{"id":990,"date":"2023-05-16T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-05-16T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/?p=990"},"modified":"2026-03-11T02:28:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-11T06:28:53","slug":"polymer-modification","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/blog\/polymer-modification\/","title":{"rendered":"Polymer modification"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"circle_s bg_yellow circle_left\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polymer modification<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group holder_author has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-author\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-author__content\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__byline\">Author<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/author\/robin-conrad\/\" target=\"_self\">Robin Conrad<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date\"><time datetime=\"2023-05-16T06:00:00-04:00\">16. May 2023<\/time><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"copy_big col_short\">Polymer modification imparts desired properties to the resulting new material such as higher thermal stability, impact strength, stiffness, biodegradability, flexibility, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"copy_big col_short\">It is often economically attractive to turn relatively inexpensive standard plastics into new materials with tailored properties through polymer modification. The choice of the appropriate additive depends on the polymer in question, the desired effect and the processing conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-testing-physical-properties.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-991\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Researcher testing the physical properties of newly modified polymers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of polymer modification<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>What you should know: Polymer modifications can be divided into two general categories &#8211; physical modifications in various forms, and chemical modifications, in which the polymer is chemically altered to form a new material.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Physical modifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Physical modification includes processes like entanglement, entrapment as well as radiation-induced modification.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_b bg_purple circle_top_right\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Chemical modifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Chemical modification is a common alternative for synthesizing new polymers. Well-known examples are vulcanization and solvent-free reactive extrusion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Surface modification vs. bulk modification<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Surface properties are critical for the materials to function as they\u2019re intended. Polymers on their own often do not have the required surface properties. Thus, surface modification techniques have become important especially for the plastics industry to obtain the desired properties like abrasion resistance and water repellency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another form of polymer modification is bulk modification using reactive or non-reactive extrusion. Examples of the bulk modifications are shown below.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polymer blends and alloys<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another common way to modify polymers is to blend them with other polymers or modifiers by extrusion. The mixed polymers are often referred to as alloys. This relatively simple method can be used to refine commercially available polymers such as PE, PS or PP into customized materials with higher added value.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crosslinking, branching, chain scissoring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polymers can be modified using other processes such as crosslinking, branching and chain scissoring. Crosslinking with the aid of the electron beam process is normally used for molded parts to turn a thermoplastic into a thermoset. Branching is performed on granules to change their melting properties. Chain scissoring, on the other hand, breaks the bonds between molecules to obtain specific particle sizes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_b bg_cyan circle_top_right\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polymers to modify<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It is impossible to present a complete list of all modifiable polymers in one article since the possibilities are nearly endless. Kuraray\u2019s elastomers can be used as a modifier for various kinds of plastics. In the following paragraphs, let us take a closer look at some plastics commonly modified with Kuraray\u2019s polymers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-pellets.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-992\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Polymer pellets<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polypropylene (PP)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polypropylene (PP) is rigid with good heat resistance. However, the disadvantage of this plastic is its poor impact resistance, especially at low temperatures. Appropriate additives are used to improve the impact resistance and other properties of PP, such as transparency, weather resistance or flowability. For instance, HYBRAR\u2122 7311F and 7125F are added to PP in order to improve flexibility and transparency. These are especially suitable for applications such as medical tubes and medical bags. Also, SEPTON\u2122 2004F can help PP by improving its impact strength at low temperatures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-modified-stadium-seats.