N95 vs N85 Filler Masterbatch: How to Select for PE Film
Kovicrea lists N95 and N85 as separate sodium sulfate filler masterbatch grades for film production. This guide explains their published application positioning, what specifications buyers should request, and how to run a fair side-by-side trial. Grade names alone do not establish filler content, recommended dosage or guaranteed performance.
Why Grade Names Are Not a Specification
A model name is useful for identifying a product, but it does not by itself confirm mineral content, particle size, carrier resin or usable loading. Kovicrea publicly positions N95 as a high-loading film-grade filler option for HDPE and LDPE, while N85 is described as a cost-effective grade for LDPE film. These are product-positioning descriptions, not independent comparative test results. Do not interpret “95” or “85” as a verified percentage without a current grade-specific technical data sheet.
Start With the End Product
For HDPE garbage bags, prioritize mechanical properties, appearance and output stability. For LDPE packaging film, transparency, softness and sealing may be more prominent. An LDPE-oriented grade may be worth trialing in LDPE film, but suitability still depends on the specific resin and target properties. If the customer uses an ABA line, layer placement and total-film concentration are additional selection variables.
Request Comparable Technical Information
Ask for the current technical data sheet for each candidate grade, including carrier compatibility, typical processing guidance, storage recommendations and test methods for any published performance figures. Where relevant, request information about mineral content, ash, particle characteristics and moisture handling. Verify that measurements were obtained by comparable methods and that the supplier identifies the test conditions.
How to Run a Fair N95 vs N85 Trial
Use the same resin lot, film structure, nominal thickness, machine settings and acceptance criteria for both candidates. Compare a control formulation with each grade at an agreed feed rate. If their actual mineral contents differ, comparing equal masterbatch feed percentages may not mean equal mineral loading; calculate both metrics where reliable composition data is available. Collect stabilized production samples and repeat key tests.
What to Measure on the Film Line
Record extrusion pressure, melt stability, bubble behavior, film thickness distribution, visible spots, haze or opacity, tensile and elongation, tear and sealing performance as required. Also record throughput, scrap and any cleaning or screen-pack changes. A grade with a lower purchase price may still be more expensive per acceptable unit if it increases defects or forces a thicker film.
Decision Matrix for Purchasing Teams
Create a weighted scorecard with mandatory pass/fail requirements first: required bag strength, seal integrity and visual quality. Only after a grade passes these gates should the team compare cost per accepted bag, supply consistency, delivery lead time and technical response. Keep trial records with batch identifiers so later bulk deliveries can be compared against the approved sample.
Discuss the Right Grade with Kovicrea
Provide the resin type, single-screw or ABA/ABC structure, finished product, thickness, desired savings and critical quality limits. Ask Kovicrea to confirm the latest N95 and N85 specifications and arrange application-specific samples. Product descriptions on a website are a starting point; plant trials determine the correct selection.
Explore Related Technical Resources
Continue learning in the Kovicrea Technical Insights center, or compare application-oriented grades on our sodium sulfate filler masterbatch product page. For a broader overview, read our Na₂SO₄ filler masterbatch technical guide.