Detectable Materials

There are many application sectors where detecting plastic elements is important: food processing, pharmaceutical sector, security. Plastic particles can contaminate food batches, forcing costly market recalls. Detectability by metal detector or X-rays of foreign elements can prevent this danger.

The detectability and technical characteristics of MDT compounds make them advantageous for use in critical sectors such as food and pharmaceutical for the production of parts such as: elevator cups, food conveyor belts and systems, durable and sanitizable fruit and vegetable crates, cable ties for automated systems, flexible or rigid tubes including for drinking water, thin films for gloves, aprons or covers, rigid modules and antistatic belts for modular systems, tools, housings, accessories and structural components, ovens and pasteurizers thanks to high-temperature grades

Polymers are not detectable by either magnetic field detectors or X-ray systems. By dispersing fillers of the correct density in polymer matrices, very small plastic particles become opaque to X-rays. Similarly, the use of appropriate ferromagnetic fillers can alter the magnetic fields of metal detectors used, for example, in food industry production lines.

MDT materials are detectable with all modern systems capable of detecting materials with low magnetic permeability. The MDT range includes materials simultaneously detectable by both magnetic field systems and X-ray equipment. LATI always recommends real-line testing because detectability depends on instrument sensitivity, type of filler used, size, shape, and orientation of the contaminant.

No, MDT materials are designed not to be permanently magnetizable.

To make a polymer detectable, significant quantities of special fillers must be dispersed, and consequently, the material’s mechanical strength may be compromised. Nevertheless, MDT formulations are designed for the best balance between impact resistance, robustness, colorability, and detectability.

By choosing appropriate polymer matrices, it is possible to have materials that are both detectable and flexible and resilient.

MDT compounds were specifically created to meet the need for greater safety in plastic parts used in food processing operations. Therefore, it is possible to have food-contact compatible MDT materials even in colors typically used in production lines, such as blue or gray. All MDT materials comply with EU Regulation 1935/2004 and, in many cases, also with FDA 21 CFR 177.2600.

The presence of considerable quantities of detectable fillers in MDT compounds limits the availability of these materials in all colors, especially lighter ones. However, colored MDT materials are available in darker saturated shades, such as blue, gray, black, etc. All while maintaining more than adequate mechanical performance.

Upon request, it is possible to formulate MDT compounds that also have excellent antistatic properties, perfect for example for dry food transport. Our technicians will be happy to illustrate all available options.

In MDT materials, the presence of significant quantities of detectable fillers naturally increases melt viscosity and reduces shrinkage during cooling. No significant abrasion or wear of equipment should occur. However, contact our technicians for further details.

LATI’s MDT formulations are primarily designed for injection molding, however, there are grades designed for thin film calendering and extrusion capable of surprising results.