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-993\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Modified polypropylene is used in stadium seats to improve impact resistance at temperatures as low as 0\u00b0C.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns col_benefits has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/vxG0T4oEHzw\" title=\"YouTube video player\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Read more:<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.chemedx.org\/blog\/polypropylene-and-cold-snap\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.chemedx.org\/blog\/polypropylene-and-cold-snap\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Demonstrating polypropylene brittleness in the cold (ChemEd X)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polyethylene (PE)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polyethylene (PE) is a commonly used thermoplastic for a variety of applications. Advantages of PE include cost efficiency and cold temperature resistance. However, disadvantages such as heat resistance, stress cracking, poor bonding and poor weatherability often limit its uses. Polymer modification with SEPTON\u2122 4000-series and 8000-series often remedies these weaknesses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-polyethylene-food-packaging.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-994\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Polyethylene food packaging<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_s bg_orange circle_left\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polystyrene (PS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polystyrene (PS) is a transparent plastic characterized by high rigidity, resistance to breakage and a high surface quality. A well-known product of foamed type polystyrene is STYROFOAM\u2122.* Adverse properties of PS can be improved by polymer modification. SEPTON\u2122 2104 and 8006 can be used with PS to improve impact resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>*STYROFOAM\u2122 is a registered trademark of Dow Chemical Company<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-kitchen.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-995\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Solid PS and PS foam are used in many industries. For example, the housings for consumer electronics use PS.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the third most important polymer for plastics after PE and PP. Without the use of polymer modification, PVC has limited physical properties. Modifications range from physical blending to chemical reactions that alter the chain structure of PVC.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polycarbonate (PC)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polycarbonate (PC) is a fairly tough material. However, thicker parts of the plastic can become brittle due to lower notch impact strength. This problem can be countered by adding a suitable polymer that significantly increases the notch impact strength. SEPTON\u2122 can help improve PC\u2019s impact strength while maintaining processability.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Who does not know the popular LEGO\u00ae bricks? They are a well-known application of the plastic \u201cacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)\u201d. ABS is characterized by a number of positive properties including excellent impact resistance, high heat resistance and high surface gloss. Furthermore, this plastic is easy to process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Disadvantages are its medium to weak flexural strength and poor weathering resistance. In order to improve the weaker mechanical and physical properties of ABS plastic, it must be modified. SEPTON\u2122 and HYBRAR\u2122 can be used as an ABS modifier adding impact strength, flexibility, elongation and more. Additionally, HYBRAR\u2122 5127 and 7125F can improve damping properties at various temperatures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-lego-brick-abs.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-996\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">LEGO\u00ae bricks are made from ABS<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_s bg_green circle_top_right\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polylactide (PLA)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable and bio-based material that can be used as a substitute for low-cost petroleum-based polymers. PLA is easy to process and it exhibits good thermoplasticity. Its shortcomings include brittleness and low toughness which limits the application of PLA due to plastic deformation. To improve the performance of PLA, SEPTON\u2122 BIO-series is often used to make it softer and more durable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polyphenylene Ether (PPE)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polyphenylene ether (PPE) is a high-temperature-resistant, high-performance thermoplastic. PPE blends are used for molded parts in multiple markets including electronics, household, automotive, and medical technology. The properties of PPE can be modified over a wide range by blending with modifiers like SEPTON\u2122 for added impact resistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer (TPE-E aka. COPE aka. TPC)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You may know thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E) by another name? TPE-E is also known as COPE or TPC. The plastic has very good resistance to heat aging and chemicals and its low-temperature impact strength is excellent. However, TPE-E only has a limited hardness. This disadvantage can be overcome by modification with appropriate additives.