Fomblin® Y45 - Polymer Additives Enhance PFPE Lubricant Performance

Fomblin® Y45 is a synthetic polymer additive designed to increase the working life of a wide range of engineered thermoplastics and elastomers by providing a lower Coefficient of Friction (COF) and reduced wear. In addition, it delivers stain resistance and improves production throughput without modifying the mechanical properties of the host polymer. Fomblin® Y45 is composed of carbon, oxygen and fluorine, and belongs to the class of perfluoropolyethers (PFPE).

Fomblin® Y45 is produced through a proprietary and versatile technology: the low-temperature reaction of oxygen with perfluorinated olefins activated by UV light. This clear, colorless and odorless oil remains liquid in a very wide range of temperatures. It’s thermally stable, chemically inert, and compatible with metals, hydrogenated polymers, oxygen and aggressive gases, even at very high temperatures.

Compounding 

Fomblin® PFPE is incorporated the polymer matrix via conventional melt compounding equipment. 

The recommended loading of Fomblin® Y45 is 0.1–1.0%, depending on the base polymer matrix and desired final performance. A twin-screw extruder with liquid injection capability will achieve the most efficient incorporation of Fomblin® Y45 when compounding this additive with thermoplastic polymers. For thermoset polymers, follow a normal mixing procedure for internal or other high shear mixers. 

Compound Processing 

Compounds that contain Fomblin® Y45 can be processed in conventional thermoplastic processing equipment. 

Before processing, thoroughly clean and purge the equipment, then prime with the polymer compounded with Fomblin® Y45. 

Key Benefits of Modified Polymers 

• Reduce or eliminate noise and squeak 

• Improve sliding between the modified polymer and metal, glass and other materials 

• Extend product working life 

• Addition during compounding (no additional steps) 

• Increase production throughput (cost saving)

Surface Characteristics 

Fomblin® Y45 improves the surface properties of finished polymer products. It blooms to the surface and helps to reduce wear and COF. 

The presence of Fomblin® Y45 on the polymer surface is supported by contact angle measurement data. A contact angle greater than the control material indicates the presence of Fomblin® Y45 on the polymer surface, and the spreading coefficient is less than zero. This desirable processing aid enhances flow and release properties of polymers.

Product Form and Grades 

Fomblin® Y45 is a liquid additive and packaged in 1, 5 or 15 kg Cupack and 250 kg drums. Custom masterbatches of Fomblin® Y45 can be obtained through licensed compounders. 

Typical Applications 

Fomblin® Y45 is the product of choice where low wear and abrasion, squeak and noise reduction, lubricity, improved melt flow and release properties of polymer compounds are primary requirements: 

• Polymer gear/bushings 

• Auto weather stripping and interiors 

• Shoe soles and cleats 

• O-rings/seals 

• Polymer films 

• Processing aids 

• Cable liners