Nynas has launched a new white oil called NYFLEX^® 2120B and a range of other naphthenic specialty oils for sealant formulators. The company reports that the portfolio offers cost-effective replacements for silicone fluids while reducing problems related to microbial growth and maintaining the right balance between viscosity, color stability, and volatility.

“Our range of NYFLEX naphthenic oils can be used to partially or fully replace silicone fluids, resulting in a product with optimal performance and reduced manufacturing costs,” said Gaia Franzolin, marketing director.

Pressure on the global supply of silicone is driving up prices. According to Nynas, producers of silicone-based products are eager to find compatible and cost-effective alternatives.

“This product range offers formulation flexibility and displays the right balance between important performance criteria such as polymer compatibility, loss of mass and colour stability,” said Emma Öberg, development engineer. “The optimised compatibility of NYFLEX^® 2120B and NYFLEX 2005 is of paramount importance to avoid bleeding on sealant surfaces, while NYFLEX 201B and NYFLEX 3011 provide formulators with a low shrinkage option.”

The NYFLEX range for sealants reportedly has excellent color stability due to the company’s hydrotreating technology, as well as the materials’ suitable molecular weight and low aromatic content. These naphthenic oils can also reduce microbial growth in silicone sealant joints, which can cause permanent staining and etching, as well as shortening of the joints’ lifespan.

“Independent specialist labs have examined our sealant samples formulated with NYFLEX^® 2120B and reported no microbial growth, even under the microscope,” Öberg said. “This stands in contrast to sealant samples formulated with paraffinic oils, which developed undesirable active mould growth.”

Visit www.nynas.com for additional information.