting sustainability initiatives and greater use of recycled content.

The VMO Series is available in a range of activity grades (VMO 058, 108, 208, 308 and 408), Struktol says, providing tailored solutions for different melt flow targets and processing requirements. The company notes this multigrade approach gives recycling operations the flexibility to match modifier activity with specific formulation and throughput goals, enabling the consolidation of raw materials and minimizing the need to inventory multiple base PP MFI grades.

Struktol says its VMO Series allows recycling operations to accelerate throughput rates, enhance manufacturing efficiency and lower overall costs, and adds that the series is effective at low addition levels, has a storage stability of at least two years and is available in 50-pound bags and 2,000-pound skid packaging formats. The company says each grade maintains a stable and predictable dropping point between 74-86 degrees Celsius and a specific gravity of 0.98-1.0, allowing for reliable operation across a wide array of polymer formulations. The masterbatch contains Struktol’s lubricant and process aid technologies.

Struktol says its VMO Series supports circular manufacturing models and closed-loop recycling efforts.

“Backed by Struktol’s comprehensive technical services, R&D [research and development] and quality assurance teams, customers benefit from expert support and reliable performance,” the company says. “With the VMO Series, Struktol demonstrates its ongoing commitment to providing advanced additive solutions that increase productivity, simplify production and deliver maximum value for the recycling industry.”