Most polyethylene applications are in the areas of film, molding, cable and pipe. According to the demands of each of these applications, Ciba offers tailored additive packages and colorants for the PE producing and converting industry.

Thermal Stability and Processing Stability

Synergistic antioxidant blends, comprising phosphites or phosphonites and phenols, are used to ensure thermal and processing stability during pelletization, processing and end-use. State-of-the-art antioxidant systems are the well established Ciba® IRGANOX® B antioxidant blends.

Light Stability

Just as heat and shear can destroy polyethylene, so too can light. Ultraviolet light, the same type that causes skin to sunburn, can initiate chemical reactions in polyethylene, resulting in the demolition of polymer chain structures and loss of chemical and physical properties. Ciba® TINUVIN® and Ciba® CHIMASSORB® light stabilizers can improve the light stability of polyethylene. They are ultraviolet light absorbers (UVAs) or hindered amine/amide light stabilizers (HALS). Often UVAs and HALS are used together to provide a higher level of polymer light stability.

Additive Blends

Besides additives for thermal, processing and light stability, other additives, such as nucleating agents, antistats, slip agents and colorants may also have to be added to achieve the desired property portfolio of a given polymer grade. Ciba´s Customer-Specific-Blend (CSB) Business focuses on the development, production and supply of customer-specific additive blend packages. For more information, please contact us..

Additive Solutions for the Polyolefin Producing Industry

Colorants

According to its broad use and diverse applications, Ciba offers a versatile product range of Organic Pigments for coloration of PE, both for general use and demanding applications. Based on the specific application and requirements, Organic Pigments with excellent performance properties like non warping, easily dispersible or superb weather and light fastness can be provided. Brand names like Ciba® CROMOPHTAL®, Ciba® IRGAZIN® or Ciba® IRGALITE® are well known synonyms for Ciba´s high quality Organic Pigments. To find more about Coloration of PE, see PE Effects.