Benzoflex® 352 for Hot-Melt Adhesives

Hot-melt adhesives (HMAs) are vital components for industries such as packaging, bookbinding, woodworking, and product assembly due to their fast-setting nature and ease of application. However, it is critical to achieve the right balance between bond strength, flexibility, thermal stability, and processability.

Benzoflex® 352 is a solid benzoate ester plasticizer that improves both processing and performance of hot-melt adhesives. With fast set times, high crystallinity, and exceptional adhesion performance, Benzoflex® 352 combines plasticizing efficiency in the melt phase compared to liquid plasticizers, which can excessively soften adhesives. Benzoflex® 352 enhances flexibility and tack with the ability to improve open time, cohesive strength, and high-temperature resistance.

Technical Advantages of Benzoflex® 352 for Hot-Melt Adhesives

Without proper plasticization, HMAs can become brittle, difficult to process, or exhibit weak adhesion in nonporous or flexible substrates. Traditional liquid plasticizers lower Tg (glass transition temperature) but can weaken cohesive strength. Solid plasticizers like Benzoflex® 352 bridge this gap by delivering flexibility while maintaining structural integrity. Benzoflex® 352 offers the following technical advantages for hot-melt adhesive formulations. 

 

Technical Advantages

Hot-Melt Adhesive Applications

Benzoflex® 352 improves performance in multiple hot-melt adhesive applications, including:

 

Packaging Adhesives

Bookbinding Adhesives

Woodworking & Product Assembly

Specialty Adhesives (Electronics)

Comparison to Alternative Plasticizers

Benzoflex® 352 offers a safer, higher-performing replacement compared to dicyclohexyl phthalate or glycerol tribenzoate with broader compatibility and improved handling properties.

Conclusion

For formulators looking to improve hot-melt adhesive performance, Benzoflex® 352 provides a unique balance of fast set times, strong cohesive strength, extended open time, and substrate compatibility. Its solid-state characteristics make it a superior alternative to liquid plasticizers, ensuring adhesives are both efficient to process and reliable in service. If you are interested in technical data sheets or would like to talk to an expert, click the link below to learn how Benzoflex® 352 can improve hot-melt formulations.
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