Adhesives

Indopol® polybutenes are vital ingredients in many pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) and hot-melt adhesives (HMAs). They are very useful for modifying properties such as the tack, softness, bond strength, cohesive strength and water resistance of adhesives. The advantages offered by polybutenes when compared to mineral oils include: low color and excellent color stability, good resistance to oxidation, practically no toxicity, and a wide range of viscosities. More significant, however, is the ability of the highly tacky grades (e.g. Indopol H-300 and H-1900) to partially or totally replace relatively expensive tackifier resins, thereby reducing formulation costs.

Examples of pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA) which can be improved with polybutene include: adhesives for paper laminates, labels and tapes; masking and friction tapes; surgical tapes; colorless adhesives; cements for leather; paper, foil and fiber lamination; and industrial tapes. Polybutene improves the quick stick and peel strength of elastomers and improves the tack of natural and synthetic rubbers.

Polybutene emulsions decrease the organic vapor emissions in water-based PSAs. These emulsions also offer enhanced adhesion and temperature stability while lowering adhesive costs for packaging, labels, and product assembly.

When incorporated into hot-melt adhesives, polybutene acts as a polymer extender, plasticizer, tackifier and wetting agent. Polybutene decreases the melt index and increases the cold temperature flexibility. The major applications for these HMAs include packaging, disposable soft goods, book binding, carton sealing, carpet, shoes, and furniture.

Polybutene improves the tack and adhesion of the tie layer in multi-layer food packaging applications and can reduce formulation costs. Food packaging applications of hot-melt extrudable adhesives include cups, trays, plates, bags, and lid films. Most Indopol grades have food contact approval.

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