3M™ Glass Bubbles K20HS

These general-purpose microspheres offer very good strength-to-density ratio, making them suitable for a variety of uses, including:

• Oil and Gas
• Coatings
• Adhesives
• Mastics
• Sealants
• Thermoset Resin Systems

Flow properties:

3M™ Glass Bubbles K20HS will remain free flowing for at least two years from the date of manufacture when stored in the original, unopened container in accordance with the recommended storage conditions.

Glass bubble breakage:

• Breakage may occur if the product is severely processed.
• To minimize breakage, minimize exposure to high shear processes and point contact shear such as gear pumps and 3-roll mills.
• When adding to an extrusion process, the material should be added downstream of the feed hopper via a side stuffer or top feeder (similar to adding glass fiber). 

Handling:

Due to the low weight and small particle size of 3MTM Glass Bubbles K20HS, dusting may occur while handling and processing.

To minimize the dusting potential during handling, consider the following:

• Do not open glass bubbles packages until ready to use.
• Upon opening, have local exhaust ventilation near the opening to pull away airborne particles. (Dust collection equipment may be required – check local OSHA and other applicable regulations.)
• Remove glass bubbles with a suction “wand” (with slight positive pressure aeration) and transfer to a closed mixing tank inside fully contained piping.
• If a closed mixing tank is not available, use dust collection equipment as close as practical to the point of entry.
• Pneumatic conveyor systems have been used successfully to transport glass bubbles without dusting from shipping containers to batch mixing equipment.
• Equipment vendors should be consulted for recommendations.
• Static eliminators should be used to prevent static buildup.

Safety:

For worker protection, please consider the following:

• Use safety glasses with side shields for eye protection.
• An air-purifying respirator suitable for particulates may be selected for protection after an optional exposure assessment is performed for your specific application.
• Use with appropriate local exhaust ventilation/dust collection in the work area.

Storage:

• Ideal storage conditions include unopened cartons in a dry and temperature-controlled warehouse.
• Extended exposure of 3M™ Glass Bubbles K20HS boxes to high humidity and/or conditions susceptible to condensation may result in some amount of “caking” of the glass bubbles.

To minimize the potential for caking and thereby maximize storage life, the following suggestions are offered:

1. Carefully re-tie opened bags immediately after use.
2. If the polyethylene bag is punctured during shipping or handling, seal the hole as soon as possible or insert the contents into an undamaged bag.
3. During hot and/or humid months, store boxes in the driest, coolest space available.

If controlled storage conditions are unavailable, carry a minimum inventory, and process on a first in/first out basis.