MICROSPHERES CUT COSTS, IMPROVE PROPERTIES OF PLASTICS.

For reducing costs, adding strength, lowering density or solving problems of warpage and shrinkage, microspheres are an excellent filler for plastics. They work well in both thermosets and thermoplastics and can be molded in a variety of processes. Microspheres made from glass are receiving the most attention as resin extenders. There are two different kinds of glass microspheres: solid and hollow. The solid spheres are 10 times heavier than hollow spheres. They provide reinforcement and are tough enough to be extruded or injection molded. Hollow spheres, on the other hand, are used for weight reduction because of their low density. They adversely affect most mechanical properties and cannot be used in high pressure molding processes.