Additives, Fillers, and Fibers

Polymers are rarely processed as pure raw materials. More often, a polymer contains several additives to aid during processing, add color, or influence structure, properties, or chemical/aging resistance. These include lubricants, anti-blocking agents, release agents, stabilizers, antistatic agents, electrically conductive additives, flame retardants, colorants, impact modifiers, plasticizers, bonding agents, fillers, and reinforcing and blowing agents. Residuals of these additives as well as of synthesis additives, such as catalysts, emulsifiers, precipitants, curing agents, and accelerators, may remain in the molded component (intentionally or not) and affect its serviceability.