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KRATON Polymers
for Modification of Thermoplastics

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KRATONTM Polymers
for Modification of Thermoplastics

Introduction
KRATON Polymers are a class of elastomers useable without vulcanization. They are
block copolymers with hard polystyrene segments combined with soft elastomeric
segments.
KRATON Polymers can be blended with many plastics, such as styrenics,
polyolefins and engineering thermoplastics to improve their performance, particularly their
impact properties. KRATON Polymers can toughen such plastics both at room and low temperatures. They can help to make dissimilar plastics compatible, bringing out the best in
each. They can also increase the impact performance of scrap and regrind materials. With
the right grade of KRATON Polymers, toughening or compatibilization can be achieved
efficiently while retaining high heat resistance, good processability, good weatherability,
and in certain cases, clarity.
KRATON Polymers can also be interpolymerized during the manufacturing process of
some plastics, producing controlled polymer particles for impact resistance.
New grades of KRATON Polymers are continually being developed to meet the demand
for rubber-modified plastics with improved performance characteristics.

Structure
KRATON Polymers consist of block segments of styrene monomer units and rubber monomer
units. The most common structure is the linear A-B-A block type (styrene-rubber-styrene).
Other possibilities include branched (A-B )n types (styrene-rubber) n and diblocks
A-B (styrene-rubber). Commercial products also include combinations of these types.
These block copolymers form a two-phase system the polystyrene and elastomeric
blocks are thermodynamically incompatible. In KRATON Polymer compositions, the polystyrene blocks form hard domains within the elastomer matrix and act as physical
crosslinks between them. During processing, in the presence of heat and shear or solvent,
the polystyrene domains soften and permit flow. After cooling or solvent evaporation, the
polystyrene domains reform and harden, locking the polymer network in place again.
The physical crosslinking and reinforcing effect give KRATON Polymers their high tensile
strength while the polymer block provides elasticity. And since the physical crosslinking is
reversible, scrap KRATON Polymers may be reprocessed.
These block structures are produced by anionic polymerization. This process allows the
formation of pure blocks with no tapering. Pure polymer blocks allow all of the polymer
segment to be used for toughening. They can also afford a high degree of domain integrity,
which in turn can yield very high strain properties.
With anionic polymerization, precise control over the molecular weight (MW) and molecular weight distribution (MWD) of KRATON Polymers is possible. MWD, for example, is
extremely narrow (Mw/MnI). As a result, KRATON Polymers may be tailored to the
demanding requirements of specific applications and can perform the same time and again.
1

Branched
Diblock

styrene

rubber

styrene

Triblock

KRATON Polymers Grades


There exist two basic classes of KRATON Polymers. The KRATON D series consists of block
polymers in which the elastomeric portion of the molecule is an unsaturated
polymer either butadiene or isoprene. The KRATON G series are second generation
block polymers in which the elastomeric portion of the molecule is a saturated olefin
polymer either ethylene/butylene or ethylene/propylene.
KRATON G Polymers are considered resistant to degradation by oxygen, ozone and
UV light. They also have a higher cohesive strength and can retain their structural integrity
at higher temperatures than KRATON D Polymers.
Pure KRATON D Polymers are designated as the KRATON D1100 series. These include
both butadiene and isoprene versions, and various combinations of diblocks, triblocks and
branched architectures. Pure KRATON G Polymers are designated as KRATON
G1600 or G1700 series. The G1600 series denotes polymers that are pure triblocks or have
a high percentage of triblocks. The G1700 series polymers are either pure diblocks or have
a high percentage of diblocks. Pure functionalized versions of KRATON G Polymers are
designated as the KRATON FG1900 series.
Selected polymers are also available as oil-extended versions. These are the
KRATON 4000 Polymers. KRATON D4100 Polymers are oil-extended polymers from the
D1100 series, and KRATON G4600 Polymers are from the G1600 series.
Tables 1 and 2 describe typical properties for the KRATON Polymer grades that are
frequently used as impact modifiers or compatibilizers.

Table 1. Typical properties of selected KRATON D Polymers


Property
Composition1
Predominant Architecture
Relative MW of Triblock
or Radial Component
Styrene/Rubber Ratio
Oil Content, %w
Glass Transition Temperature5
of Rubber Block, C
Physical Form6
FDA7

D1101

D1102

D1118

D1184

D1401P*

D4141

D4150

D4158

SBS

SBS

SB

(SB)n

SBS

SBS

Linear

Linear

Diblock2

(SB)n
Branched

Branched

Linear

Linear

(SB)n
Branched

Medium

Medium/
Low

Medium3

High

High

Medium3

Medium3

High4

31/69

28/72

30/70

30/70

75/25

31/69

31/69

30/70

29

33

33

-80

-80

-80

-80

-80

-80

-80

-80

PP or GP

PP

PP or GP

PP or GP

DP

PP or GP

PP

PP

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

1. SBS denotes styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, "(SB)" and "(SB)n" denote styrene-butadiene

5. Measured by Rheovibron

2. 80% diblock, 20% triblock

6. Porous pellet, ground powder or dense pellets

3. Triblock component similar in MW to D1101

7.

