Everything you need to know about silicone masterbatches: Functions, Selection, and Domestic Suppliers

Better dispersionAdded in the form of masterbatch, to avoid the problems of difficult dispersion and easy migration of liquid silicone oil.

Higher thermal stabilityUltra-high molecular weight silicone has a decomposition temperature > 250°C, enabling it to withstand the high temperatures of nylon processing.

Non-migratory: Form a lasting lubricating layer on the surface of the product, which is not prone to exudation or "blooming"

According to the different carrier resins, silicone masterbatches can be divided into general types (polyolefin carriers) and special types (PA6, PA66 carriers), with the latter having better compatibility with nylon matrix.

The molecular chain of silicone is extremely flexible, and adding it can significantly reduce the melt viscosity of nylon, improving its flowability in screws and molds. This is particularly important for thin-walled parts, complex structural parts, and high glass fiber filled systems.

Reduce torque and energy consumptionSilicone can reduce the friction between the melt and the processing equipment, lower the extruder torque, and extend the equipment life.

Improvement of demolding propertyIn injection molding, silicone helps the product to be easily demolded and reduces surface defects.

The coefficient of friction decreases significantly.Adding 3% silicone masterbatch to nylon 66 can reduce the dynamic friction coefficient from 0.38 to 0.12, and the static friction coefficient from 0.35 to 0.20.

Silicone migration to the surface of the product forms a micro-lubricating layer, which can bring multiple improvements in surface performance.

Glossiness and Tactile FeelReduce surface roughness to achieve high gloss and a silky touch.

Scratch resistance and wear resistanceIn automotive interior parts, silicone can significantly improve the material’s scratch resistance rating.

Anti-adhesionReduce adhesion issues during film and sheet stacking

The flexibility of silicone molecular chains enables absorption of impact energy, thereby enhancing the low-temperature toughness of nylon—particularly suitable for components requiring drop resistance or dynamic loading (e.g., automotive parts, electronic housings). When compounded with elastomers such as POE or EPDM, silicone exhibits synergistic improvements in impact resistance while avoiding excessive loss of stiffness.

In a halogen-free flame-retardant nylon system, silicone masterbatch can be used as a flame retardant synergist, bringing multiple benefits:

Reduce the amount of flame retardantIn glass fiber reinforced flame retardant nylon 6/66, adding 2% of silicone synergist can reduce the amount of phosphorus-based flame retardant from 18%-20% to 10%-12%.

Suppress droplet transferImproving the dripping phenomenon of flame-retardant materials during combustion

Reduce corrosivenessReduce total phosphorus content to reduce the risk of corrosion to metal connectors

Comprehensive Cost OptimizationOverall material costs can be reduced by more than 10%.

Silicone masterbatch can also serve as a functional carrier, helping flame retardants, pigments, fillers, etc., to be uniformly dispersed in the nylon matrix, reducing agglomeration and improving the efficiency of modification.

According to market research institution data, the global silicone masterbatch market size was approximately USD 1.402 to 1.465 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 2.039 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate of about 5.5% to 5.7%. The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market, with China playing a significant role.

0.5%-1%Primarily aimed at improving processing flow and demolding

2%-5%Optimize surface performance, reduce friction coefficient, and enhance scratch resistance.

Silicone masterbatch can be directly physically mixed with resin pellets, and then extruded and pelletized or injection molded through a twin-screw extruder.

Pre-dry at 80-90°C for 3-4 hours before processing.

For a PA6 matrix, it is preferable to use a PA6 carrier silicone masterbatch (such as Silike LYSI-307) for better compatibility.

Excessive addition (>5%) may lead to a decrease in material rigidity or surface "bloom," and it is necessary to balance the properties according to the formula.