A global isoprene shortage is compelling tape and label manufacturers to seek alternative ingredients for their hot-melt, pressure-sensitive adhesive (HMPSA) formulations for packaging tapes and labels, particularly users of SIS (styrene-isoprene-styrene) block copolymers. Eastman Chemical Company, Kingsport, Tenn., has introduced a new formulation strategy that reduces the use of isoprene by more than 50 percent in HMPSA’s.
According to Eastman Chemical Company’s technical study, depending on the specific performance demands of a given HMPSA application, it is now possible to provide substantial substitution of isoprene monomers in an adhesives formulation using a blend of the KRATON Polymers SIBS (styrene-isoprene-butadiene-styrene) block copolymer and SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) block copolymer. Proper blending of SIBS and SBS, combined with Eastman’s Piccotac 7590-N hydrocarbon resin, provides adhesive formulators with a cost-effective, viable alternative. Produced with the more readily available butadiene monomers, in some cases the new formulation can enhance overall performance of HMPSA’s.
“The research we’ve documented allows packaging tape and label manufacturers to meet the specific challenges presented by the current shortage without sacrificing HMPSA performance,” said Chrétien Donker, product application manager for Eastman.
Founded in 1920, Eastman Chemical Company manufactures and markets chemicals, fibers and plastics worldwide.
For more information, call (423) 299-2721 or visit www.eastman.com.
- Places:
- Kingsport, Tenn.