4.

Multiblock component similar in MW to D1184

These KRATON Polymers products can find use under certain FDA regulations as articles or
ingredients in articles intended for food contact. FDA clearances vary from one grade to
another. For specific clearances, letters of certification will be provided upon request.

Available in U.S. only.

Table 2. Typical properties of selected KRATON G Polymers


G16501

Property
Composition2

G1657

G17011

G1702

G1726

G1730

SEBS

SEBS

SEBS

SEBS

SEP

SEP

SEBS

SEPSEP

Triblock

Triblock

Triblock

Triblock3

Diblock

Diblock

Diblock4

Tetrablock

Medium/Low5

High

Low

Medium/
High

Medium/
Low

High

High

Low6

Medium

29/71

32/68

29/71

31/69

13/87

37/63

28/72

30/70

22/78

Oil Content, %w
Glass Transition Temperature7
of Polymer Block, C
FDA8

G16541

SEBS

Styrene/Rubber Ratio

Physical Form

G16521

Triblock

Predominant Architecture
Relative MW of Triblock
(except in case of Diblock
for G1701 and G1702)

G16511

-42

-42

-42

-42

-42

-50

-50

-42

-50

Powder

Powder

Powder

Powder

Pellet

Powder

Powder

Pellet

Pellet

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

limited 9

limited 9

yes

limited 9

1. KRATON G Polymer grades manufactured in France are labeled with an "E" for standard
grades and "ES" for grades dusted with silica, for distribution in Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific.
2. SEBS denotes styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene block copolymer; SEP

6. Triblock MW comparable to G1652


7.

Measured by Rheovibron

8. These KRATON Polymers products can find use under certain FDA regulations as articles or

denotes styrene-ethylene/propylene block copolymer; "SEPSEP" denotes

ingredients in articles intended for food contact. FDA clearances vary from one grade to

styrene-ethylene-propylene/styrene-ethylene-propylene block copolymer

another. For specific clearances, letters of certification will be provided upon request.

3. 30% diblock, 70% triblock

9.

FDA status limited under 21 CFR 175.105 (Adhesives).

4. 70% diblock, 30% triblock


5. Triblock MW comparable to D1102

Table 3. Typical properties of selected KRATON FG Polymers


Property

FG1901*

FG1924X*

Composition1

Funct. SEBS

Funct. SEBS

Predominant Architecture
Relative MW of Triblock

Triblock

Triblock

Low

Medium

Styrene/Rubber Ratio

28/72

13/87

Functionality, %w Bound

22

Oil Content, %w

Glass Transition Temperature3


of Polymer Block, C
Physical Form
FDA4

-42

-40

Pellet

Pellet

yes

yes

1. SEBS denotes styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene block copolymer


2. Succinic anhydride
3. Measured by Rheovibron
4. These KRATON Polymers products can find use under certain FDA regulations as articles or ingredients in articles intended for food contact.
FDA clearances vary from one grade to another. For specific clearances, letters of certification will be provided upon request.
"X"denotes developmental product
* Available in U.S. only.

Impact Modification of Thermoplastics


Most plastics are susceptible to brittle fracture. Although energy-absorbing processes such
as crazing or shear yielding operate in these plastics, they do so only in highly localized
areas around the crack tip. In order to increase the toughness, energy-dissipating mechanisms must occur over a large volume of the plastic. And they must simultaneously limit the
growth and breakdown of voids and cracks to prevent catastrophic failure of the plastic.
The incorporation of dispersed polymer particles in plastics has been found to achieve
this goal. Polymer particles act as stress concentrators. When polymer particles are close
together, the stress field between them is enhanced. This in turn initiates localized energyabsorbing mechanisms from many sites, allowing a much greater volume of the matrix
polymer to be involved. The result is a tough system that can absorb large amounts of
energy without catastrophic failure.
Optimum stress field enhancement depends on the following conditions: high polymer
loading, small particle size and uniform dispersion. In order to obtain these conditions, it
is necessary to have the right degree of compatibility between the polymer and the
plastic. Incompatibility leads to large polymer particles with poor toughening. The other
extreme, miscibility of the polymer and the plastic, also leads to poor results, such as
significantly reduced stiffness-related properties, HDT and flexural modulus of the plastic.
The most efficient polymers for impact modification will also have a low glass
transition temperature (Tg) and an internal strength mechanism. The low Tg improves the low
temperature toughness of the plastic. A polymer with an internal strength mechanism should
be able to absorb energy not only upon initiation of crazing or shear yielding in the matrix,
but also from the work necessary to rupture the polymer particles themselves.
Other requirements for the polymer depend on the end-use application. One requirement
might be processability of the polymer which will influence the melt flow of the final blend,
while others may include the polymers heat aging and weatherability characteristics, its
transparency within the plastic and its effect on the surface appearance of the final blend.

