Polyester films, commonly referred to as PET films, find extensive applications across various industries due to their exceptional electrical insulation properties. Static electricity accumulates on polyester film. It can lead to problems like electrostatic discharge. Then it has the potential to damage the package film. To address these issues, antistatic polyester films are becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we will delve into the usage of antistatic PET films. We will introduce an innovative formula for creating antistatic masterbatches.
1. Understanding Polyester Films
Polyester films are typically manufactured from materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN). These films are known for their excellent electrical insulation properties. Surface resistance is approximately 10^15 ohms. However, during frictional processes, these films are prone to generating and accumulating static electricity. So, the production of polyester films necessitates the addition of antistatic agents.
2. Common Methods for Adding Antistatic Agents
The addition of antistatic agents is primarily accomplished through two common methods: surface treatment and internal incorporation.
A. Surface Treatment. Surface treatment entails the application of a conductive solution to the external surface of the film. This method is favored for its simplicity, high production efficiency, and versatility. However, it comes with drawbacks. It is a possible coating to detach from the base material. The antistatic performance is unstable. Vulnerability to friction results in agent loss. These issues can compromise the long-term effectiveness of antistatic polyester films.
B. Internal Incorporation. Internal incorporation is a more commonly used method. It involves introducing antistatic agents into the film during the masterbatch preparation stage. This approach results in better resistance to aging and is less influenced by environmental humidity. Typically, to achieve an ideal antistatic effect, around 1-3% of antistatic agents are added to the film. However, traditional antistatic agents are often incompatible with polyester materials. So it is easy to migrate. These shortcomings reduce the long-term antistatic effect of the film.
3. Innovative Antistatic Agent Formulation
To overcome challenges such as agent migration, high required volumes, and compromised physical and optical properties associated with conventional antistatic agents, a novel type of antistatic masterbatch has been developed. This masterbatch comprises polyester chips, nano-antistatic agents, antioxidants, nano CeO2, plasticizers, and long glass fibers.
4. Characteristics of the New Antistatic Agent Formula
Long-Lasting Antistatic Functionality. The new formula ensures the antistatic properties persist, enhancing the film’s lifespan.
Improved Compatibility. The antistatic agent is more compatible with polyester films. So it results in reduced migration and greater antistatic efficiency.
Reduced Required Volume. This new formula allows for the use of smaller quantities of antistatic agents.
5. Production of the New Antistatic Agent
The production process for the new antistatic agent is straightforward. It begins with the mixing of all the components, followed by the addition of long glass fibers. The mixture is then subjected to melting and extrusion in a twin-screw extruder, resulting in the formation of granules.
6. Effectiveness of the New Antistatic Agent
From the customer’s feedback, we have collected several data. Films containing just two basic nano antistatic agents exhibit consistent performance. The antistatic value is approximately 1.7 x 10^10 ohms. The addition of a suitable plasticizer enhances the film’s mechanical properties, raising the antistatic value to 3.6 x 10^9 ohms. Furthermore, introducing an appropriate amount of nano CeO2 further enhances the film’s antistatic properties. It reduces the antistatic value from 1.7 x 10^10 to 9.3 x 10^8 ohms.
Antistatic polyester films are becoming increasingly crucial across various industries. So we’d better understand the methods of adding antistatic agents and the benefits of innovative formulations. As described in this article, it can lead to the creation of polyester films with long-lasting antistatic properties. These special masterbacth enhancements extend the film’s lifespan at first. It also improves its overall performance. Following it provides a reliable choice for applications where antistatic qualities are paramount.
