Benzoflex™ Plasticizer for Polyurethane Applications
Polyurethane (also known as urethane) is a flexible polymer used in sealant, automotive, 3D printing, aerospace, and other applications. Due to their unique polymer chemistry composition, polyurethanes often require a plasticizer additive to help the maker reach the desired end product. Lowering the intermolecular tensions between polymer chains can increase the flexibility, durability, and elongation of polyurethane. Eastman plasticizers Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG and Benzoflex™ 352 excel in cast polyurethane systems and hot-melt adhesives by lowering hardness as they interact with the polyurethane matrix's soft segments.
Benzoflex™ 352
Benzoflex™ 352 is a cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) dibenzoate plasticizer commonly used in a variety of urethane hot-melt adhesive applications. Due to its high solvating power, Benzoflex™ 352 is particularly useful in applications where a plasticizer needs to dissolve other components or act as a carrier for other additives. It can also improve the performance of other plasticizers by reducing their crystallization tendency and increasing their compatibility with polar polymers.
By incorporating Benzoflex™ 352 into urethane hot-melt adhesives, manufacturers can achieve improved flow, better adhesion performance, increased flexibility, enhanced low-temperature properties, and compatibility. In hot-melt adhesives, Benzoflex™ 352 can improve tackiness and adhesion as well as provide flexibility and low temperature. These performance benefits contribute to the overall quality and reliability of the adhesive, making it suitable for a range of bonding applications, such as RV manufacturing, automotive, boats, carpeting, cloth, laminate panels, bookbinding, and construction.
Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG
Eastman Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG is recommended as a plasticizer for hot-cast polyurethane applications, such as adhesives, coatings, sealants, and vinyl flooring. Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG is a specialty grade of dipropylene glycol dibenzoate high-solvating plasticizer compatible enough to be a sole or primary plasticizer. It is a high–molecular weight, solid, non-phthalate benzoate ester that offers excellent efficiency, enhanced durability, low volatility, low migration, and good compatibility.
When used in polyurethane, Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG can help reduce the hardness of the material, improving flexibility and impact resistance. Also, because of its compatibility in cast urethane systems, this grade allows for use at high levels to achieve durometer readings ranging as low as 20–25 shore A hardness. It can also enhance the adhesion of polyurethane to substrates such as metal, plastic, and wood.
Additionally, Benzoflex™ 9-88 SG can improve the low-temperature properties of polyurethane, making it more suitable for outdoor and cold-weather applications. Furthermore, it offers improved properties over the standard grade, including better compatibility with polar polymers, lower volatility, and improved efficiency.
If you require non-phthalate plasticizers or a reliable source, please talk to one of our technical specialists today.