Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120

Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120 is a specialty dry, unexpanded thermoplastic microsphere blowing agent and lightweight filler engineered for advanced plastics, coatings, sealants, and construction materials.

Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120’s unique dual action – physical expansion under heat and ultra  lightweight filling; enables consistent density reduction, better surface finish, and improved mechanical properties in demanding applications. Its expansion profile (Tstart 120 – 132 °C, Tmax 192 – 210 °C) is tailored for Indian processing conditions in plastics, foams, coatings, and putties.

Product Description & Technical Details

Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120 is an expandable microsphere which consists of dry, unexpanded thermoplastic microspheres: each is a copolymer shell encapsulating a volatile gas. When heated, the shell softens and the gas expands, multiplying the microsphere’s volume and creating a foaming effect in the host material. The “DU 120” designation means:

• DU: Dry, unexpanded (expands only during processing)
• 938: Specific shell/gas chemistry for defined expansion and resilience
• 120: Expands to ~120 µm class particle size, ideal for bulk and smoothness

Engineered for:

• Physical, residue free expansion (no chemical by-products)
• Low expanded density (≤7.5 kg/m³)
• Mid to high process temperature compatibility (Tstart 120 – 132 °C, Tmax 192 – 210 °C)
• Stable, free flowing powder for easy handling and dosing

Applications

Plastics & Polymeric Foams

Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120 is widely used in PVC, EVA, and other thermoplastic compounds to achieve lightweight, low density profiles in shoe soles, automotive parts, and molded technical components. Its 120 µm class expansion delivers uniform cell structure, cushioning, and significant weight reduction (up to 30%) without sacrificing mechanical strength. Indian plastics processors use this grade for cost savings, energy efficiency, and improved product performance.

Coatings & Underbody Systems

In automotive underbody coatings, industrial paints, and protective finishes, Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120 acts as a physical blowing agent and lightweight filler. It reduces dry film density, enhances stone chip resistance, and improves surface smoothness. The grade’s expansion window is ideally suited to the baking/curing cycles used in Indian OEM and refinish operations. It also helps lower VOC per litre and minimizes cracking in thick films.

Construction Putties, Joint Fillers & Sealants

Nouryon Expancel 938 DU 120 is a performance additive in construction putties, joint compounds, caulks, and repair mortars. It reduces compound weight, improves sag resistance, and makes application easier especially for vertical and overhead surfaces. In cementitious and gypsum based putties, it helps control shrinkage and cracking while maintaining smooth troweling and workability. For sealant manufacturers, it optimizes yield, flexibility, and cost per volume.

Specialty Foams & Lightweight Composites

This grade is also used in specialty foam systems (e.g., for automotive, footwear, building insulation) and lightweight composite panels, where precise density control and improved compressibility are required. Its thermoplastic, closed cell structure ensures resilience and durability in demanding environments.