Microsphere

Heat-expandable microcapsules

KUREHA microspheres are thermally expandable microcapsules developed by Kureha. They are used in a wide range of applications, including automobile components, footwear soles, foaming ink, and adhesives.

About the product

KUREHA microspheres are thermally expandable microcapsules.
They consist of polymer shells encapsulating gas as a blowing agent (mainly aliphatic hydrocarbon). When the gas inside the shell is heated, it increases capacity and softens thermoplastic shells, resulting in a dramatic volume increase.
Hollow and extremely light plastic balloons are formed by its expansion rate of about 50-250 times.

KUREHA Microsphere after expansion thermally expandable microcapsules

Before and after the expansion of Microsphere

Applications

Lightweighting
Automotive interiors/underbody coatings
Footwear soles
Design
Wallpaper
Synthetic leather
Foaming ink
Others
Heat-insulating materials
Anti-slip agents

Features

Sharp expansion
Range of starting expansion temperature and maximum temperature is narrow
Good particle size distribution
Contributes to uniform foaming
Whiteness
Less yellowing by heat discoloration at the time of heating

Installation advantages

With the added benefit of helping to reduce material costs and weight while maintaining their durability.

Specifications

Grade lineup

Expansion Ratio/Temperature