Micronized oxidized polyethylene wax (MPOW) serves various purposes in water-based hot melt adhesives, providing several benefits to the adhesive formulation. Here are some common uses of MPOW in water-based hot melt adhesives:
Improving Rheology
MPOW can act as a rheology modifier in water-based hot melt adhesive formulations. It helps to control the viscosity and flow behavior of the adhesive, ensuring proper application and bonding.
Enhancing Adhesive Properties
Incorporating MPOW into water-based hot melt adhesives can improve their adhesive properties, including tackiness, adhesion strength, and cohesion. This results in better bonding performance on various substrates.
Reducing Blocking
Blocking is the tendency of adhesive-coated surfaces to stick together under pressure or high temperatures. MPOW acts as an anti-blocking agent, reducing this tendency and preventing the adhesive layers from sticking together prematurely.
Enhancing Open Time
Open time refers to the period during which the adhesive remains workable after application before it sets. MPOW can extend the open time of water-based hot melt adhesives, providing more time for assembly or positioning of substrates before bonding occurs.
Preventing Stringing
Stringing or “cobwebbing” occurs when excess adhesive strands form between the substrate and the application nozzle during dispensing. MPOW helps to reduce stringing by improving the adhesive’s flow properties and minimizing viscosity fluctuations.
Improving Thermal Stability
MPOW can enhance the thermal stability of water-based hot melt adhesives, allowing them to maintain their adhesive properties over a wider temperature range without degradation or loss of performance.
Reducing Foaming
Foaming can occur during adhesive application due to the entrapment of air bubbles in the adhesive. MPOW can help reduce foaming tendencies, resulting in smoother adhesive application and better bonding.
Enhancing Surface Appearance
MPOW can improve the surface appearance of bonded assemblies by reducing visible adhesive lines or “squeeze out” and providing a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing bond line.