Masterbatch Development with New Stretching Machine

LyondellBasell, a prominent player in the chemical industry, has recently integrated the state-of-the-art KARO® 5.0 laboratory stretching machine from Brückner Maschinenbau into its research and development facilities at the LYB Technical Center in Akron, Ohio. This strategic enhancement is set to significantly advance the company's ability to develop and test masterbatch solutions tailored for various oriented film applications.

The KARO® 5.0 machine marks a pivotal advancement in LyondellBasell's research capabilities, allowing for more precise and efficient development and testing of masterbatch solutions. "This advanced technology will allow us to accelerate the development of new and improved masterbatch solutions, ultimately helping our customers bring their products to market faster and with greater confidence," stated Tiago Piccoli, LYB Director of APS PAD for Consumer & Industrial Markets in the Americas.

The KARO® 5.0 stretching machine is equipped with multiple cutting-edge features that enhance the testing and development process:

• Multi-Cast Film Capabilities: Allows testing a broader range of masterbatch materials.
• Dual Direction Stretch: Provides stretch capabilities in both the machine direction (MD) and transverse direction (TD), closely simulating real-world production conditions.
• Comprehensive Monitoring: Tracks various material characteristics such as tension, elongation, torque, temperature, and thickness to ensure top performance and quality.

By enabling a closer match to masterbatch materials used in actual production processes, the KARO® 5.0 significantly reduces the time required to bring new products to market. It enhances LyondellBasell's speed-to-market process, offering customers the ability to rapidly identify and select the optimal masterbatch for their specific needs.

"The addition of the KARO® 5.0 reinforces our technical leadership and commitment to innovation in the masterbatch industry," commented Chuck Hampton, LYB Director of Masterbatch and Colors U.S. & Canada. The new technology not only complements LYB's testing assets in Europe but also extends its advanced R&D capabilities to the Americas, benefiting global customers with innovative masterbatch solutions.

The KARO® 5.0 supports LYB's Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) and Olefins and Polyolefins (O&P) business segments by enhancing product development for applications such as protective films and food packaging. Testing with the new equipment is already underway, showcasing LyondellBasell's dedication to creating advanced solutions that cater to a diverse range of industry needs.