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Plasticizer

Last updated: April 3, 2019

What Does Plasticizer Mean?

A plasticizer is either a non-surface active compound or an active substance added to a suspension, usually a mix, to increase the separation of particles and to prevent subsiding or clumping. It helps to improve a material's plasticity or fluidity. Plasticizers may consist of one or more surfactants, but may also be a gas.

Plasticizers are primarily used in petroleum and heavy-duty diesel oils. They are also used in engine oils, aviation fuels and many gear lubricants, as well as concrete and detergents.

Plasticizers are also known as dispersing agents, dispersants, softeners or super-plasticizers.

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Corrosionpedia Explains Plasticizer

Plasticizers are lubricating additives that help to prevent sludge, varnish and other deposits from forming on surfaces. Dispersing agents are added to lubricating oils for automotive engines to inhibit the buildup of varnish-like deposits on the cylinder walls. They are added to gasoline to prevent the buildup of residues. Plasticizers are essential additives in engine oils to keep engine elements clean. They perform both in aqueous and non-aqueous environments.

Plasticizers are also used in concrete blends to lower water use and maintain the same slump (flow) property. This makes the concrete stronger and more resistant to future water penetration.

For oil drilling, plasticizers aid in breaking apart solids or liquids into fine particles or droplets. Plasticizers with a mixture of surfactants and associated solvents are used after an oil spill to break the oil into tiny droplets.

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Synonyms

Dispersant

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