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Easier Processing for Sheet and Bulk Molding Compounds
Low-Profile Additives for SMC & BMC Applications
Microthene® F polyolefin powders are specialty, 20-micron, spherical-shaped polyethylene powders engineered as low-profile additives (LPA) for sheet molding compounds (SMC) and bulk molding compounds (BMC). Microthene® F powder delivers superior surface smoothness, shrinkage reduction, and improved pigment dispersion for a cost-effective and domestically produced solution for thermoset composite applications.
How Microthene® F Works
As a low-profile additive, Microthene® F forms microglobules within the SMC and BMC matrices. During curing, these particles counteract polymerization shrinkage and bloom to the surface, coating imperfections and preventing stress cracks.
Why Choose Microthene® F for SMC or BMC?
Shrinkage Control
During curing, polyester resins naturally shrink as they cross-link. Microthene® F expands and stress-cracks in a controlled way, relieving the imparted strain within the polymer matrix. This reduces overall shrinkage to around 1 mil per inch, preventing warping and dimensional instability.
Improved Surface Smoothness & Gloss
Microthene® F blooms to the surface during molding. This thin polyethylene layer fills micro-imperfections, creating a smoother, glossier finish compared to other LPAs. While it is not designed for Class A automotive body panels, it achieves highly acceptable finishes for most industrial, electrical, and construction uses.
Enhanced Pigment Dispersion & Color Uniformity
Microthene® F absorbs pigments better than the surrounding polyester matrix. This leads to uniform coloration across the molded part, reducing or eliminating the need for painting or priming.
Processability & Mold Release
When used in BMC premixes, Microthene® F improves compound flow through extruders and injection molding equipment. The blooming polyethylene layer allows parts to release cleanly from molds, reducing reliance on external mold release agents and lowering the risk of sticky residues. Overall, improving lubrication for BMC premixes while reducing the need for external mold release agents.SMC and BMC Applications
Automotive: Non-Class A body panels, under-hood components, trunk lids, and structural composites
Electrical & Appliances: Durable housings, switchgears, connectors, insulators, and covers requiring smooth surfaces
Construction: Reinforced panels, enclosures, and load-bearing parts with enhanced aesthetics
Microthene® F polyolefin powders are unique to the market as they are the only 20-micron and completely spherical low-profile additives that also contribute to the durability, weight reduction, and cost-efficiency critical for sheet molding compounds (SMC) and bulk molding compounds (BMC). If you are interested in talking to our technical experts, click the link to discuss which Microthene® F grade works best for your formulation.
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