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-modified-tpe-cables.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-998\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Modified TPE-E is used in cables<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polyamides (PA)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polyamides (PA) best-known application is nylon. Depending on the requirements, the material properties of polyamides can be optimized by modifying the material to improve toughness and weather resistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know that polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) has properties and composition similar to PET? Important advantages of PBT are its resistance to solvents combined with limited shrinkage during forming. Its stiffness, strength and glass transition temperature are lower than those of PET and its resistance to hydrocarbons and acids are unsatisfactory. Polymer modification can help to reduce these limitations. For instance, SEPTON\u2122 can improve the impact resistance of PBT at various temperatures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-modified-pbt-keycaps.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-999\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A typical example of modified PBT are keycaps in premium keyboards. Such keycaps are matte and more durable than keycaps made from ABS.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) containspositive properties like heat resistance and aging. The elastic, colorless plastic is commonly used in shoe soles and floor coverings. Furthermore, solar cells in photovoltaics use EVA Properties of EVA such as thermal stability, transmittance or volume resistance can be increased with the aid of polymer modifications.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) should be mentioned. This thermoplastic is often used with plastic bottles. Modifications are used with PET to make it easier to process, to prevent microbial contamination, and to improve clarity, strength, transparency and durability. Surface modification area used with PET.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_s bg_orange circle_left\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of polymer modification<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Polymer modification is intended to impart various desired properties to the modified material. Polymer modification can improve important properties of plastics including compatibilization, toughness, heat resistance, weathering resistance and impact resistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compatibilization<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>By mixing polymers, new materials can be developed that combine the properties of several polymers. However, due to different chemical structures, most polymers cannot be mixed with each other. A multiphase morphology of the blends is the result. In such cases, compatibilizers help to improve the morphology of plastic compounds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1480\" height=\"832\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-compatibilization-multiphase-blends.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1003\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-compatibilization-multiphase-blends.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-compatibilization-multiphase-blends-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1480px) 100vw, 1480px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Compatibilization of multiphase polymer blends<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Toughness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Improving toughness is about strengthening the impact resistance of previously brittle materials. In the development of polymers from several components, the toughness of elastomers dispersed in relatively brittle plastics can have a positive impact.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Heat resistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Heat resistant polymers play a key role in many fields such as electronics, automotive, aerospace, and more. In processes such as insert molding where composites are made from resins and metal parts, the resins must have good heat shock resistance to prevent fatigue fractures. Flame retardant modification, can produce materials with application-optimized properties such as high heat resistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-module-rexus-rocket.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1001\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The payload module of the REXUS rocket is made from heat resistant PEEK which has been carbon fiber reinforced at the Technical University in Munich. Image credit: A. Heddergott \/ TUM<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weather resistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most polymers undergo irreversible physical and chemical changes outdoors due to UV radiation, air, heat and moisture. The properties altered by weathering can include discoloration or color change, loss of gloss, surface erosion and other consequences. Modification of polymers can overcome these weaknesses or prevent the change. Examples are the use of UV-absorbing agents or antioxidants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact resistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Plastics are often used in very demanding applications. These applications include damping or vibration damping. By combining different polymer types, plastics can meet the very specific requirements. The use of appropriate modifiers such as compatibilizers makes a decisive contribution to this.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/kuraray-elastomer-polymer-modification-impact-resistance.