ODOUR REDUCTION | TECHNOLOGY
Research into improved solutions for both detection and reduction of odours and emissions aims to support the growing use of PCR, reports Jennifer Markarian
Ways to solve the odour problem with recyclate
Malodours can be a tricky problem in plastics applications. One challenge is that what is consid- ered an unpleasant smell can vary by culture and even by person. Another challenge is that while the human nose can be very sensitive to what is repellent, detecting these components and identifying their source is another matter. As the plastics industry moves ahead with using more mechanically recycled post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, the problem becomes even more pressing, as odours can remain from previous uses or result from degradation or other reactions. New technologies aim for improved detection of
volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) that cause malodours. Addi- tives can be used to mask or neutralise odours, and both additive and processing technologies work to remove culprit compounds. In ABS and PC/ABS applications, mandates for
recycled content are pushing more PCR and post-industrial recycled ABS into blends, but the resulting odour can be a challenge for meeting
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specifications, especially for interior automotive parts where specifications are increasingly tighter, said Torey McCleskey, COO at CAI Performance Additives. Blends with higher recycled content may pass mechanical tests but fail on VOC or odour levels, he explained. The company’s solution is LDV8010, a VOC
removal masterbatch in an ABS carrier that re- moves odour sources during the compounding process. The additive masterbatch creates a foam in the melt of the extruder; VOCs bind to the foam and are vented from the extruder during devolatili- sation. Typical dosage is 1-2%. Tests of 2% of the masterbatch in a 60/40 PC/ABS blend showed odour level improved from 4.6 down to 3.5 without affecting mechanical properties, McCleskey reported. Similarly, total VOCs were reduced with 2% of the masterbatch in a 50/50 PC/ABS blend. In foamed applications that use azodicarbona- mide (ADC or azo) foaming agents, a bad smell can result from decomposition of the ADC. CAI’s ST-BA13MB is an endothermic foaming agent
Main image: New technolo- gies aim for improved detection of volatile organic compounds that cause malodours
July 2026 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 23
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
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