APAO

Amorphous polyalphaolefins ( APAO also atactic polyalphaolefins ), are prepared by the polymerization of α -olefins such as 1- butene, having, for example, Ziegler catalysts. These polymers are in contrast to other polyolefins (such as isotactic polypropylene, iPP ) completely amorphous since not crystallizable. They are used for the production of hot melt adhesives ( hot melts ) and pressure sensitive adhesives. For these applications, the main monomer is propylene. The α - olefins used can be obtained, for example, the SHOP process.

APAOs have good adhesive properties on non-polar surfaces and are resistant to high and low temperatures as well as the influence of humidity. Typical molecular weights of APAOs be between 10 and 20000 g / mol. They melt in a temperature range of 100 to 160 ° C. The main application areas of the APAO found as melt adhesive in the packaging industry, in the hygiene industry, for example, as an adhesive for diapers and in the woodworking industry.