Overview
Kristalex™ hydrocarbon resins are made from a mixture of purified styrenic monomers. Varying the proportions of the monomers and the molecular weight of the polymer results in a diverse range of products. A major application of Kristalex™ resins is the modification of the end-blocks of styrenic block copolymers. The grades of Kristalex™ resins with low softening points will tend to soften and contribute to the tack of block copolymer formulations while the higher softening point grades tend to strengthen the end-blocks and increase cohesion and high temperature resistance. Kristalex™ hydrocarbon resins are made from pure monomers so they are water-white in color and extremely stable against thermal and oxidative degradation. In addition, their aromatic nature makes them extremely compatible with polymers that contain styrene. Kristalex™ LV grades have very low organic content. Kristalex™ resins are also used in EVA packaging adhesives to provide specific adhesion properties. Other uses for Kristalex™ resins include coatings, clear sealants, laminating adhesives, textile dry sizes, and plastic modification.
Physical Properties Comparison:
Aromatic pure monomer hydrocarbon resins
Hot melt adhesives, sealants, coatings, rubber and plastic modification
Water-white initial color, excellent color stability, wide product range, compatibility with a wide range of alkyd resins, plastics, styrene-containing elastomers, waxes and high vinyl acetate content EVA, low volatile content (applies to LV grades only)
Nonwoven assembly, hot melt pressure sensitive adhesives, clear sealants, caulks, bookbinding, plastic film modification, tire additives