Traditionally, the conductivity of plastics has relied on carbon technology, which limits color options and restricts conductivity and electromagnetic shielding levels due to the maximum absorption capacity of the polymers. Delta Tecnic presents an alternative: the incorporation of metallic fibers into plastic compounds. This development allows for the creation of conductive plastics that not only offer greater electromagnetic efficiency but can also be manufactured in a wide range of colors, something previously unthinkable with carbon-based solutions.
This metallic fiber masterbatch is composed of 75% metallic fibers and 25% polymer and is dosed directly into injection molding or compounding processes. This blend allows customers, typically manufacturers of technical compounds, to produce compounds for conductive plastic parts with color freedom and enables the replacement of metal parts with plastic parts, while maintaining conductive and electromagnetic shielding properties.
Key applications: automotive, PVC, and more.
One of the most prominent applications of this technology is electromagnetic shielding in automotive parts. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, where high-voltage cables generate electromagnetic fields that can interfere with other electronic systems, plastic parts that previously did not require protection now need efficient shielding.
Furthermore, this advancement also has applications in the production of conductive PVC flooring, used in environments where dissipating electrostatic energy is essential, such as hospitals. PVC flooring manufactured with this masterbatch allows for the transmission of electrical energy without accumulating charge.
Another interesting application is the production of conductive wheels, such as those used on industrial carts for moving raw materials in factories and other industries. These conductive wheels prevent the buildup of static electricity that could damage equipment or even pose a risk of electric shock.
The metallic fibers within the plastic matrix help create a Faraday cage, which acts as a barrier against electromagnetic interference generated by magnetic fields. This type of solution is vital in an increasingly connected environment, where data transmission and the security of electronic systems are fundamental, and the reduction or elimination of all types of interference is crucial.
