Plasticizer screening evaluation

The Green Screen for Safer Chemicals. The Green Screen for Safer Chemicals was successfully applied to evaluate three flame retardants that currently meet performance criteria for use in the external plastic housing of televisions (TVs). The three flame retardants evaluated are ... 

For a two-level factorial design, only two excipients can be selected for each factor. However, for the filler-binder, a combination of brittle and plastic materials is preferred for optimum compaction properties. Therefore, different combinations such as lactose with MCC or mannitol with starch can count as a single factor. Experimental responses can be powder blend flowability, compactibility, blend uniformity, uniformity of dose unit, dissolution, disintegration, and stability under stressed storage conditions. The major advantage of using a DOE to screen prototype formulations is that it allows evaluation of all potential factors simultaneously, systematically, and efficiently. It helps the scientist understand the effect of each formulation factor on each response, as well as potential interaction between factors. It also helps the scientist identify the critical factors based on statistical analysis. DOE results can define a prototype formulation that will meet the predefined requirements for product performance stability and manufacturing. 

To better understand how the Green Screen will function in practice, we used it to evaluate decaBDE and other flame retardant chemicals that are applied to TV casings (the plastic housing on the outside of a TV). TV casings, also called enclosures, were chosen as the end use of decaBDE to evaluate because they represent the largest use of decaBDE. ... 

There are different entry simulation testing equipment to evaluate plastic materials. The utility of polymeric materials for hypersonic atmospheric flight applications is determined by a series of sequential evaluations. Initial screening of candidate materials is carried out in the laboratory, using the high temperature apparatuses. 

Other dispersion evaluation methods include the pressure rise test, tape quality test and blown film test The pressure rise test involves extruding a given amount of plastics compound through a screen pack and monitoring pressure build-up as undispersed carbon black agglomerates and other contaminants plug the screen. For the tape quality test. 

In order to evaluate a material for its chemical stability it is necessary to test it under conditions which as nearly as possible replicate those likely to be encountered in service. One fairly simple test that can be applied to most plastic materials as part of an initial screening process, involves immersing moulded discs or bars for seven days in a variety of liquids at room temperature. This test uses a number of acids, alkalis and salt solutions of varying concentrations and a series of solvents with a range of polarities. At the end of the test the samples are examined for changes in dimensions, weight, colour and other physical properties. 

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