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Oxidized polyethylene wax is widely used as a viscosity modifier in systems such as hot-melt adhesives. Its mechanism of action and performance advantages are as follows:
Reducing system viscosity: OPE wax is characterised by low viscosity and a high softening point. At high temperatures, it effectively reduces the melt viscosity of hot-melt adhesives, improving flow properties and facilitating application and processing.
Enhanced wetting and adhesion: Polar groups such as carbonyl and hydroxyl groups on its molecular chains enhance compatibility with polar resins and substrates, thereby improving wetting properties and ultimate bond strength.
Multifunctional synergy: In addition to viscosity regulation, it also provides lubrication, dispersion and coupling effects, which help to uniformly disperse pigments and fillers, reduce equipment wear, and improve the surface gloss of the finished product.
Typical Applications
Hot-melt adhesives: Acts as a core viscosity-modifying component to optimise application performance and bonding effectiveness.
Water-based coatings and inks: Modulates rheological properties whilst providing scratch resistance and anti-blocking properties.
Plastic processing (e.g. PVC, PE): Balances internal and external lubrication during extrusion and injection moulding, and controls melt viscosity.
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