Scientifically selected high-efficiency hydrophilic masterbatch

In today's market where functional masterbatches are flourishing, hydrophilic masterbatches, as a key material for enhancing the value of non-woven fabrics, films, and fibers, have become a "standard" for many downstream enterprises. However, in the face of a wide variety of product models on the market, uneven performance indicators, and significant price differences, how to scientifically and accurately select a hydrophilic masterbatch that suits one's own process and end application has become a practical problem for purchasing personnel and technical staff.

Hydrophilic masterbatch is a functional masterbatch used to improve the hydrophilic properties of polymer materials. It is primarily made by adding hydrophilic additives combined with a carrier resin that has good compatibility with the target substrate. Compared to traditional surface spraying or post-finishing processes, the masterbatch method provides more stable and durable hydrophilic effects without affecting the original mechanical properties of the material. So, with numerous options available, how should companies make their decision?

I. Substrate Compatibility: Choosing the Right Carrier is the First Step

The primary principle for selecting hydrophilic masterbatch is to ensure that its carrier resin is completely compatible with the base resin used in your production.

Polypropylene (PP) System: If your product is polypropylene spunbond nonwoven fabric, meltblown fabric, or BOPP film, you need to choose a hydrophilic masterbatch with PP as the carrier.

Polyester (PET) System: For polyester fibers or engineering plastics, a polyester-based hydrophilic masterbatch is required.

Using masterbatch that is incompatible with the substrate can lead to uneven dispersion and increased crystal points, or even cause fiber breakage and film bubble rupture, severely affecting production stability.

II. Hydrophilic Performance Indicators: Measuring "Penetration Power" with Data

1. Water Absorption Time: This is the most intuitive indicator, usually measured by "water absorption time at a 45° angle." The industry standard for high-quality products is typically ≤5 seconds. That is, water droplets can be completely absorbed within 5 seconds of contacting the material surface, indicating excellent instantaneous hydrophilicity.

2. Water Absorption Capacity: Reflects how much moisture the material can retain. A common indicator is "absorbency ≥ 3-8 times its own weight". For hygiene products or medical dressings, the higher this indicator, the greater the product's liquid absorption capacity.

3. Rinse Durability: For products that require multiple uses, the durability of hydrophilicity needs to be considered. Some high-quality masterbatches claim that their products can withstand more than 10 rinses, ensuring that the hydrophilic effect does not significantly decrease after washing.

III. Processing Technology Matching: Fluidity Determines "Usability"

The melt index (MFI) of the masterbatch must be compatible with the processing window of the production equipment to ensure good flowability and dispersion.

Spunbond/Meltblown Nonwoven Fabric: This process requires the melt to have high fluidity to form fine filaments through the spinneret. Therefore, the melt index of the hydrophilic masterbatch used for nonwoven fabric is usually higher.

Film/Injection Molded Products: If used for cast films or injection molded parts, an appropriate melt index masterbatch should be selected based on the specific process to avoid screw slippage or poor dispersion due to excessive difference in fluidity.

IV. Environmental Compliance: The Unbreakable Red Line

As global requirements for the environmental protection of consumer products become increasingly stringent, especially when applied to hygiene products, medical materials, and food-contact grade products, the safety of masterbatches is of utmost importance.

Certification qualifications: Choose suppliers that have been certified by authoritative institutions such as ISO and SGS to ensure that the products comply with international regulations such as RoHS, REACH, and FDA.

Non-toxic and odorless: High-quality masterbatches should use non-toxic hydrophilic additives to ensure that no irritating gases are released during the production process and final use, and that they do not cause allergic reactions on the skin.