Development of High Gloss White Masterbatch for HIPS Applications
The need for aesthetics and functionality in the world of plastics is constantly increasing. This demand from the plastic industry has proved to be a challenge for leading masterbatch manufacturers, including us at Perfect Colourants & Plastics Pvt.Ltd Recently, we were approached by an electronics goods manufacturer with an issue with HIPS moulded components. Their product line of appliance panels and plastic housing required an excellent white colour with high glossiness that could withstand extreme processing conditions without colour inconsistencies or surface defects.
The Challenge
In the masterbatch market, various types of white masterbatches are available. Speaking of white colour masterbatch, it has a high concentration (TiO2), carrier resin and process additives, giving the brilliant white colour, glossiness and opacity. The client was using standard white masterbatches; however, they faced various problems, including:
- Insufficient glossiness, resulting in a dull surface appearance
- Poor TiO2 dispersion, causing streaks and flow marks
- Inconsistent whiteness, batch-to-batch
They need a high-gloss, high-brightness and thermally stable white masterbatch that is specifically engineered for HIPS.
Our Approach
At PCPPL, our technical team first conducted a detailed evaluation of the HIPS grade used for molding. HIPS behaviour involves a matte-leaning surface due to particles dispersed in the polymer matrix. To achieve a high gloss level requires both controlled dispersion of TiO2 and optimal pigment volume concentration (PVC). After undergoing quality checks at our state-of-the-art facility, we developed a custom high-gloss white masterbatch with the following findings:
- Concentration of TiO2 beyond a specific point can actually reduce glossiness due to particle dispersion.
- An optimal PVC (pigment volume concentration) ensures a smooth surface and better light scattering efficiency.
- Efficient & uniform dispersion improves opacity, brightness and hiding power.
Final Results Delivered to Client
We developed a high-gloss white masterbatch with the following enhancements:
- High-purity TiO2 with optimized particle size for maximum surface reflectivity.
- Antioxidant additives are incorporated to prevent yellowing at elevated processing temperatures.
- An optimized loading level to maintain impact strength while achieving excellent deep opacity.
The Client Achieved
- An increase of 25% increase in surface gloss level (measured through gloss meter @60 °C.
- No flow marks, lines, streaks & improved surface uniformity
- Stable and batch-to-batch gloss consistency
- No yellowing even after prolonged molding operations
The client successfully transitioned from standard to custom-developed white masterbatches, launching top-quality, high glossiness & aesthetically appealing consumer goods. With PCPPL’s rich material knowledge, technical expertise and colour matching capabilities, we allowed our valued client to upscale their HIPS product line. To discuss your plastic enhancement requirements, call us today.