KRATON Polymers Perform


KRATON Polymers exhibit the requirements for toughening many plastics. For the
systems discussed below, KRATON Polymers have sufficient compatibility to obtain a
uniform, fine polymer dispersion. KRATON Polymers contain a low Tg rubber phase of
either butadiene, isoprene, ethylene/butylene, or ethylene/propylene. The triblock or multiblock structure of many KRATON Polymers can give these elastomers an internal strength
mechanism for highly efficient toughening. The wide choice of MW and structure, (e.g.
the ratio of diblock to triblock) can allow a balancing between the toughness of the blend
and its processability. Finally, the anionic process by which these polymers are manufactured can provide pure blocks with little-to-no tapering to allow utilization of the whole
polymer block and good MW control to provide repeatable performance.

KRATON Polymers
Grade Selection

The selection of a particular grade of KRATON Polymers depends on both the plastic to
be toughened and the blends final application. The most important property of the chosen
KRATON Polymer is its compatibility with the plastic to be toughened. KRATON Polymers
styrene blocks can be used to impact modify styrenics and polyphenylene ethers (PPE).
KRATON Polymers can also be used to toughen polyolefins which have varying degrees
of compatibility with the rubber block of KRATON Polymers.
It has also been found that KRATON G Polymers with high polystyrene molecular weight
blocks can lead to improved impact resistance in polycarbonate without severe delamination of the polymer. However, for most polar engineering thermoplastics, conventional
KRATON Polymers are not sufficiently compatible for effective toughening. For this reason,
we have developed functionalized KRATON Polymers combining the attributes of conventional KRATON Polymers plus improved compatibility with polar engineering thermoplastics, such as polyamides (nylons) and polyesters. These polymers are the KRATON FG
series, including FG1901 and FG1924X.
Besides compatibility, there are several other considerations to be made when choosing
a particular grade of KRATON Polymers:
In many systems the higher MW KRATON Polymers are more efficient impact modifiers,
but they are typically more difficult to process and lead to a lower melt flow in the
final blend.
The addition of diblock polymer to triblock polymer may lead to easier processability,
but it may be less efficient in toughening specific systems.
KRATON G Polymers, with saturated rubber blocks, should be used in applications
which involve high temperature processing or which demand a high level of heat
aging resistance or weatherability. Except in special cases, KRATON D Polymers
are limited to systems that process below 230 C.

KRATON Polymers in Polystyrene


KRATON Polymers styrene endblocks provide good compatibility with crystal and high
impact polystyrene (HIPS), making them good impact modifiers for these plastics. The most
frequently used KRATON Polymers grades for toughening polystyrene systems are D1101,
D1102, and D1184. If there are heat aging or weatherability requirements, the saturated rubber midblocks of G1650 and G1652 are good toughening candidates.
The size of the styrene block in each grade of KRATON Polymers is the chief determining
factor as to its effectiveness as an impact modifier. In KRATON D Polymers, D1102 has the
smallest styrene block; D1184 has the largest. Therefore, D1184 is the most
efficient impact modifier, but also the most difficult to process. KRATON D1102 Polymer
is the easiest to process and often is used when only mild shear rate compounding
equipment (e.g. single screw extruders) is available for the blending process. Figure 1 shows
the effect of adding various levels of D1101 to HIPS. Table 4 compares the
properties of D1101, D1102 and D1184 blends in HIPS at the same loading.
In many cases, increased impact strength is accompanied by loss of stiffness. However,
ternary blends of crystal polystyrene, HIPS, and KRATON Polymers can be made which not
only retain the stiffness of the original HIPS, but also show large increases in impact strength.
Alternatively, products with the same impact strength but increased gloss, softening point
and stiffness are possible. Table 5 illustrates the properties of several ternary blends with
KRATON D1101 and D1102 Polymers.
A drawback to most conventional elastomeric KRATON Polymers in polystyrene is that
when blended together, the inherent clarity of the polystyrene is lost. KRATON D1401P
Polymer is designed specifically to be able to provide ductility of polystyrene without loss of
its inherent clarity. These formulations are often used to make clear, water white, disposable
packaging, film, and molded parts. Table 6 shows the properties of blends of KRATON
D1401P Polymer with two different melt flow index polystyrene grades.
8

Toughness/Stiffness Balance
of Blends of KRATON
D1101 Polymer and HIPS
( ) = % W KRATON D1101 Polymer

7
1/4" IZOD, FT-LB/INCH

Figure 1.

(25%)

(30%)

6
5

(20%)

(15%)
(10%)

(5%)

HIPS

1
0
150

200

250

300

350

FLEXURAL MODULUS, PSI

Table 4. Binary blends of various KRATON D Polymers with HIPS


Composition, %w
HIPS

100

90

90

90

KRATON D1102

10

KRATON D1101

10

KRATON D1184

10

@ 23 C ft-lb/in (J/m)

1.6 (85)

2.3 (125)

2.9 (155)

3.2 (170)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

310 (2.1)

281 (1.9)

256 (1.8)

255 (1.8)

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod,

Table 5. Ternary blends of KRATON D Polymers,


HIPS, and Crystal Polystyrene
Composition, parts by weight
HIPS

100

70

40

40

Crystal PS

30

60

60

KRATON D1101

15

KRATON D1102

15

1.1 (59)

1.15 (61)

1.75 (93)

0.95 (51)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

297 (2.0)

305 (2.1)

297 (2.0)

341 (2.4)

Gardner Gloss (45/45), %

14

14

33

38

Properties
Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)

Melt Index (G), g/10 min

15

14

12

17

Softening Point, C

84

87

94

93

Table 6. General Purpose Polystyrene/KRATON


D1401P Polymer (50/50) Blend Data
Polystyrene Melt Flow Index (200 C, 5 kg, g/10 min)
MI=9

MI=16

5900 (40.7)

5880 (40.5)

6.2

5.7

360 (24.8)

360 (24.8)

0.33 (17.6)

0.31 (16.5)

4.6

4.9

Tensile Properties
Tensile Strength, psi (MPa)
Elongation at Break, %
Flexural Properties
Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)
Impact Properties
1/8 Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)
Optical Properties
Haze, ASTM D1003, %

KRATON Polymers in Polypropylene


Unmodified polypropylene (PP) has the advantages of high rigidity and good heat
resistance. However, it also has poor impact resistance, particularly at low temperatures.
Blends of KRATON Polymers with PP yield compounds with much improved toughness, at
both room and low temperature. Both KRATON D and G Polymers are compatible with PP;
low molecular weight grades (D1102 or G1652) tend to give the best results due to their
ability to form a fine dispersion.
Table 7 shows the effect of adding various levels of KRATON D1102 Polymer to PP
homopolymer. At low levels, the blend shows a significant improvement in impact strength
with only a slight loss in stiffness. While at high levels, a super tough material can be
obtained. Blends of KRATON G Polymers with PP have the additional attribute of little loss
of clarity compared to original PP (especially G1652). Table 8 shows the effect of adding
various levels of either KRATON G1652 or G1650 Polymer to PP homopolymer.
Many application areas for impact modified PP require an extreme balance of high
flow, high stiffness and excellent impact performance (especially at low temperatures). In
these applications, the PP used is a high melt flow version (> 30 g/10 min) and it is often
talc filled for stiffness. These PP compounds are used in thin-walled part designs such as
automotive instrument panels and exterior bumper systems. Table 9 shows the effect of
several KRATON Polymers on the properties of a talc filled PP copolymer blend. It can be
seen that G1657 provides the best balance of flow, modulus and impact strength.

Table 7. Binary blends of KRATON D1102 Polymer with PP


Composition, %w
PP homopolymer

100

90

75

50

10

25

50

@23 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.95 (50.7)

2.1 (112)

7.8 (416)

NB1

@0 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.6 (32.0)

1.35 (72.1)

3.15 (168)

NB1

4.6 (6.2)

117 (159)

180 (>244)

>180 (>244)

@ 0 C, ft-lb/in (J)

<4 (<5.4)

37 (50)

>180 (>244)

>180 (>244)

@ -10 C, ft-lb/in (J)

<4 (<5.4)

16 (22)

160 (217)

>180 (>244)

KRATON D1102
Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod

Falling Weight Impact Strength


@ 23 C, ft-lb/in (J)

218 (1.5)

203 (1.4)

152 (1.05)

87 (0.60)

Tensile Yield Stress, psi (MPa)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

4640 (32)

4060 (28)

3260 (22.5)

1960 (13.5)

Ultimate Stress, psi (MPa)

3040 (21)

3260 (22.5)

3700 (25.5)

4350 (30)

3.5

2.8

2.5

1.8

Melt Index, g/10 min


1. NB = No Break (ductile failure)

Table 8. Binary blends of KRATON G Polymers with PP


Composition, %w
PP homopolymer

100

90

80

90

80

KRATON G1652

10

20

KRATON G1650

10

20

Properties
1/8 (3.2mm) Notched Izod,
@ 23 C ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.9 (48)

1.4 (75)

9.8 (480)

1.2 (64)

12.9 (690)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

218 (1.5)

152 (1.05)

129 (0.89)

170 (1.17)

137 (0.94)

Spiral Length, in (cm)

27.1(68.8)

26.1 (66.3)

24.4 (62.0)

25.0 (63.5)

22.6 (57.4)

Table 9. Binary blends of KRATON G Polymers


with PP Copolymer and Talc
Composition, %w
PP copolymer

100

67

67

67

67

Talc

21

21

21

21

KRATON G1650

12

KRATON G1652

12

KRATON G1657

12

KRATON G1730

12

Properties
Melt Flow Index
(230/2.16), g/10 min

27.1

11.4

16.2

20.2

18.0

@ 23 C ft-lb/in (J/m)

1.7 (91)

11.2 (600)*

9.8 (523)*

15.0 (800)*

15.1 (806)*

@-30 C ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.5 (27)

1.6 (85)

1.2 (64)

2.0(107)

1.9 (101)

1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod,

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

220 (1.52)

320 (2.21)

325 (2.24)

305 (2.10)

320 (2.21)

Tensile Strength, psi (MPa)

4290 (29.6)

3490 (24.1)

3520 (24.3)

3390 (23.4)

3360 (23.2)

> 500

310

200

190

160

76.8

80.0

79.6

78.8

78.7

Elongation @ Break, %
HDT @ 264 psi (1.82 MPa), C
* Ductile failure

10

KRATON Polymers in Low Density Polyethylene


Blends of low density polyethylene (LDPE) with KRATON Polymers can offer the advantages
of improvements in both impact resistance and stress crack resistance. As in blends of PP,
low molecular weight KRATON D1102 Polymer seems to give the best results.
The properties of several blends of D1102 Polymer and LDPE are shown in Table 10. When
more than 5% of D1102 is present, the yield stress is reduced, but this reduction does not
become really significant until the level is more than 20%. However, even at low levels (e.g.
6%), the impact resistance is increased by about 35%, while the stress crack resistance is
increased 10 times. At high levels of D1102 addition, rubbery films with a silky feel can be
obtained. Such blends may serve as alternatives to plasticized PVC film, particularly in applications where plasticizer migration or volatilization is a problem.

Table 10. Binary blends of KRATON D1102 Polymer with LDPE Film
Composition, %w
LDPE

100

98

96

94

90

80

50

10

20

50

235

250

275

295

350

570

>1000

170 (109)

195 (125)

200 (128)

230 (147)

270 (173)

335 (215)

665 (426)

1450 (10.0)

1450 (10.0)

1450 (10.0)

1380 (9.5)

1350 (9.3)

1205 (8.3)

800 (5.5)

22

22

23

24

25

25

25

14

25

40

50

70

KRATON D1102
Properties1
Dart Impact Strength2, g
Tensile Impact Strength,
ft-lb/in2 (KJ/m )
2

Yield stress, psi (MPa)


Yield Strain, %

Stress Crack Resistance,


hours3
1. Measured on blown 4 mil (0.1mm) film
2. Using 2(5.08 cm) dia dart, 60 (774 cm) drop height
3. 8 mil (0.2 mm) film welded together and immersed under stress in a 2% detergent solution of 40 C. Time is given for 50% failure.

11

KRATON Polymers
in High Density Polyethylene Blends
High density polyethylene (HDPE) shows some of the characteristics of PP. It also has good
heat resistance, but relatively poor impact strength. Pure HDPE films can have a crinkly feel,
poor impact strength and machine direction tear strength. In general, the effect of adding
KRATON Polymers can help to improve the impact strength and increase the flexibility of
the product. In films, they also help to provide an increase in film tear strength and
impact strength, while also helping to reduce sensitivity to property differences in the
flow and transverse direction of extrusion. Once again, low molecular weight KRATON
D1102 Polymer provides the best properties. Data showing these property improvements
are given in Table 11.
Blends of 50% D1102 with HDPE are unusual in that they are rubbery, show no yield
point, and have extremely high impact strength. In all of these blends, the high softening
point of the HDPE and the low glass transition temperatures of the D1102 elastomeric
midblock give the films a broad range of service temperatures sufficient to resist both
freezing and boiling.

Table 11. Binary Blends of KRATON D1102 Polymer with HDPE Film
Composition, %w
HDPE

100

90

85

80

10

15

20

62

133

150

161

KRATON D1102
Properties1
Dart Impact Strength2, g

Tensile Impact Strength, ft-lb/in2 (KJ/m2)


Machine Direction

22 (14)

25 (16)

34 (22)

48 (31)

Transverse Direction

200 (128)

280 (179)

210 (135)

195 (125)

