PLASTICS ADDITIVES – FRAGRANCES
Please Note: This page is for information purposes only. Rutland Plastics is an Injection Moulder and does not supply plastics additives.
INTRODUCTION
Have you ever thought how good it would be to add a fragrance to the plastic product you are designing? Or maybe, you require a fragranced part but do not know how to produce it.
An increasing number of plastic products are having fragrances added to enhance their appeal or to serve a specific function. Fragrances are generally added as a masterbatch at the time of manufacture of the finished part, frequently along with the colour. Deodorisers may also be added to enhance the performance and absorb unwanted odours.
Fragrances are available in standard forms, such as fruits like apple, but can also be bespoke to match a specific fragrance – a well known perfume, for example. Due to their sensitivity to temperature they are usually added to polyolefins rather than high temperature materials, such as nylon.
APPLICATIONS
There is a wide variety of applications, some surprising. Much of the early development was directed towards bin liners and, in particular nappy disposal bags. It has now progressed to scented discs to place in clothes drawers and wardrobes and some room fragrance diffusers.
Other domestic applications include laundry baskets, sink plugs, fridge fresheners and pet tags.
Industrial applications include incorporating fragrances into plastics around public areas of hotels and offices. Some stores have also incorporated fragrances into plastic parts to create a mood. Some experiments have been carried out with beverage and food packaging as a way of attracting consumers attention.