MARKETS | MASTERBATCH
lie in maintaining consistent PCR quality and odor, balancing brand colour requirements with recy- cling guidelines, and navigating evolving, non- harmonised regulations. Scaling circular feedstocks at a competitive cost also remains difficult. At LYB, we address these challenges through advanced polyolefin solutions and circular products designed to help customers achieve recycled-content and carbon dioxide reduction goals while supporting mono-material design without compromising material performance or processing efficiency.” New high-load LYB masterbatches offer im-
Above: Gabriel- Chemie Group opened its expanded masterbatch production site in Hungary in October
and processing variability. In parallel, compound- ers, recyclers, and polymer producers are looking for more efficient additive delivery systems that simplify handling and improve consistency. Tosaf’s One-Pack Solutions (OPS) address this need through compact, pelletised additive blends that eliminate the use of powders, improving process efficiency, reducing waste, and creating safer production environments.” “Recyclability, stability and durability are essential to sustainable performance,” said Eylon. He pointed to new longer-lasting stabilisation systems that maintain colour, reduce waste, and extend product life as a shift in additive technology. Compatibilisers could become increasingly important, as compounders look to natural fibers and fillers to improve sustainability. In PET recycling in particular, additive advances include chain extenders that restore intrinsic viscosity and toners to neutralise yellowing, he noted. In another aspect of sustainability, Tosaf is developing next-generation halogen-free flame retardants (HFFR) that reduce environmental impact, meet flame retardancy standards, and offer value and affordability. “Most of Tosaf’s growth in this segment today comes from HFFR products, reflecting where the market is headed,” said Eylon.
Increased use of PCR In the US, state-level recycled-content and packag- ing EPR rules are driving demand for PCR-compati- ble, food-contact compliant masterbatches and verified chain-of-custody systems, such as ISCC PLUS, said LyondellBasell (LYB), which supplies compounds and masterbatches. “Customers are increasingly prioritising verified
recycled and renewable content, lower carbon footprints, compliance with food-contact and durability standards and additives that maintain mechanical properties across multiple recycling cycles,” said the company. “The biggest challenges
24 COMPOUNDING WORLD | December 2025
proved dispersion at low let-down ratios and are formulated to be compatible with a high percent- age of PCR material in the final formulation. Additives, such as odor neutralisers, absorbers and compatibilisers, are improving the quality of mixed-stream recycled PP and PE by stabilising flow and impact properties, LYB noted. European masterbatch supplier Gabriel-Chemie
celebrated 75 years this September since its company’s founding and more than 50 years of masterbatch production. The Gabriel-Chemie Group also opened its expanded masterbatch production site in Hungary in October, with space to add additional extruders and increase the number of lines from 10 to up to 19. A key trend shaping the thermoplastic master-
batch industry in Europe is a growing interest in recycled and bio-based materials, which Gabriel- Chemie is supporting with additive solutions, the company said. In addition, evolving legislation and various sustainability reporting standards require more documentation, traceability, and transparency throughout the entire supply chain. A challenge in Europe is low-price raw materials and standard masterbatches coming from Asian markets. “Price fluctuations and supply instability have become constant challenges. Gabriel-Che- mie’s answer to this is a long-term, partnership- oriented approach: ensuring stable product quality, offering specialised and customised masterbatch solutions, and maintaining flexibility in sourcing and production, while providing compre- hensive support to our customers throughout the entire process,” the company said.
Performance and efficiency Masterbatch supplier Delta Tecnic, which focuses on PVC markets and wire and cable with PVC and other polymers, sees tighter regulations affecting its customers. In addition to broad regulations such as the EUs REACH and RoHS, the stringent French CSTB (Scientific and Technical Center for Building) certification for outdoor construction materials is
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IMAGE: GABRIEL-CHEMIE
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