Plasticizer

Plasticizer Market Overview:
– Global plasticizer market volume in 2017 was 7.5 million metric tonnes.
– North America accounted for ~1.01 million metric tonnes in 2017.
– Europe’s volume in 2017 was 1.35 million metric tonnes.
– Phthalate esters are commonly used in PVC.
– Other polymers with high plasticizer content include acrylates and cellulose-type plastics.

Mechanism and Effects of Plasticizers:
– Plasticizers increase free volume between polymer chains.
– They lower the glass transition temperature of polymers.
– Plasticizer concentration affects the elastic modulus.
– Migration of plasticizers can lead to embrittlement and cracking.
– Plasticizer effects on polymer chain mobility are complex.

Plasticizer Selection and Types:
– Over 30,000 substances evaluated as polymer plasticizers, but only ~50 are in commercial use.
– Ester plasticizers are chosen based on cost-performance evaluation.
– Various ester chemistries are available for different elastomer applications.
– Plasticizers based on esters of polycarboxylic acids are common in PVC.
– There is a move towards non-classified substances in Europe due to regulatory concerns.

Safety and Toxicity Concerns:
– Some ortho-phthalates are classified as potential endocrine disruptors.
– Plasticizers can escape plastics through migration and abrasion.
– Studies show low volatility and vapor pressure of phthalates.
– New car smell is often attributed to plasticizers.
– Concerns exist over the safety of some polymer plasticizers.

Applications of Plasticizers:
– Plasticizers and superplasticizers improve workability and strength of concrete.
– They are used in stucco mixtures to enhance workability.
– Plasticizers for energetic materials improve physical properties and specific energy yield of propellants.
– Specific plasticizers like nitroglycerine and others are preferred for solid rocket propellants.
– Plasticizers are also used in the conservation and restoration of plastic objects.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasticizer