Compounds (plastic compounds)
Description (definition)
Plastic compounds are tailor-made material mixtures, also known as tailor-made compounds, which are created by combining a base polymer with additives, fillers, reinforcing materials or colorants. The aim of a compound is to improve specific properties such as strength, heat resistance or UV stability. Compounds play a central role in the manufacture of plastic products, as they make it possible to tailor materials precisely to the requirements of the respective application.
Example
A typical example is the use of glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene compounds in automotive engineering. These materials are particularly light and stable, which makes them ideal for components such as bumpers and door panels.
What are the main advantages of plastic compounds?
Plastic compounds offer a high degree of flexibility in material development. They enable the optimization of properties such as thermal conductivity, impact resistance or chemical resistance. This makes them indispensable for industries such as automotive engineering, electronics or medical technology, where customized materials are required.
How are plastic compounds manufactured?
Compounds are manufactured using an extrusion process. The base polymer is mixed with the desired additives or fillers under heat and pressure. The result is a homogeneous material that is supplied in granulate form and can be further processed in production.
Where are plastic compounds frequently used?
Compounds are used in the automotive industry (e.g. for lightweight and robust components), the construction industry (e.g. for UV-resistant cladding) and electronics (e.g. for heat-resistant housings). They are also widely used in the medical technology and packaging industries.