In chemical industry, a basic polymer is incorporated into a plastic compound with different additives, which are chemical compounds added to increase the performance, functionality and aged properties of the polymer. The most regularly used additives in diverse types of polymeric packaging materials are plasticizers, flame retardants, antioxidants, acid scavengers, light and heat stabilizers, lubricants, pigments, antistatic agents, slip compounds and thermal stabilizers. Each of them shows a varied role in delivering/enhancing the functional properties of a plastic product. Furthermore, additives are also used in food industry. They are added to foods to improve their superiority and safety, to extend the shelf life, to change the taste, smell/odour, solidity and appearance of the foods, or to substitute certain ingredients
Performance additives lift up the engine efficiency and its pressure and temperature bearing capacity along with reducing the friction between moving parts. These additives are used in an extensive range of applications. They also help to upsurge fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, increase fuel economy and protect against corrosion.
Growth and expansion in the packaging and chemical industry have led to the intensification in demand for additives as they offer enhanced features such as toughness, process ability, and appearance of the final output. The escalation in demand and adoption of plastic products in place of conventional material is also stimulating the demand for additives worldwide. The foremost factors driving the growth of the market are the replacement of conventional materials by plastics in several applications, and increasing demand for plastic in developing nations.