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1004\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Testing the impact resistance of a polymer (Charpy impact test)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flowability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Flowabilty is the capacity to move by flow that characterizes fluids and loose particulate solids, which especially matters when you are considering injection molding. With low flowability, the flow distance of materials on the mold will be shorter which affects productivity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"circle_s bg_green circle_left\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our materials for polymer modification<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEPTON\u2122<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The high-performance TPE <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/products\/septon\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"54\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEPTON\u2122<\/a><\/strong> is used in a number of TPE compounds and can be processed in a wide variety of forms. Specific grades are certified and used in consumer goods, medical, mobility and oil modification applications. Hydrogenation ensures excellent heat and weather resistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/10\/tpe-kuraray-septon-hsbc-clear-pellets.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-648\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">SEPTON\u2122<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEPTON\u2122 BIO-series<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bio-based TPE <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/products\/septon-bio-series\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"22\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEPTON\u2122 BIO-series<\/a><\/strong> is a unique hydrogenated styrene farnesene block copolymer (HSFC). Using SEPTON\u2122 BIO-series enables compounders to produce compounds with high bio-based content. Common applications include adhesives, sealants, compounds, coatings, and polymer modification.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/10\/tpe-septon-bio-series-sugar-cane-pellets.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-649\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">SEPTON\u2122 BIO-series<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HYBRAR\u2122<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/products\/hybrar\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"62\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HYBRAR\u2122<\/a><\/strong> is a vinyl-rich, high-performance TPE with high vibration damping properties. Hydrogenated grades of HYBRAR\u2122 have excellent weatherability and compatibility with polypropylene resulting in excellent transparency and clarity when blended. Comon applications include medican films and tubing as well as molded components which are used in damping applications. The non-hydrogenated grades are used in vibration damping sealants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"416\" src=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/10\/hybrar-block-copolymer-polystyrene-pellets.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-631\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">HYBRAR\u2122<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col_short is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\" id=\"medical_tpes\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contact for business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have any questions? We will be happy to help you! Please contact us to learn more about Kuraray materials for polymer modification.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"contact\" class=\"wp-block-group holder_contact has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"heading_contact\">Contact<\/p>\n\n\n\n<form class=\"contact_form\" method=\"post\" action=\"https:\/\/go.kuraray.com\/l\/448142\/2021-03-03\/pmt2nw\">\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>Company *<\/label> \n<input type=\"text\" class=\"form-control\" name=\"company\" placeholder=\"\" required=\"required\">\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>Country *<\/label> \n<select class=\"form-control\" name=\"country\" required=\"required\">\n<option value=\"\">Select your country&#8230;<\/option>\n<option value=\"Afghanistan\">Afghanistan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Aland Islands\">Aland Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Albania\">Albania<\/option>\n<option value=\"Algeria\">Algeria<\/option>\n<option value=\"American Samoa\">American Samoa<\/option>\n<option value=\"Andorra\">Andorra<\/option>\n<option value=\"Angola\">Angola<\/option>\n<option value=\"Anguilla\">Anguilla<\/option>\n<option value=\"Antigua and Barbuda\">Antigua and Barbuda<\/option>\n<option value=\"Argentina\">Argentina<\/option>\n<option value=\"Armenia\">Armenia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Aruba\">Aruba<\/option>\n<option value=\"Australia\">Australia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Austria\">Austria<\/option>\n<option value=\"Azerbaijan\">Azerbaijan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bahamas\">Bahamas<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bahrain\">Bahrain<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bangladesh\">Bangladesh<\/option>\n<option value=\"Barbados\">Barbados<\/option>\n<option value=\"Belarus\">Belarus<\/option>\n<option value=\"Belgium\">Belgium<\/option>\n<option value=\"Belize\">Belize<\/option>\n<option