News
Palmer Holland and Baerlocher SPA Announce Distribution Partnership Expansion into Canadian Market
Cleveland, OH—[August 2024] Palmer Holland and Baerlocher USA announced they are expanding their partnership to distribute Baerlocher’s line of Specialty Polymer Additives (SPA) to the Canadian market.
The expansion marks a significant milestone in the long-standing relationship between Palmer Holland and Baerlocher USA. However, this new development not only allows for promoting Baerlocher SPA's products in Canada but also introduces a broader range of offerings in United States and Canada, including access to Baerlocher's additive blend portfolio.
“This expansion is a strategic move that underscores our commitment to growth and innovation," said Palmer Holland’s Sam Sullivan, Market Manager- Plastics. "Our relationship with Baerlocher SPA has always been strong, and by broadening our product offerings and expanding into new territories, we are solidifying our position as a leader in specialty additives. Over the past year, we successfully introduced Baerlocher PVC additives into the US market, and now, with the addition of additive blends in the U.S. and Canada, we are excited for continued success and collaboration."
“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership through both territory and product line growth, reinforcing our shared commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction,” said Baerlocher’s Rachel Majewski, Director of Sales, Special Additives. “This expansion not only broadens our market reach but also deepens our relationship. As we continue to look for ways to strengthen and grow together, our focus on innovation, sustainability, customer support, and technical expertise remains at the core of our partnership’s success.”
Both companies are committed to providing exceptional service and innovative solutions to their customers. With this partnership, they aim to bring even greater value to their clients and continue to strengthen their position in the market.
For more information about Baerlocher, visit https://www.baerlocherusa.com/
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About Baerlocher
The Baerlocher group of companies is one of the world's leading additive suppliers, drawing on experience from more than 200 years of company history. We are known as a leading producer of additives developed for the processing of PVC and Specialty Additive products. The company provides solutions for window profiles, pipes, cables, floorings, foils, films and many other applications with a focus on offering a wide range of innovative additives that meet the highest requirements in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and finished product quality. For more information about Baerlocher, please visit our website at https://www.baerlocherusa.com/
About Palmer Holland
Established in 1925 as Palmer-Schuster Company, Palmer Holland is a North American specialty chemical and ingredient distributor of raw materials headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, with 50+ account managers and ingredient consultants stationed across the United States and Canada. We are a private, employee-owned company, allowing us greater marketplace flexibility and a dedicated platform for long-term success. This flexibility enables us to provide our customers and principals with the most effective and efficient solutions. Our partners are rooted in Agriculture, CASE (coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomers), Health & Nutrition, Lubricants, and Plastics. For more information about Palmer Holland, please visit our website at www.palmerholland.com
Baerlocher and First Quality Chemicals Announce
Strategic Partnership for Mexican Market
Mexico City, Mar. 22, 2024 – Baerlocher, a global leader in the manufacture and supply of additives for the plastics industry, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with First Quality Chemicals, a renowned provider of specialty chemicals. This partnership will specifically focus on distributing Baerlocher’s PVC additives through First Quality Chemicals in the Mexican market.
This partnership brings together Baerlocher's expertise in innovative additive solutions with First Quality Chemicals' extensive market reach and customer-centric approach. Through this collaboration, both companies aim to enhance their offerings, providing customers in Mexico with a comprehensive range of high-quality products and exceptional service.
Baerlocher USA is excited to partner with First Quality Chemicals for distribution of PVC additives to the Mexican market.” Said Josh Wierzba, SBU Director, PVC Additives. “First Quality Chemicals is the perfect match to expand Baerlocher’s footprint in Mexico as we share similar interest in creating value for our customers through innovative solutions, superior service, and high-quality products.
First Quality Chemicals shares Baerlocher's dedication to innovation and sustainability. By combining their resources and capabilities, the two companies will accelerate the development of cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the plastics industry in Mexico while promoting environmental stewardship.
"We are delighted to partner with Baerlocher to bring their high-quality products to our customers in Mexico," said Sergio Chiñas, CEO at First Quality Chemicals. "Together, we will leverage our complementary strengths to deliver unmatched value and service to the Mexican market."
This partnership marks an important milestone for both Baerlocher and First Quality Chemicals as they continue to expand their global footprint and solidify their positions as leaders in the chemical industry.
For more information about Baerlocher and its products, visit https://www.baerlocherusa.com/ For more information about First Quality Chemicals and its products, visit https://www.firstqualitychemicals.com
ORLANDO, Fla. – May 7, 2024 – Baerlocher USA, part of the Baerlocher Group, a leading global supplier of plastics additives, announced here at NPE2024 (booth #S35171) the results of testing to determine whether BAEROPOL T-Blend 1214 TX stabilizer can enhance polyethylene (PE) film made with post-consumer recycled (PCR) material that is processed using state-of-the-art filtration technology. In collaboration with Austria’s EREMA Group, Baerlocher added the T-Blend product to waste packaging film, which was then processed using EREMA’s new INTAREMA® TVEplus® DuaFil® Compact machine. Evaluation of sample film made from a blend of the recycled material and virgin resin showed additional quality increase using the T-Blend stabilizer.