380

680

730

665

Elmendorf Tear Strength, g


Machine Direction
Transverse Direction
Melt Flow (190/2.16), g/10 min

33

100

255

230

0.44

0.54

0.58

0.69

1. Measured on blown 1 mil film (25 micron)


2. 1 1/2 (3.80 cm) dia dart, 26 (252 cm) drop height

12

KRATON Polymers in Polyphenylene Ether


Polyphenylene ether (PPE) presents the case of an engineering thermoplastic that is
compatible with conventional KRATON Polymers, making these elastomers effective
impact modifiers for PPE. As in the case of styrenics, it appears that the larger the
MW of KRATON Polymers styrene block, the more efficiently it toughens PPE. Also, the
larger the styrene block, the lower the tendency toward delamination in the blend.
The KRATON D Polymers used for toughening PPE are the same as those used
with styrenics: D1184, D1101 and D1102, in order of decreasing MW. At the high temperatures typical for processing PPE, extreme care should be taken to avoid
excessive degradation of unsaturated KRATON D Polymers. Use a good stabilization
package and ensure that the polymer is quickly blended and dispersed within the PPE.
See precaution statements on page 18 and the back of this brochure regarding the processing of KRATON D Polymers at elevated temperatures.
If weatherability is important or limiting degradation during processing is critical,
KRATON G Polymers should be considered. KRATON G triblock candidates are
G1651, G1654, G1650 and G1652, again in order of decreasing MW. KRATON G
diblock candidates include G1701 and G1702.
Table 12 presents physical properties for binary blends of PPE with several KRATON
G Polymers.
Differences in performance seem to depend on the morphology that is developed.
For example, the G1652 exhibits a smeared out and highly continuous polymer
phase. Therefore, the properties of the soft polymer are able to be expressed with a
corresponding loss of stiffness. The G1651 blend, on the other hand, shows
well-dispersed polymer particles that produce the desired increase in toughness while
preserving much more of the flexural modulus.
Table 13 presents physical properties for PPE/PS blends of different ratios,
each containing 20%w KRATON G1651 Polymer. This shows that a large amount of
PS can be added to PPE without affecting the toughening characteristics.

13

Table 12. Binary Blends of KRATON G Polymers in PPE


Composition, %w
PPE

100

90

80

80

80

80

80

80

KRATON G1650

20

KRATON G1651

10

20

KRATON G1654

20

KRATON G1652

20

KRATON G1701

20

KRATON G1702

20

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)
@ 23 C

1.2 (64)

7.5 (400)

10.9 (582)

11.9 (635)

13.4 (715)

18.3 (977)

4.1(219)

@ -29 C

3.1(165)

@ -40 C

1.0 (53)

2.2 (117)

385 (2.65)

340 (2.34)

257 (1.77)

7.1(379)

7.4 (395)

6.5 (347)

13.5 (720)

1.6 (85)

5.9 (315)

5.2 (277)

4.5 (240)

1.6 (85)

2.1(112)

276 (1.90)

273 (1.88)

161(1.11)

290 (2.00)

307 (2.12)

Flex Modulus,
Mpsi(GPa)

Table 13. Ternary Blends of PPE, PS and


KRATON G1651 Polymer
Composition, %w
PPE

80

60

40

PS

20

40

KRATON G1651

20

20

20

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)
@ 23 C

11.9 (635)

11.3 (603)

11.6 (619)

@ -40 C

5.9 (315)

6.0 (320)

6.0 (320)

300 (2.1)

308 (2.1)

332 (2.3)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi

14

KRATON Polymers in Polycarbonate


Polycarbonate (PC) is traditionally thought of as a very tough material: 1/8 (3.2 mm)
notched Izod at room temperature in the 18 ft-lb/in (956 J/m) range. However, in thick sections, PC is quite brittle: 1/4 (6.4 mm) notched Izod at room temperature in the
2 ft-lb/in (123 J/m) range. It is believed that the change in stress distribution that results
from the increase in thickness can increase PCs yield stress.
The addition of some materials to PC leads to toughening in thick sections, probably
because they allow localized yielding. However, high molecular weight KRATON G
Polymers appear to be unique among such materials in that they are highly resistant to
delamination. This is particularly true at concentrations less than 10%. Figure 2 shows the
effectiveness of KRATON G Polymers as an impact modifier is highest at concentrations
around 5-10%. Table 14 shows properties for several blends of high molecular weight
KRATON G Polymers with PC. Note that the addition of KRATON G Polymers can lead to
improved stress crack resistance when exposed to different solvents.
PC is also not very tough after aging, especially at elevated temperatures. It undergoes
a densification process as it anneals which leads to embrittlement. Once again, the
addition of a small amount of KRATON G1651 Polymer can retard that process. Figure 3
illustrates this result for a KRATON G1651 Polymer/PC blend.

Table 14. Binary Blends of KRATON G Polymers with PC


Composition, %w
PC

100

95

95

KRATON G1651

KRATON G1702

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)
@ 23 C

17.9 (956)

15.9 (849)

13.9 (742)

@ -40 C

2.4 (128)

4.0 (214)

5.5 (294)

1/4 (6.4 mm) Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)


@ 23 C

2.3 (123)

13.9 (742)

12.9 (689)

@ -40 C

0.6 (32)

2.1(172)

2.4 (128)

>2000

>2000

Stress Crack Resistance, sec


Acetone
Unleaded Gasoline
Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

40

900

355 (2.45)

334 (2.30)

335 (2.31)