value=\"Benin\">Benin<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bermuda\">Bermuda<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bhutan\">Bhutan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bolivia\">Bolivia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bonaire\">Bonaire<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bosnia and Herzegovina\">Bosnia and Herzegovina<\/option>\n<option value=\"Botswana\">Botswana<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bouvet Island\">Bouvet Island<\/option>\n<option value=\"Brazil\">Brazil<\/option>\n<option value=\"British Indian Ocean Territory\">British Indian Ocean Territory<\/option>\n<option value=\"Brunei Darussalam\">Brunei Darussalam<\/option>\n<option value=\"Bulgaria\">Bulgaria<\/option>\n<option value=\"Burkina Faso\">Burkina Faso<\/option>\n<option value=\"Burundi\">Burundi<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cambodia\">Cambodia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cameroon\">Cameroon<\/option>\n<option value=\"Canada\">Canada<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cape Verde\">Cape Verde<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cayman Islands\">Cayman Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Central African Republic\">Central African Republic<\/option>\n<option value=\"Chad\">Chad<\/option>\n<option value=\"Chile\">Chile<\/option>\n<option value=\"China\">China<\/option>\n<option value=\"Christmas Island\">Christmas Island<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cocos (Keeling) Islands\">Cocos (Keeling) Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Colombia\">Colombia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Comoros\">Comoros<\/option>\n<option value=\"Congo\">Congo<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cook Islands\">Cook Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Costa Rica\">Costa Rica<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cote d'Ivoire\">Cote d&#8217;Ivoire<\/option>\n<option value=\"Croatia\">Croatia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cuba\">Cuba<\/option>\n<option value=\"Curacao\">Curacao<\/option>\n<option value=\"Cyprus\">Cyprus<\/option>\n<option value=\"Czech Republic\">Czech Republic<\/option>\n<option value=\"Democratic Republic of the Congo\">Democratic Republic of the Congo<\/option>\n<option value=\"Denmark\">Denmark<\/option>\n<option value=\"Djibouti\">Djibouti<\/option>\n<option value=\"Dominica\">Dominica<\/option>\n<option value=\"Dominican Republic\">Dominican Republic<\/option>\n<option value=\"Ecuador\">Ecuador<\/option>\n<option value=\"Egypt\">Egypt<\/option>\n<option value=\"El Salvador\">El Salvador<\/option>\n<option value=\"Equatorial Guinea\">Equatorial Guinea<\/option>\n<option value=\"Eritrea\">Eritrea<\/option>\n<option value=\"Estonia\">Estonia <\/option>\n<option value=\"Eswatini\">Eswatini<\/option>\n<option value=\"Ethiopia\">Ethiopia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Falkland Islands (Malvinas)\">Falkland Islands (Malvinas)<\/option>\n<option value=\"Faroe Islands\">Faroe Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Fiji\">Fiji<\/option>\n<option value=\"Finland\">Finland<\/option>\n<option value=\"France\">France<\/option>\n<option value=\"French Guiana\">French Guiana<\/option>\n<option value=\"French Polynesia\">French Polynesia<\/option>\n<option value=\"French Southern Territories\">French Southern Territories<\/option>\n<option value=\"Gabon\">Gabon<\/option>\n<option value=\"Gambia\">Gambia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Georgia\">Georgia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Germany\">Germany<\/option>\n<option value=\"Ghana\">Ghana<\/option>\n<option value=\"Gibraltar\">Gibraltar<\/option>\n<option value=\"Greece\">Greece<\/option>\n<option value=\"Greenland\">Greenland<\/option>\n<option value=\"Grenada\">Grenada<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guadeloupe\">Guadeloupe<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guam\">Guam<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guatemala\">Guatemala<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guernsey\">Guernsey<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guinea\">Guinea<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guinea-Bissau\">Guinea-Bissau<\/option>\n<option value=\"Guyana\">Guyana<\/option>\n<option value=\"Haiti\">Haiti<\/option>\n<option value=\"Heard Island and McDonald Islands\">Heard Island and McDonald Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Holy See (Vatican City State)\">Holy See (Vatican City State)<\/option>\n<option value=\"Honduras\">Honduras<\/option>\n<option value=\"Hong Kong\">Hong Kong<\/option>\n<option value=\"Hungary\">Hungary<\/option>\n<option value=\"Iceland\">Iceland<\/option>\n<option value=\"India\">India<\/option>\n<option value=\"Indonesia\">Indonesia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Iran\">Iran<\/option>\n<option value=\"Iraq\">Iraq<\/option>\n<option value=\"Ireland\">Ireland<\/option>\n<option value=\"Isle of Man\">Isle of Man<\/option>\n<option value=\"Israel\">Israel<\/option>\n<option value=\"Italy\">Italy<\/option>\n<option value=\"Jamaica\">Jamaica<\/option>\n<option value=\"Japan\">Japan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Jersey\">Jersey<\/option>\n<option value=\"Jordan\">Jordan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kazakhstan\">Kazakhstan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kenya\">Kenya<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kiribati\">Kiribati<\/option>\n<option value=\"Korea, Democratic People's Republic of\">Korea, Democratic People&#8217;s Republic of<\/option>\n<option value=\"Korea, Republic of\">Korea(Republic of Korea)<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kosovo\">Kosovo<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kuwait\">Kuwait<\/option>\n<option value=\"Kyrgyzstan\">Kyrgyzstan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Lao