IMPACT MODIFICATION | MATERIALS
From sports equipment to automotive parts, the need for plastics to resist impacts is vital across many applications.
Sustainability issues must also be addressed, writes Chris Saunders
Bracing for impact: making tougher compounds
As the plastics industry navigates a transformative period defined by circular economy targets, lightweighting, and stringent safety regulations, impact modification has evolved into a critical tool for compounders. Growing adoption of recycled plastics in car applications and rising demand for lightweight yet durable construction materials are accelerating automotive market expansion. Durable household and industrial goods are also incorporating recycled plastics while needing to display impact resistance. However, post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic materials often suffer from degraded mechanical properties due to heat history in the recycling process and require additives to restore or improve impact strength. In addition to the challenge of PCR incorporation, compounders are looking to improve impact performance of bio-based plastics, engineering polymers and styrenic materials. Avient recently launched the Nymax REC 6000 High Impact series, an impact-modified, recycled
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polyamide line featuring 22 grades to help customers support circular economy goals and lower product carbon footprint (PCF) while maintaining performance on par with prime PA grades. The materials incorporate 42% to 93% post-industrial recycled (PIR) content, helping customers meet their sustainability targets without compromising on impact resistance, durability, or dimensional stability. The 22 formulations include eight unfilled
grades and 14 glass-fibre-reinforced grades containing up to 30% glass fibre, with each offering tailored impact performance for a wide range of temperatures and requirements. Supported by Avient’s PCF Calculator, which is TÜV-certified and aligned with ISO 14067, these materials deliver up to 83% reduction in carbon footprint versus prime versions. Target uses include applications across the automotive, building and construction, and consumer industries. “Avient is proud to deliver solutions that align
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