Metrastat SA provides a quantitative system for polymer heat stability analysis, enabling manufacturers to accurately assess material degradation and stabilizer performance. Their solution combines a precisely controlled oven with a reflectometer that quantifies subtle color and fluorescence changes, optimizing formulations and ensuring product consistency.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Manufacturers of polymers and plastic products face challenges in accurately assessing material degradation and stabilizer performance under thermal stress. Inconsistent testing methods and subjective visual evaluations can lead to suboptimal product quality and increased production costs.
Solution
Metrastat SA provides a comprehensive system for quantitative polymer heat stability analysis, comprising the METRASTAT PLC TOUCH oven and the FLUOSCAN REFLECTOMETER. The PLC TOUCH oven utilizes Siemens automation for precise temperature control and uniform heat distribution within its chamber, facilitating the controlled degradation of polymer samples. The FLUOSCAN REFLECTOMETER then quantifies subtle color changes and fluorescence intensity variations that indicate stabilizer consumption and degradation progression. This data-driven approach enables manufacturers to optimize formulations, ensure product consistency, and reduce material waste.
Target Audience
The primary customers are polymer manufacturers, compounders, and plastic product producers in industries such as automotive, construction, and packaging, who require precise material characterization for quality control and R&D.
Features
- **METRASTAT PLC TOUCH Oven:** Features Siemens PLC automation for precise temperature regulation (50-300°C ±1%) and uniform heat distribution.
- **Dynamic Testing Capability:** Designed for progressive exposure of polymer samples to heat, simulating real-world processing conditions.
- **Corrosion Resistance:** Constructed with 316L stainless steel for durability in environments with hydrogen halides.
- **Sample Handling:** Accommodates 10 samples (260 x 12 x 6mm) or 5 larger samples (260 x 25 x 6mm) on non-corrodable trays.
- **Adjustable Test Parameters:** Allows for unlimited preheating time (1s to 100min) and test durations (30 seconds to 30 days).
- **FLUOSCAN REFLECTOMETER:** Employs dual detector heads (white light D65 LED and UV 365nm LED) for color and fluorescence analysis.
- **CIE L*a*b* Color Space Measurement:** Provides quantitative data on lightness, redness/greenness, and yellowness/blueness.
- **Fluorescence Intensity Analysis:** Detects and quantifies fluorescence changes, indicative of stabilizer activity and degradation pathways.
- **Data Export:** Allows for data export in Excel format or direct printing for analysis and reporting.
- **Modular Construction:** Facilitates ease of maintenance for both the oven and reflectometer units.