SEMITECH KR-TTS — Isopropyl Triisostearoyl Titanate
KR-TTS synthesis requires TTIP and isostearic acid. China controls ~60% of global TiCl₄ capacity; any TiO₂ demand surge tightens TTIP availability within 4–6 weeks. Isostearic acid pricing links loosely to CPO futures via palm-derived oleic acid feedstock.
Technical Specifications
| Raw Material | Source Region | TiCl₄/CPO Link | Supply Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) | China (60%), India, EU | TiO₂ cycle (high) | Medium-High |
| Isostearic acid (C18 branched) | Malaysia, Indonesia, US | CPO futures (moderate) | Low-Medium |
| Isopropanol (solvent/reactant) | China, US, EU | Propylene / LPG | Low |
| KR-TTS finished product | China (SEMITECH) | Derived from above | Managed via safety stock |
Chemistry & Coupling Mechanism
KR-TTS is a monoalkoxy titanate. The isopropoxy group bonds to filler surface hydroxyls (CaCO₃, talc, mica), while three triisostearoyl ester tails provide organophilic compatibility with PVC and PE matrices. The branched C18 chains prevent close-packing, keeping treated filler wettable — translating directly to lower melt viscosity during extrusion.
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Applications in PVC and PE
In rigid PVC at 30–60 phr CaCO₃, KR-TTS at 0.5–1.0 wt% on filler reduces Brabender torque 15–25% and improves impact strength. In PE film and pipe, 1.0–1.5% on talc improves dispersion, reduces fish-eye defects, and increases elongation. No pre-hydrolysis step needed — preferred over silanes in continuous compounding.
- Rigid PVC pipe & profiles — 0.5–1.0% on CaCO₃; viscosity −15–25%, improved impact
- PE film & geomembrane — 1.0–1.5% on talc; eliminates fish-eye defects
- Rubber & EPDM seals — Mica-filled; improves green strength and filler adhesion
Price Outlook
TTIP rangebound at USD 2.8–3.4/kg ex-China. Isostearic acid eased 8–12% from 2024 highs. China-sourced KR-TTS from SEMITECH delivers 30–45% below Kenrich US list prices. Kenrich's 10–14 week lead time premium imposes 4–7% working capital cost for lean-inventory compounders.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Q: What is KR-TTS used for?
A: Surface-treating CaCO₃, talc, and mica fillers in PVC and PE compounds to reduce melt viscosity, improve dispersion, and enhance filler-matrix adhesion.
+Q: What is the recommended loading on CaCO₃?
A: 0.5–1.0 wt% on filler weight. 1.0–1.5% for finer fillers (d50 <3 µm). Above 1.5% gives diminishing returns and may cause surface bloom.
+Q: How does KR-TTS differ from KR-9S?
A: KR-9S carries phosphato ligands providing flame-retardant character for polar matrices. KR-TTS uses triisostearoyl ligands — preferred for non-polar polyolefin and plasticized PVC where fatty-acid compatibility and low cost dominate.
+Q: Is SEMITECH KR-TTS a direct equivalent to Kenrich KR-TTS?
A: Same CAS number (61417-49-0), molecular structure, and application profile. Ti content 3.8–4.2%, viscosity 60–100 mPa·s, flash point >100°C. Most compounders qualify through a 30-day application trial.
+Q: How should KR-TTS be applied?
A: Dry blending (dilute 1:1 in mineral spirits, spray onto filler in high-shear mixer 10–15 min) or direct liquid addition to the compounder. Dry pre-treatment preferred for fine CaCO₃ below 3 µm.
+Q: What are storage requirements?
A: Sealed containers, 5–30°C, away from moisture. 24-month shelf life. Flash point >100°C. Nitrile gloves and eye protection for handling.
+Ready to optimise your formulation?
Contact the Semitech technical team for product recommendations, samples and TDS.