New softening agents developed by masterbatch supplier Polyvel are designed for the efficient and cost-effective production of nonwoven polypropylene (PP) products with extra-soft surfaces.

Small doses of the additives achieve effects ranging from simple, smooth surfaces to so-called “supersoft” products with an ultra-soft feel reminiscent of natural silk, according to Polyvel.

Soft to the touch, pleasing to the eye

The process aids are suitable for all products touting soft-touch tactile properties and aesthetic appeal. In addition to hygienic textiles, applications include the automotive, furniture, medical technology, and construction sectors. Polyvel also can accommodate customer-specific applications.

Extensive tests by neutral certification and testing laboratories confirm that the additives are safe for use in products that come in contact with human skin, such as diapers, as well as food, said the company. The processing aids are PFAS-free and do not contain any chemicals named on the Substance of Very High Concern list at the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

Alternatives to conventional plasticizers

During extrusion with the help of additive masterbatches such as Polyvel NH-P01, dosages as low as 0.5% are sufficient to achieve elevated levels of softness in PP nonwoven surfaces. The additives can replace conventional plasticizers and the chemicals usually associated with them.

The process aids are introduced during the production process, preventing the fibers’ fabric gels from forming a brittle surface with a rough feel after extrusion. The dissolved additive in the PP nonwoven permanently migrates to the fiber’s surface.

A distributor of specialty additive masterbatches and custom compounds in thermoplastic applications, Polyvel offers a wide-ranging product portfolio. It said that customers have been focusing, in particular, on additives for processing in-demand bioplastics to add specific technical and functional properties to applications.

Polyvel is based near Hamburg, Germany.