During plastic processing, exposure to heat, shear, and oxygen can lead to polymer degradation—resulting in discoloration, loss of mechanical strength, or even complete material failure. To maintain product quality and extend the life of polymers, thermal stabilizers are essential.

In addition to primary stabilizers, certain additives and co-stabilizers play critical roles in improving thermal resistance. Among these, stearic acid, cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate, and trimethylolpropane (TMP) are widely recognized for their specialized functions in enhancing stability under heat.

Additional high-performance additives include:

●Stearoyl Benzoyl Methane (SBM): A β-diketone-based co-stabilizer, SBM enhances long-term color stability and complements calcium-zinc systems by efficiently scavenging hydrogen chloride and preventing polyene formation in PVC and other halogenated polymers.

● Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)isocyanurate (THEIC): Known for its high thermal stability and ability to form stable crosslinks, THEIC is used in stabilizer formulations to improve heat resistance, especially in wire & cable coatings and engineering thermoplastics.

These compounds are often blended to create synergistic effects, providing both short-term processing protection and long-term thermal stability.

Key Additives That Support Thermal Stabilization

Stearic Acid: Enhancing Processability and Metal Ion Control

Stearic acid is a versatile fatty acid used as both a lubricant and co-stabilizer in plastic formulations. It helps reduce friction and shear during processing, which minimizes heat build-up and polymer degradation. Additionally, stearic acid can interact with metal-based stabilizers to moderate metal ion activity, promoting longer-lasting thermal protection.

Cobalt(II) Chloride Hexahydrate: Functional Additive for Reactive Systems

While not a traditional stabilizer, cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate is used in specialized plastic applications for its colorimetric sensitivity to humidity and oxidation. In certain multilayer films or performance polymers, it contributes to the formulation by providing a responsive behavior under environmental stress—supporting the action of other stabilizers.

Trimethylolpropane (TMP): Building Thermal Durability

TMP is a trifunctional alcohol often used as a crosslinking agent or intermediate in polymer chemistry. In thermal stabilization systems, TMP enhances the molecular structure of plastics, leading to improved heat resistance and dimensional stability. Its use is especially relevant in high-performance materials or products that undergo extended thermal exposure.

How Thermal Stabilizers Protect Plastics

Thermal stabilizers function by interrupting degradation pathways that occur during processing. These include:

● Neutralizing acidic byproducts

● Scavenging free radicals

● Preventing chain scission or molecular weight loss

● Delaying oxidation and discoloration

Depending on the polymer type and application, stabilizers are carefully selected to match processing conditions and performance expectations.

Types of Thermal Stabilizers in the Market

Beyond supporting additives like stearic acid and TMP, a wide range of thermal stabilizers are used across plastic industries, including:

● Metal soaps (calcium-zinc, barium-zinc)

● Organotin compounds

● Epoxidized vegetable oils

● Organic stabilizers and antioxidants

These can be used individually or in synergistic systems depending on the target properties.

TJCY’s Approach to Advanced Stabilization

At TJCY, we focus on supplying functional ingredients that enhance thermal resistance in polymer processing. Whether you're optimizing a plastic formulation or seeking alternatives to traditional stabilizers, our product range—including stearic acid, cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate, and TMP—offers flexible, high-purity options to meet your needs.

Our stabilizer-related products are used in:

● Wire and cable insulation

● Technical films and sheets

● Flexible plastic materials

● Heat-resistant molded parts

Explore our Thermal Stabilizers or reach out to learn how our additives can be integrated into your process.

Understanding how thermal stabilizers work—and how co-stabilizers like stearic acid, cobalt chloride hexahydrate, and TMP enhance their performance—is key to producing durable, heat-resistant plastic products. As polymer applications evolve, so do the demands on thermal stability.

TJCY is here to support your formulations with reliable chemical solutions tailored to your goals.

Contact us today to discuss the right thermal stabilizers and additives for your plastic processing needs.