Applied Rheology and Polymer Processing

School of Engineering | University of Bradford

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Polymer Processing

We have an ongoing programme of research in Mixing in Single Screw Extrusion with Solid and Liquid Masterbatch.

Current interest lies in the use of the Cavity Transfer Mixer (CTM) to mix liquid masterbatch and liquid CO₂ which are injected to polymer melts and other viscous masses. We are doing this research in collaboration with RAPRA Technology.

In Polymer Processing our interest is in the study of Cast and Blown Film Processes (with orientation). In particular, we have been studying the Double Bubble Process for manufacturing Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene Films using an industrial pilot line in collaboration with Battenfeld Gloenco. We are currently modelling the two important stages of the process (IR Heating and Bubble Formation). Process data has been supplied by UCB Films to further validate the models. We have started recently an important programme of research on developing Novel Dies for the production of low density Plastic Foams using liquid carbon dioxide injected in the melt.