ColorMatrix, a subsidiary of PolyOne Corporation and a global leader in liquid color and additives for plastics, is unveiling new grades of Excelite™ liquid foaming solutions for extruded vinyl construction applications at K 2013 (Hall 8a / Stand J13) this week. These solutions can help customers reduce density and total systems cost, without compromising mechanical properties or surface aesthetics, to differentiate their offering and increase market share.
Excelite liquid foaming agents were launched in 2008 as the world’s first liquid dispersion chemical foaming agent for extruded vinyl. The new formulations launching today address specific requirements for trim, panels, partitions, profiles and decking in building and construction extrusion applications.
ColorMatrix director of new product development and operations Bjoern Klaas said: "We are collaborating with building material manufacturers in a competitive industry to help them produce the highest quality products as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.
"Our customers are looking for materials that improve operational efficiencies in addition to enhancing weight reduction. Our advanced liquid carrier technology allows Excelite formulations to improve control of production tolerances and increase reproducibility to streamline manufacturing, minimise wastage and increase profitability."
The new Excelite formulations can enhance individual extrusion processes and applications including:
- Thick sheet applications, such as panels and partitions
- Profiles and decorative moldings
- Low-maintenance, weather-resistant decking
- Trim and siding products for protecting and enhancing building exteriors
Excelite foaming agents can be metered directly at the extruder feed throat for in-line production flexibility that reduces product changeover time and increases productivity. Its liquid dispersion properties promote even distribution of the active foaming agents to create a fine and consistent cell structure that enables customers to achieve densities of 0.45g/m³ and less while maintaining surface finish quality and physical properties.