People's Democratic Republic\">Lao People&#8217;s Democratic Republic<\/option>\n<option value=\"Latvia\">Latvia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Lebanon\">Lebanon<\/option>\n<option value=\"Lesotho\">Lesotho<\/option>\n<option value=\"Liberia\">Liberia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Libya\">Libya<\/option>\n<option value=\"Liechtenstein\">Liechtenstein<\/option>\n<option value=\"Lithuania\">Lithuania<\/option>\n<option value=\"Luxembourg\">Luxembourg<\/option>\n<option value=\"Macau\">Macau<\/option>\n<option value=\"Macedonia\">Macedonia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Madagascar\">Madagascar<\/option>\n<option value=\"Malawi\">Malawi<\/option>\n<option value=\"Malaysia\">Malaysia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Maldives\">Maldives<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mali\">Mali<\/option>\n<option value=\"Malta\">Malta<\/option>\n<option value=\"Marshall Islands\">Marshall Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Martinique\">Martinique<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mauritania\">Mauritania<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mauritius\">Mauritius<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mayotte\">Mayotte<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mexico\">Mexico<\/option>\n<option value=\"Micronesia\">Micronesia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Moldova\">Moldova<\/option>\n<option value=\"Monaco\">Monaco<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mongolia\">Mongolia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Montenegro\">Montenegro<\/option>\n<option value=\"Montserrat\">Montserrat<\/option>\n<option value=\"Morocco\">Morocco<\/option>\n<option value=\"Mozambique\">Mozambique<\/option>\n<option value=\"Myanmar\">Myanmar<\/option>\n<option value=\"Namibia\">Namibia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Nauru\">Nauru<\/option>\n<option value=\"Nepal\">Nepal<\/option>\n<option value=\"Netherlands\">Netherlands<\/option>\n<option value=\"New Caledonia\">New Caledonia<\/option>\n<option value=\"New Zealand\">New Zealand<\/option>\n<option value=\"Nicaragua\">Nicaragua<\/option>\n<option value=\"Niger\">Niger<\/option>\n<option value=\"Nigeria\">Nigeria<\/option>\n<option value=\"Niue\">Niue<\/option>\n<option value=\"Norfolk Island\">Norfolk Island<\/option>\n<option value=\"Northern Mariana Islands\">Northern Mariana Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Norway\">Norway<\/option>\n<option value=\"Oman\">Oman<\/option>\n<option value=\"Pakistan\">Pakistan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Palau\">Palau<\/option>\n<option value=\"Palestinian Territory\">Palestinian Territory<\/option>\n<option value=\"Panama\">Panama<\/option>\n<option value=\"Papua New Guinea\">Papua New Guinea<\/option>\n<option value=\"Paraguay\">Paraguay<\/option>\n<option value=\"Peru\">Peru<\/option>\n<option value=\"Philippines\">Philippines<\/option>\n<option value=\"Pitcairn\">Pitcairn<\/option>\n<option value=\"Poland\">Poland<\/option>\n<option value=\"Portugal\">Portugal<\/option>\n<option value=\"Puerto Rico\">Puerto Rico<\/option>\n<option value=\"Qatar\">Qatar<\/option>\n<option value=\"Reunion\">Reunion<\/option>\n<option value=\"Romania\">Romania<\/option>\n<option value=\"Russian Federation\">Russian Federation<\/option>\n<option value=\"Rwanda\">Rwanda<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Barthelemy\">Saint Barthelemy<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Helena\">Saint Helena<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Kitts and Nevis\">Saint Kitts and Nevis<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Lucia\">Saint Lucia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Martin (French part)\">Saint Martin (French part)<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Pierre and Miquelon\">Saint Pierre and Miquelon<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saint Vincent and the Grenadines\">Saint Vincent and the Grenadines<\/option>\n<option value=\"Samoa\">Samoa<\/option>\n<option value=\"San Marino\">San Marino<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sao Tome and Principe\">Sao Tome and Principe<\/option>\n<option value=\"Saudi Arabia\">Saudi Arabia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Senegal\">Senegal<\/option>\n<option value=\"Serbia\">Serbia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Seychelles\">Seychelles<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sierra Leone\">Sierra Leone<\/option>\n<option value=\"Singapore\">Singapore<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sint Maarten (Dutch part)\">Sint Maarten (Dutch part)<\/option>\n<option value=\"Slovakia\">Slovakia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Slovenia\">Slovenia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Solomon Islands\">Solomon Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Somalia\">Somalia<\/option>\n<option value=\"South Africa\">South Africa<\/option>\n<option value=\"South Georgia and the South Sandwich Isl\">South Georgia and the South Sandwich Isl<\/option>\n<option value=\"South Sudan\">South Sudan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Spain\">Spain<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sri Lanka\">Sri Lanka<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sudan\">Sudan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Suriname\">Suriname<\/option>\n<option value=\"Svalbard and Jan Mayen\">Svalbard and Jan Mayen<\/option>\n<option value=\"Sweden\">Sweden<\/option>\n<option value=\"Switzerland\">Switzerland<\/option>\n<option value=\"Syrian Arab Republic\">Syrian Arab Republic<\/option>\n<option value=\"Taiwan\">Taiwan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tajikistan\">Tajikistan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tanzania\">Tanzania<\/option>\n<option