Detectable Polymers

When formulating detectable compounds, it is vital to consider loading levels, particle size, optical properties, and surface appearance. Other important factors include processing equipment requirements; however, MagniF supports the compounding process as it is easy to disperse, even at high loading levels. Polymer detection across different systems is another area where MagniF offers clear advantages.

Polymer detection made easy

Cable ties containing 10% MagniF 10F are easily detectable by high‑frequency coil detectors. A spherical particle of the compound weighing 2 mg generates a signal response comparable to that of 0.1 mg Fe steel, with a characteristic signal delay. This delay is typical of MagniF, similar to that of stainless steel, and makes it particularly suitable for detecting plastic contamination in wet or frozen food polymer packaging.

When dispersed in a polymer matrix, MagniF magnetite powders can be detected once a certain mineral concentration passes through the detector. In addition to the MagniF loading level, the size, shape, orientation, and position of the polymer specimen also influence the detector response signal.

As a functional filler in polymers, MagniF offers several key benefits for detectable compounds:

• High loading levels can be achieved
• Enables low wall thickness (important for high‑frequency coil detection)
• Good rheology and mould‑filling behaviour
• Short cycle times in injection moulding

MagniF 10 and MagniF 10F allow higher loading levels and provide better mechanical properties and surface finish than MagniF 50 or MagniF 50F. The higher tinting strength of the black MagniF 10 and MagniF 10F delivers greater contrast than the coarser MagniF 50 and MagniF 50F, which is beneficial for X‑ray detection but requires the addition of more TiO₂ when a bright colour is needed.

Extra benefits of MagniF

MagniF offers additional benefits that are of significant interest across many applications. Due to its ferrimagnetic properties, MagniF is used as a metal tracer in plastic applications. MagniF 10F and MagniF 50F are suitable for plastics intended to come into contact with foodstuffs. To fulfil different regulatory requirements, the specifications include maximum limits for relevant trace elements.

MagniF is a high-quality dry powder produced from the natural iron oxide (magnetite) mined at LKAB group owned mines in Northern Sweden. This ownership ensures year‑round supply and guarantees consistent, high product quality with every delivery.

Contact LKAB Minerals for a sample, quotation, or datasheet on the different MagniF grades.