“Our new DuaFil® Compact technology has raised the bar in degassing and filtration efficiency and thus pellet quality for recycled film used in applications such as shrink film, stretch film or consumer bags,” said Clemens Kitzberger, business development manager, Post-Consumer Applications, EREMA Group. “However, film recycling involves many variables, some of which may require stabilization additives. Baerlocher’s market-leading technology works beautifully with our new equipment to further improve film appearance and quality. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Baerlocher to bring the highest-quality recycled polyolefins to the market.”
The INTAREMA® TVEplus® DuaFil® Compact is on display at the EREMA booth (#W4471).
“BAEROPOL T-Blend 1214 TX stabilizer is widely requested by converters seeking to reduce gel content and improve the overall performance of films containing PCR content,” said Chad Harlan, strategic business unit director, Special Additives, Baerlocher USA. “To evaluate its continued benefits for film recycling in light of new technology advancements, we tested the T-Blend additive on the most sophisticated filtration equipment available today. We were pleased – but not surprised – to see that our T-Blend product is still the right solution for adding value to recycled film.”
Reducing Large Gel Coverage by Nearly 50 Percent
For the test, a standardized film fraction (DSD 310) of European curbside collected packaging waste was recycled with 0.3 percent of BAEROPOL T-Blend 1214 TX stabilizer using the INTAREMA® TVEplus® DuaFil® Compact. The film was formulated with 20 percent recyclate in a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) resin to produce the packaging for evaluation. Film without the T-Blend additive was also produced for comparison. Automated counting of large defects (160 um and above) revealed that the film containing T-Blend stabilized PCR content had a much better visual appearance than the reference film, which had a 45 percent greater surface area affected by large gels. These large gels are primarily responsible for degrading the visual appearance of PE film and causing operational issues.
The INTAREMA® TVEplus® DuaFil® Compact features a lower melt temperature and reduced energy consumption compared to earlier versions of the equipment. It also ensures gentle melt handling and the finest, double filtered and optimally degassed recycled pellets.
BAEROPOL T-Blends are a family of blended synergistic stabilizers preformulated to provide superior stabilization for most polymer applications. They provide excellent polymer solubility and hydrolytic stability. BAEROPOL T-BLENDs can enhance the melt flow of recycled polymers and prime resin compounds, and improve the aesthetics, performance and useful life of end applications.
For more information, please contact Roberto Nunez (nunez.roberto@baerlocher.com) or Elayna Simmons (simmons.elayna@Baerlocher.com).
ORLANDO, Fla. – May 6, 2024 – Baerlocher USA, part of the Baerlocher Group, a leading global supplier of plastic additives, is showcasing here at NPE2024 (booth #S35171) the latest solutions from its Special Additives and PVC Additives businesses that address a range of sustainability challenges. The company is featuring BAEROPOL T-Blend stabilizers that add value to recycled polyolefin resins and films; new BAEROLUB® AID polymer processing aids (PPAs) formulated without per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); bio-plasticizers for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that enhance processing and aesthetics; calcium-based stabilizers for PVC; and metal soaps made with Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified palm oil.
On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday during the show, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., Baerlocher is also offering Tech Talks on various topics related to PVC, recycling and sustainability which will be presented by industry experts at its booth. Topics cover PVC and polyolefin stabilization, including the transition from tin to more-sustainable calcium/zinc formulations; PVC lubrication basics; polyolefin and PVC recycling; the circular economy; and design for recycling principles. For more details, visit: www.baerlocherusa.com/npe2024.
“Our special additive technologies demonstrate Baerlocher’s continuing investments to advance circularity and environmental protection, while offering resin producers, recyclers and converters measurable performance and quality benefits,” said Chad Harlan, strategic business unit director, Special Additives, Baerlocher USA. “Through trusted relationships, we provide expertise, problem resolution and encouragement to guide customers along their path to greater sustainability.”
“Additive technology can play an important role in improving the sustainability of PVC systems,” said Josh Wierzba, strategic business unit director, PVC Additives, Baerlocher USA. “Because this is a complex issue, Baerlocher offers multiple additives, from bio-plasticizers to environmentally friendly calcium-based heat stabilizers. We supplement our products with strong technical expertise and resources that can help customers overcome adoption issues and make a successful transition to the next generation of sustainable additives.”
Exhibit Highlights
Raising the Bar in PFAS-free PPAs. As the polyolefin industry moves away from highly regulated forever chemicals, new BAEROLUB AID additives are setting the standard for PFAS-free PPAs among major resin producers. Compared to competitive products, they perform under different polyethylene (PE) resin platforms and catalysts, and do not interfere with additives such as slip and anti-block agents. For more details, read the press release.
Adding Value to Recycled Film. At NPE, Baerlocher is revealing test results that show BAEROPOL T-Blend 1214 TX stabilizer can enhance PE film made with post-consumer recycled (PCR) material that is processed using EREMA Group’s newest and most sophisticated technology – the INTAREMA TVEPlus® DuaFil® Compact double filtration machine. Benefits of this stabilizer for recycled film include fewer large gels vs. unstabilized PCR material.