15

20
1/8" NOTCHED IZOD, FT-LB/IN

NOTCHED IZOD, FT-LB/IN

20
1/8" NOTCHED IZOD

15
10
5

1/4" NOTCHED IZOD

10

20

30

15
10
5
0

40

95/5 PCKRATON G
PC

3 4 5 6 78910

20 30 40

TIME (HR.) ANNEALED AT 120C

%W KRATON G1651

Figure 2. Toughness and Blends of


KRATONTM G1651 Polymer and PC

Figure 3. Effect of Heat Aging on Impact


Strength of Blends of KRATONTM G
Polymer and PC

KRATON Polymers in Blends with Polyamides


To improve compatibility with polar ETPs such as polyamides (PA), KRATON Polymers
developed KRATON FG1901 Polymer, a functionalized block copolymer produced by
maleation of an SEBS triblock copolymer.
KRATON FG1901 Polymer can be an effective modifier for toughening of PA-6,6 and
PA-6. The saturated rubber midblock allows FG1901 to stand up to ETP processing conditions with heat aging resistance and good weatherability. Table 15 shows the properties of
several blends of PA-6,6 with FG1901. Both FG1901 or a combination of FG1901 and
G1657 can be used to toughen PA-6,6.
Table 16 shows the properties for blends of PA-6 with functionalized KRATON Polymers.
It can be seen that functionalized KRATON Polymers with a lower level of functionality or
a combination of FG1901 and G1657 are needed to achieve high toughness in PA-6.

Table 15. KRATON FG1901 Polymer in Blends with PA-6,6


Composition, %w
PA-6,6

100

80

80

80

80

KRATON FG1901

20

16

12

KRATON G1657

12

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod
@ 23 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.8 (43)

19.8 (1057)

20.8 (1110)

20.2 (1078)

19.9 (1062)

@ -29 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

0.7 (37)

3.3 (176)

4.0 (214)

4.8 (256)

5.1 (272)

430 (2.96)

294 (2.03)

280 (1.93)

270 (1.86)

270 (1.86)

Strength, Mpsi (MPa)

6.6 (45.5)

6.7 (46.2)

6.5 (45)

6.5 (45)

Elongation, %

73

50

26

24

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)


Tensile Properties

16

Table 16. Functionalized KRATON Polymers in Blends with PA-6


Composition, %w
PA-6

100

80

80

80

80

KRATON FG1901

20

12

KRATON G1657

12

16

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod
@ 23 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

1.2 (64)

3.5 (187)

13.6 (726)

20.2 (1078)

21.5(1148)

@ -29 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)

1.0 (53)

1.8 (96)

2.7 (144)

3.2 (171)

5.0 (267)

390 (2.7)

260 (1.8)

250 (1.7)

250 (1.7)

250 (1.7)

Strength, Mpsi (MPa)

7.3 (50)

7.3 (50)

6.7 (46)

5.8 (40)

Elongation, %

166

190

155

91

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)


Tensile Properties

KRATON Polymers in Blends with Polyesters


KRATON FG1901Polymer can also be used as a toughener for polyesters such as PBT and
PET. Table 17 shows the properties of several blends with FG1901. Table 18 demonstrates
KRATON FG1901 Polymers ability to stand up to severe heat and UV aging tests in blends
with PBT.

Table 17. KRATON FG1901 Polymer in Blends with Polyesters


Composition, %w
PBT

100

70

PET

100

80

KRATON FG1901

30

20

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod
@ 23 C, ft-lb/in (J/m)
Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)

0.8 (43)

18.2 (970)

0.5 (27)

13.1 (700)

360 (2.5)

240 (1.65)

400 (2.75)

250 (1.7)

17

Table 18. Heat and UV Aging of KRATON FG1901 Polymer


Blends with PBT
Unaged

Oven Aged1

UV Aged2

PBT

70

70

70

KRATON FG1901

30

30

30

Composition, %w

Properties
1/8 (3.2 mm) Notched Izod, ft-lb/in (J/m)
@ 23 C

18.2 (970)

14.2 (760)

22.4 (1200)

@ -29 C

2.0 (106)

1.9 (100)

1.9 (100)

240 (1.65)

227 (1.55)

238 (1.64)

Flex Modulus, Mpsi (GPa)