value=\"Thailand\">Thailand<\/option>\n<option value=\"Timor-Leste\">Timor-Leste<\/option>\n<option value=\"Togo\">Togo<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tokelau\">Tokelau<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tonga\">Tonga<\/option>\n<option value=\"Trinidad and Tobago\">Trinidad and Tobago<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tunisia\">Tunisia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Turkey\">Turkey<\/option>\n<option value=\"Turkmenistan\">Turkmenistan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Turks and Caicos Islands\">Turks and Caicos Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Tuvalu\">Tuvalu<\/option>\n<option value=\"Uganda\">Uganda<\/option>\n<option value=\"Ukraine\">Ukraine<\/option>\n<option value=\"United Arab Emirates\">United Arab Emirates<\/option>\n<option value=\"United Kingdom\">United Kingdom<\/option>\n<option value=\"United States\">United States<\/option>\n<option value=\"United States Minor Outlying Islands\">United States Minor Outlying Islands<\/option>\n<option value=\"Uruguay\">Uruguay<\/option>\n<option value=\"Uzbekistan\">Uzbekistan<\/option>\n<option value=\"Vanuatu\">Vanuatu<\/option>\n<option value=\"Venezuela\">Venezuela<\/option>\n<option value=\"Viet Nam\">Viet Nam<\/option>\n<option value=\"Virgin Islands, British\">Virgin Islands, British<\/option>\n<option value=\"Virgin Islands, U.S.\">Virgin Islands, U.S.<\/option>\n<option value=\"Wallis and Futuna\">Wallis and Futuna<\/option>\n<option value=\"Western Sahara\">Western Sahara<\/option>\n<option value=\"Yemen\">Yemen<\/option>\n<option value=\"Zambia\">Zambia<\/option>\n<option value=\"Zimbabwe\">Zimbabwe<\/option>\n<\/select>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>First Name *<\/label>\n<input type=\"text\" class=\"form-control\" name=\"first_name\" placeholder=\"\" required=\"required\">\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>Last Name *<\/label>\n<input type=\"text\" class=\"form-control\" name=\"last_name\" placeholder=\"\" required=\"required\">\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>E-Mail *<\/label>\n<input type=\"email\" class=\"form-control\" name=\"email\" placeholder=\"\" required=\"required\">\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label for=\"phone\">Telephone number<\/label>\n<input type=\"tel\" class=\"form-control\" id=\"phone\" name=\"phone\"> \n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-group\">\n<label>Message *<\/label> \n<textarea class=\"form-control\" name=\"txt_Isp_Elas_Inquiry\" placeholder=\"\" required=\"required\"><\/textarea>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"position:absolute; left:-9999px; top:-9999px\">\n<label for=\"pardot_extra_field\">Comments<\/label>\n<input type=\"text\" id=\"pardot_extra_field\" name=\"pardot_extra_field\">\n<\/div>\n  \n<div class=\"form-accepts\">\nPlease refer to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kuraray.com\/customer-privacy-notice\/\" target=\"blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Customer Privacy Notice<\/a> for the Kuraray Group&#8217;s handling of personal information related to sales and marketing activities.<br>\nIf you agree to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kuraray.com\/customer-privacy-notice\/\" target=\"blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Customer Privacy Notice<\/a>, please check the box and submit your inquiry.<br>\nPlease refer to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kuraray.com\/privacy\/\" target=\"blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Privacy Policy<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/cookie-policy\/\" target=\"blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cookie Policy<\/a> for the handling of other personal information.\n<br>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"form-accepts\">\n<label class=\"switch\" for=\"checkbox\">\n    <input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"checkbox\" name=\"privacynotice\" value=\"true\" required=\"required\" oninvalid=\"this.setCustomValidity('Please fill out this field.')\" onchange=\"this.setCustomValidity('')\">\n    <div class=\"slider round\"><\/div>\n  <\/label>\n <div class=\"switchlabel\">I agree to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kuraray.com\/customer-privacy-notice\/\" target=\"blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Customer Privacy Notice<\/a>. *<\/div>\n<\/div>\n  \n<div class=\"form-submit\">\n<div class=\"required footnote\">* Required<\/div>\n<input type=\"submit\" class=\"Submitbutton\" name=\"submit\" value=\"Submit\">\n<\/div>\n<\/form>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Polymer modification gives plastics new or improved properties. A wide variety of polymer modifications  enable a broad range of applications.<br class=\"break-more-link\"><br class=\"break-more-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/blog\/polymer-modification\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":991,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"single-blog.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-990","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/990","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=990"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/990\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1540,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/990\/revisions\/1540"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/991"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=990"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=990"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.elastomer.kuraray.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=990"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}