Additives, such as plasticizers, processing aids, softeners, extenders, and fillers, serve a variety of purposes in a material or compound recipe. They can increase flexibility or processability and impact the compounding process and final product performance. While there are many types to choose from, the compatibility of the filler with the elastomer or polymer must be assessed to avoid bleeding or other issues with the cured system.
How Smithers performs additive analysis
Gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a common method used to evaluate the presence and quantity of additives, plasticizers, and other specific ingredients in compounds. It can also identify unknown substances in a sample by comparing results to commonly known chemical “fingerprints.”About our Labs
Our rubber and plastic testing laboratories can offer qualitative and quantitative analyses. Quantitative data can be used to reverse engineer compounds or for competitive analysis of compounds or final products. Our experts can design a custom testing program based on your needs or support your standardized testing goals.- Additive Analysis
- Analysis of Chemical Blooms
- Carbon Black Analyses
- Chromatography and Spectrometry
- Complete Composition Analyses
- Elemental Characterization
- Extractables and Leachables
- Food Contact Testing for Industrial Components
- GPC Testing - Polymer Molecular Weight Characterization
- Impurity Identification
- PAEK Testing – Polyaryletherketones and PEEK Materials
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) Analysis
- Identification of Polymer Types and Blends
- REACH and RoHS Compliance Screening
- Spectroscopy
- Sulfur Content
- Thermal Analysis
