Meaning
Saturated or unsaturated chemical compounds act as functional additives to lower surface tack in polyolefin films. These primary fatty amides include substances such as erucamide and oleamide which are blended into the resin during the extrusion process. They serve to improve the handling of thin films by preventing them from sticking to each other on the roll.
Bloom Mechanism
Migration of the molecules to the surface creates a microscopic layer that acts as a lubricant. Because primary fatty amides have limited solubility in the polymer matrix, they naturally move toward the exterior as the material cools. This blooming process is essential for achieving the desired slip characteristics in finished packaging products.
Slip Performance
Choice between different types of additives depends on the required speed of action and the temperature of the application. Oleamide provides a fast reduction in friction but may be less stable at high temperatures, while erucamide is often selected for its better thermal stability and slower bloom. Using primary fatty amides allows converters to run their machines at higher speeds without tearing the film.
Chemical Composition
Molecular weight and the degree of saturation influence how the additive interacts with the base resin. High purity in the primary fatty amides is necessary to avoid unwanted odors.