Improving PVC Processing with Bio-plasticizers. In March 2024, Baerlocher began distributing Innoleics’ portfolio of non-phthalate bio-plasticizers in the United States. The company is also producing bio-plasticizer/liquid mixed metal customizable one-packs for flexible PVC. These cost-effective proprietary plasticizers reduce or eliminate common issues with vegetable-based additives. For information on this partnership, read the announcement.
Calcium-based Stabilizers for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Baerlocher USA offers low toxicity, environmentally friendly calcium/zinc (CaZn) solid mixed-metal heat stabilizers suitable for rigid PVC applications. Calcium-based stabilizers are a more environmentally responsible alternative to tin-based stabilizers, a potentially toxic heavy metal. Calcium zinc stabilizers are already used in flexible PVC applications such as wire & cable, calendared film, extruded profiles, flooring and foam sheet.
Protecting Forest Habitat. Baerlocher’s metal soaps are available in formulations that use palm oil certified by the RSPO. The company’s broad portfolio of metal soaps offers many options to meet different application needs.
Baerlocher USA’s sales and technical experts are available throughout NPE to speak with visitors about the material challenges they may be experiencing and offer opportunities for collaboration.
ORLANDO, Fla. – May 6, 2024 – Baerlocher USA, part of the Baerlocher Group, a leading global supplier of plastics additives, revealed here at NPE2024 (booth #S35171) that its recently introduced BAEROLUB® AID products are quickly setting a new standard for polymer processing aids (PPAs) formulated without per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These breakthrough products can benefit polyethylene (PE) blown film converters and their resin suppliers, which are major users of PPAs. In addition to addressing regulatory restrictions on PFAS, BAEROLUB AID products offer significant advantages over competitors. As a result, all major North American PE resin producers are currently evaluating these PPAs in house or at customer facilities.
“Since the launch of our BAEROLUB AID family, we’ve seen strong and growing interest in different product forms from large resin manufacturers,” said Chad Harlan, strategic business unit director, Special Additives, Baerlocher USA. “Their initial inquiries have led to successful testing, prototyping and production runs under varying conditions. These positive results show that our proprietary chemistry clearly outperforms other PFAS-free PPAs, and delivers significant film processing and cost advantages. These factors, along with global regulatory approval, position our BAEROLUB AID family as a new PPA standard and a key enabler for the transition from PFAS-based additives.”
Broad Performance Under Different PE Platforms, Catalysts and Additives
Unlike many PFAS-free PPAs, BAEROLUB AID products do not rely on polyethylene glycol and siloxane chemistries with known processability limitations. They perform with both types of PE catalysts and a broad range of resin architecture, including butene, hexene and octene copolymers. They deliver rapid melt fracture clearing for metallocene and Ziegler-Natta linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These clearing times equal or exceed those of traditional PPAs containing PFAS. BAEROLUB AID PPAs work well in resins with a range of melt index values, even those below 1.0. Importantly, they do not interfere with anti-block and slip agents used in blown film, subject to normal adjustments.
BAEROLUB AID products can also be used in extruded potable water pipe and wire & cable applications, where they minimize die build-up and reduce extruder torque. These PPAs are available as neat additives (pastilles, rods, granules and powders), custom blends and in masterbatch form. Baerlocher also offers customers regulatory expertise and support for lab and technical screening, blown film testing and preparation for production trials.
For film converters that prefer using barefoot resins, we work with different partners to supply BAEROLUB AID 2201 in a masterbatch form.
NPE2024 takes place May 6-10, in Orlando, Fla.
Baerlocher USA Partners with Innoleics for Bioplasticizer Launch
CINCINNATI, Ohio – Mar. 7, 2024 – Baerlocher USA, part of the Baerlocher Group, a leading global supplier of plastics additives, and Innoleics, a U.S. innovator in bio-based plasticizers, today announced a new partnership agreement. Under the terms of the deal, Baerlocher USA now distributes Innoleics' full line of bio-based plasticizers for flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) applications to the U.S. market, providing customers with greater access to these innovative, sustainable materials. The company will also leverage Innoleics’ products to produce customizable bio-plasticizer/liquid mixed metal one-pack solutions. This strategic partnership expands Baerlocher USA’s portfolio and strengthens its position as a trusted solutions supplier to the plastics industry.
CINCINNATI, Ohio – Nov. 29, 2023 – Baerlocher USA, part of the Baerlocher Group, a leading global supplier of plastics additives, today announced the introduction of Baerolub® AID polymer processing aids (PPAs) to help customers smoothly transition from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Baerlocher’s new PPA for blown film, pipe and wire & cable are free of PFAS and siloxanes, are cost-competitive with existing and new PPA solutions, and are compatible with other additives used in film, such as anti-block or slip agents. Baerolub AID PPAs deliver rapid melt fracture clearing for metallocene and Ziegler Natta linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), equaling or surpassing clearing times of traditional PPAs containing PFAS.
