Nano Calcium Carbonate (Nano CaCO3)
Nano calcium carbonate is a commonly used filler in transparent polymer applications. It can enhance mechanical properties such as stiffness and impact resistance while maintaining transparency. Nano CaCO3 particles are smaller than conventional calcium carbonate, which allows for better dispersion and reduces the risk of affecting transparency.
Silica (Silicon Dioxide)
Silica nanoparticles can be used as fillers in transparent polymer matrices. They can improve mechanical properties and scratch resistance while providing transparency. Silica is often used in combination with other additives to enhance compatibility and dispersion.
Polymer Blends
Instead of using fillers, transparent polymer blends can be formulated by blending different polymers with complementary properties. For example, blending polystyrene with polyethylene can improve stiffness and impact resistance while maintaining transparency.
Acrylic Resins
Acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) are commonly used in transparent applications. PMMA offers excellent optical clarity, weatherability, and chemical resistance. It can be used as a standalone polymer or blended with other additives to achieve specific performance requirements.
Other Specialty Additives
Various specialty additives such as impact modifiers, UV stabilizers, antioxidants, and processing aids can be used to enhance the properties of transparent polymers. These additives can be tailored to specific performance requirements without affecting transparency significantly.
Nanoclay
Nanoclay particles can be dispersed within a polymer matrix to improve mechanical properties and barrier properties while maintaining transparency. Nanoclay is particularly effective in barrier applications such as food packaging.
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)
While titanium dioxide is primarily used as a white pigment, it can also be used in transparent polymers at lower concentrations to improve opacity and UV resistance. However, higher concentrations of TiO2 may affect transparency.