MASTERBATCH | MARKETS
Assessing AI and new trends in masterbatches
Masterbatches provide processors with additives or pigments (colours, blacks, and whites) in a format that is easier to handle, dose, and disperse com- pared to neat materials, which can include powders that require special handling. Masterbatch and concentrate suppliers also keep a close eye on what their customers require to keep up with trends in their end-use markets as well as to make their thermoplastic compounds or parts efficiently. Packaging (both rigid and flexible) continues to be the largest market for concentrates, said AMI Consulting in a keynote address on trends in thermoplastics concentrates at the North American Compounding World Expo (November, Cleveland, US). Smaller but important markets include consumer goods, building and infrastructure, automotive and others. Recycling – both designing formulations for recycling as well as using recycled materials – is a key driver, particularly in packaging. Regulatory changes are a challenge that masterbatch suppliers are prepared to address. A top concern recently has been restrictions on per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which continue to drive conversion from fluoropolymers to alternative processing aids used as additives in thermoplastics. New alternatives were discussed in detail in the April 2025 issue of Compounding World, including masterbatches developed to
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Colour and additive masterbatches continue to play a key role in producing thermoplastics compounds that meet market demands. Jennifer Markarian reports on market trends
provide the performance necessary to support smooth extrusion and lower melt temperatures. Today, suppliers see increasing complexity as they formulate masterbatches to meet demands for sustainability, performance, and cost-efficiency as well as regulatory requirements. Innovations in additives, polymers, equipment, and processing tools support these efforts. The increased use of post-consumer recyclate (PCR) globally is leading to changes in compound- ing. “Our customers are facing growing challenges in balancing performance, cost, and sustainability. Our job is to help them meet these demands through smarter, more efficient additive solutions,” said Asaf Eylon, President of Additives & Whites at Tosaf. “While essential for circularity, recycled polymers tend to show oxidation, colour instability,
Main image: Masterbatch producers are increasingly using AI to improve their products and operations
December 2025 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 23
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
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