Extrusion International 4-2025-USA

18 Extrusion International 4/2025 INDUSTRY NEWS Innovative PFAS-Free Polymer Processing Aids for More Sustainable Polyolefin Extrusion Getting ready for the K 2025 trade fair in Duesseldorf, Clariant an - nounced the launch of its new Ad- dWorks PPA product line, a new generation of PFAS-free polymer processing aids designed specifi - cally for polyolefin extrusion appli - cations. This innovative solution ad- dresses the industry's growing need for more sustainable alternatives to conventional fluoropolymer-based processing aids while maintaining strong performance standards. The new range includes Ad- dWorks PPA 101 FG, primarily fo - cused on EMEA, Americas, and SEAP markets, and AddWorks PPA 122 G, targeted for Greater China and SEAP regions. Both products are readily commercially available, offering manufacturers a timely so- lution as regulatory restrictions on PFAS substances continue to tight- en worldwide. "Our new AddWorks PPA prod- uct line represents a significant breakthrough in sustainable poly- mer processing," said Diederik Goyvaerts, Global Business Devel - opment Manager for Polymer So- lutions at Clariant. "By developing PFAS-free alternatives that match or exceed the performance of tra- ditional processing aids, we're helping our customers stay ahead of regulatory changes while main- taining the high-quality standards their end-users expect." The innovative formulations are completely free of per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as well as inorganic, silicone, or polysiloxane materials. This com- position ensures broad regulatory compliance, including suitability for food contact and food packag- ing applications, addressing a criti - cal need in the packaging industry. Additionally, these PFAS-free solu - tions support recyclability require- ments under the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), further align - ing with the industry's sustainabil- ity objectives. Manufacturers using the new Ad- dWorks PPA solutions can expect significant processing improve - ments, including enhanced extru - sion efficiency, effective elimina - tion of shark skin defects, and superior film surface smoothness. The products also maintain neu- tral behaviour regarding optical and mechanical properties, with no negative impact on dyne level, seal - ability, or coefficient of friction – critical factors for downstream con- verting operations. AddWorks PPA 101 FG features a 100% active fine grain composition that can be easily incorporated via host resin, masterbatch, or concen - trate. Meanwhile, AddWorks PPA 122 G comes in a convenient mas- terbatch form for easy handling, requiring the same dosing level as traditional polymer processing aid masterbatches, simplifying the transition for manufacturers. The versatility of these new pro- cessing aids makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, includ - ing polyethylene blown and cast film extrusion processes commonly used in packaging, agriculture, and building & construction industries. Film converters will particularly benefit from the improved surface quality and processing efficiency these additives provide. Clariant's introduction of the AddWorks PPA line reinforces the company's commitment to develop- ing more sustainable solutions that address both regulatory challenges and performance requirements. As global regulations increasingly target PFAS substances due to en- vironmental and health concerns, Clariant's proactive approach pro- vides customers with future-proof solutions that maintain operational excellence while advancing sustain- PFAS-free AddWorks PPA delivers efficient shark skin control for best-in-class film properties (© Clariant) PFAS-free AddWorks PPA enhances extrusion processability (© Clariant)