In the modern world where polymer and plastic industries play a vital role in everyday life, it is of great importance to maintain the quality and durability of these materials against environmental factors. One of the most important threats to polymers is thermal degradation and oxidation during the production process or product life. In the meantime, antioxidants are known as effective solutions. One of these important compounds is Antioxidant 802.
Antioxidant 802: Structure and Function
Antioxidant 802 is a thioester-type secondary antioxidant known by the chemical name dioctadecyl 3,3′-thiodipropionate. This compound is specifically designed to enhance the long-term thermal stability (LTTS) of various polymers.
This additive is usually used alongside primary phenolic antioxidants such as Antioxidant 1010 or Antioxidant 1076. These two groups of antioxidants can effectively prevent the degradation of polymer structures by heat and oxygen by creating a synergistic effect.
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Chemical Structure: Dioctadecyl Thiodipropionate
- Appearance: White or cream-colored powder
- High melting point, suitable for high temperature applications
- Very low volatility – useful for extrusion and injection processes
- Insoluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents
- Compatible with thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers
- Approved for use in contact with food according to international standards
Function of Antioxidant 802 in polymers
Antioxidant 802 acts as a peroxide free radical scavenger. In polymer production processes, especially at high temperatures, polymers tend to form free radicals, which lead to the destruction of molecular chains and ultimately to discoloration, brittleness, loss of mechanical properties and reduced product shelf life.
By interrupting these chain reactions, 802, along with primary antioxidants, prevents thermal and oxidative degradation and ensures polymer stability during processing and throughout the use period.
Applications Various Industries
Manufacturers widely use this antioxidant in polymer compounds, especially when long-term thermal stability is required. The most important applications include:
- Cable and wire industry
- Polyethylene (PE) electrical cables
- XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) cables
- Protection of cables against high heat, UV and oxidation
- Polymer pipe industry
- HDPE and PP pipes
- Increase the useful life of pipes in water supply or industrial applications
- Prevent brittleness in hot or pressurized environments
- Automotive industry
- Polyolefins used in the engine compartment of cars
- Resistance to high temperatures and corrosive compounds
- Maintaining the appearance and flexibility of decorative and functional parts
- General and industrial polymers
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- ABS, HIPS, and other styrene copolymers
Dosage and method of use
The dosage of this additive depends on the type of polymer and conditions The process varies. Typical amounts used are:
- In XLPE cables: about 0.02 to 0.03% by weight
- In other general applications: between 0.05% and 0.1%
Many formulations combine Antioxidant 802 with other additives such as UV absorbers, Antioxidant 1010, and light stabilizers.
Benefits of using Antioxidant 802
- Increases long-term thermal stability
- Reduces the possibility of discoloration, brittleness or loss of performance
- Improves the processability of the polymer at high temperatures
- Prevents degradation during storage and use
- Suitable for extrusion, injection molding, film forming, etc.
- Compatible with food product formulations
Antioxidant 802 is an essential chemical compound in the production of many polymer products. Due to its unique properties – including high thermal stability, low volatility, food safety and synergistic effects with other antioxidants – it is a suitable choice for a wide range of industries including cable, automotive, packaging and polymer pipes.
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