1. Oven aging at 150 C for 72 hours

2. Carbon arc weatherometer UV aging for 360 hours

Processing KRATON Polymers


A general rule for melt blending KRATON Polymers with thermoplastics is to use
the normal processing conditions for the specific thermoplastic. A twin screw extruder is
recommended to achieve the desired level of dispersion of KRATON Polymers in the
thermoplastic matrix. However, for some blend systems, the mixing performed by a single
screw extruder may be sufficient. The configuration of the extruder should be set up to
achieve a high level of shear. The viscosity of KRATON Polymers is little affected by
changes in temperature. Therefore, to improve the mixing of KRATON Polymers with a
thermoplastic, the level of shear should be increased.
KRATON D Polymers are unsaturated and therefore are susceptible to attack by oxygen,
ozone and ultraviolet radiation. As manufactured, they contain sufficient antioxidants to
protect them against oxidation during manufacture, shipment and storage. To
protect the polymer during processing and during its service life, additional stabilizer
should be added when blending. KRATON G Polymers also contain a low level of
phenolic antioxidant as manufactured. Although the stability of these polymers is much
better than that of KRATON D Polymers, it is a good practice to include additional
stabilizer in blends containing even these stable polymers.
In stabilizing blends of KRATON Polymers and thermoplastics, it is important to
stabilize the thermoplastic component as well as the elastomer. Usually, the stabilizer for
the thermoplastic component of the blend will also act to stabilize KRATON Polymers. A
typical package for stabilizing KRATON Polymers during processing and heat aging is a
hindered phenol such as Irganox 1010 (Ciba Specialty Chemicals) and dilauryl
thiodiproprionate (DLTDP). A common UV stabilizer is a benzotriazole such as Tinuvin 327
(Ciba Specialty Chemicals).

18

Restriction on Medical/Healthcare Applications


DO NOT USE KRATON POLYMERS PRODUCTS IN ANY DEVICES OR MATERIALS INTENDED FOR TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT
IMPLANTATION IN THE HUMAN BODY. THE KRATON POLYMERS BUSINESS ALSO RESTRICTS THE USE OF ITS ELASTOMERS
PRODUCTS IN OTHER MEDICAL/HEALTHCARE APPLICATIONS. Please contact your KRATON Polymers Sales Representative for
more details.
THE KRATON POLYMERS BUSINESS HAS NO SPECIFIC EXPERTISE IN THE MEDICAL/HEALTHCARE MARKET OR APPLICATIONS
and does not intend to perform testing, clinical studies or other investigations of the suitability of its products for specific medical/healthcare applications. KRATON Polymers products are generally manufactured for use in a variety of commercial applications.
DO NOT USE THE TRADENAMES, TRADEMARKS, LOGOS OR OTHER SIMILAR IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS OF THE
KRATON POLYMERS BUSINESS IN THE MANUFACTURE, SALE OR PROMOTION OF MEDICAL DEVICES OR MATERIALS.
THE KRATON POLYMERS BUSINESS MAKES NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PURPOSES
(INCLUDING MEDICAL APPLICATIONS) FOR ITS ELASTOMERS PRODUCTS.
Each customer or user of KRATON Polymers products is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the materials they
select for the intended purpose. With regards to medical/healthcare applications, each customer or user must conduct their
own studies, registrations, and other related activities to establish the safety and efficacy of their products.
Precautions
Read the Material Safety Data Sheet for KRATON Polymer products carefully and thoroughly before beginning any work with
this product. KRATON Polymers and compounds can accumulate electrostatic charges when rubbed, chafed or abraded. Equipment
should provide a means of dissipating any charges that may develop. Processing of KRATON Polymers and
compounds in high shear equipment can cause the temperature to rise. Do not allow the temperature to exceed 225-230C
(437-446F) for KRATON D Polymers and compounds and 280-285C (536-545F) for KRATON G Polymers and compounds.
Maintain a fire watch if these temperatures are reached. KRATON Polymer products (the neat resin or the base product) are
high molecular weight polymers which by all accounts are non-toxic and biologically inactive.
Warranty
The information contained in this publication is, to the best of our knowledge, true and accurate, but any recommendations or suggestions which may be made are without guarantee, since the conditions of use are beyond our control. Furthermore,
nothing contained herein shall be construed as a recommendation to use any product in conflict with existing patents covering any
material or its use.
All products purchased from or supplied by the KRATON Polymers Business are subject to terms and
conditions set out in the contract, order acknowledgement and/or bill of lading. The KRATON Polymers Business warrants only that
its products will meet those specifications designated as such herein or in other publications.
All other information supplied by the KRATON Polymers Business is considered accurate but is furnished upon the express
condition that the customer shall make their own assessment to determine the products suitability for a particular purpose. The
KRATON Polymers Business makes no other warranty, either express or implied, including those regarding such other information, the data upon which the same is based, or the results to be obtained from
the use thereof; that any products shall be merchantable or fit for any particular purpose; or that the
use of such other information or product will not infringe any patent.
KRATON, its logo, and associated images are trademarks.

For further information:

Contact us:
Marketing
Communications Manager
KRATON Polymers
Stellar House
Barbour Square
High Street
Chester
CH3 9RF, UK

In the USA: call toll free


1-800-4KRATON
(1-800-457-2866, Option 2)

KRATON Polymers
P. O. Box 2463
Houston, TX 77252-2463

In Europe/Africa
fax +44-(0)20-7934-6340
In Asia-Pacific
fax +81-3-5500-3259
or contact your local KRATON Polymers
representative

Visit us at: www.KRATON.com


TM

K0136BRb-00U
(Supercedes SC: 165-93)
10M 6/00
KRATON Polymers. All rights reserved.

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