3M™ Glass Bubbles K37

• Flow properties: 3M™ Glass Bubbles K37 will remain free flowing for at least one year from the date of shipment from 3M 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 such as high speed Cowles Dissolvers, and point contact shear such as gear pumps and 3-roll mills. For twin screw extruders, place 3M™ Glass Bubbles K37 in a downstream port to minimize time in the extruder.

• Use safety glasses with side shields for eye protection.

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

• Do not open glass bubbles packages until ready to use.

• Upon opening, have an appropriate local exhaust ventilation near the opening to pull away airborne particles. Dust collection equipment may be required (check local OSHA and other 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 conveying systems have been used successfully to transport glass bubbles without dusting from shipping containers to batch mixing equipment.

• Static eliminators should be used to prevent static buildup.

• An air-purifying respirator suitable for particulates may be selected for protection after an optional exposure assessment is performed for your specific application.

• Ideal storage conditions include unopened cartons in a dry and temperature-controlled warehouse.

• Extended exposure of 3M™ Glass Bubbles iM16K 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 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.

• Due to the low weight and small particle size of 3M glass bubbles iM16K, avoid creating dust while handling and processing.