Fundamentals of Masterbatch Production and Development
This course comprehensively covers all stages of masterbatch production, from formulation design, selection of components (base polymers, carriers, pigments, additives) and manufacturing methods (compounding) to their behaviour in processing methods such as extrusion, injection moulding or blow moulding.
Common technical issues will be addressed, such as poor pigment dispersion, incompatibilities, the compounding process, formulations and quality control.
It will also cover new trends in sustainability and functionality, such as biodegradable masterbatches or those with a bio-based matrix.
Key quality controls (dispersion, concentration, moisture content, compatibility) will be explained, as well as the tests required to validate their use in regulated environments.
This course is designed to provide a technical and practical overview, using real-world examples, so that participants can acquire solid skills in the use and development of masterbatches within their products and processes.
650€ General
- To understand the different types of masterbatch (colourants, additives and fillers) and their formulations.
- To understand the components and characteristics of a masterbatch.
- To understand the manufacturing processes for masterbatches.
- To understand quality control in masterbatches.
- To be able to select the appropriate masterbatch for each application.
- Recognise common problems and their solutions in industrial processes.
- Process technicians
- R&D staff
- Quality and production managers
- Sales departments
- Compounding manufacturers
- Plastics processing companies
DEFINITION AND COMPONENTS OF A MASTERBATCH (MB)
- Definitions
- Typical formulations
- Description of components (carriers, colourants and dispersants)
- Types of MB (SPC, bespoke MBs and additive MBs)
- Production of an MB (Premix, Split Feeding and Colour Matching)
CHARACTERISTICS OF A MB
- Dispersion: definition, measurements, evaluation and quality
- Dilution: viscosity, let-down ratio and chemical compatibility
EQUIPMENT FOR MB DEVELOPMENT
- Co-rotating twin-screw extrusion: configuration, process control and peripheral equipment
- Mixers: characteristics and process control
TROUBLESHOOTING
- Types of problems
- Identification
- Resolution
COLOUR THEORY
- Colour theory and visual perception
- Types of colourants and their properties
- Colour measurement and control
SUSTAINABILITY
- MB made from recycled materials
- MB made from bioplastics
DEFINITION AND COMPONENTS OF A MASTERBATCH (MB)
- Definitions
- Typical formulations
- Description of components (carriers, colourants and dispersants)
- Types of MB (SPC, bespoke MBs and additive MBs)
- Production of an MB (Premix, Split Feeding and Colour Matching)
CHARACTERISTICS OF A MB
- Dispersion: definition, measurements, evaluation and quality
- Dilution: viscosity, let-down ratio and chemical compatibility
EQUIPMENT FOR MB DEVELOPMENT
- Co-rotating twin-screw extrusion: configuration, process control and peripheral equipment
- Mixers: characteristics and process control
TROUBLESHOOTING
- Types of problems
- Identification
- Resolution
COLOUR THEORY
- Colour theory and visual perception
- Types of colourants and their properties
- Colour measurement and control
SUSTAINABILITY
- MB made from recycled materials
- MB made from bioplastics
