3M™ Glass Bubbles
iM16K
High-strength hollow glass microspheres engineered for plastic and rubber parts made by injection moulding, extrusion, Banbury mixing and other demanding processing methods.
More volume. Less mass.
iM16K combines 0.46 g/cc true density with 16,000 psi crush strength at 90% survival, enabling low-density filler volume to survive injection moulding, extrusion and other vigorous polymer processing.
15%+ LIGHTER
The data sheet states final part weight can be reduced by 15% or more without compromising mechanical integrity.
DIMENSIONAL STABILITY
Helps reduce shrinkage and sink marks in suitable moulded polymer parts.
PROCESS SURVIVAL
16,000 psi strength supports demanding injection moulding, extrusion and mixing processes.
BROAD POLYMER USE
For automotive, heavy truck, aerospace, electrical, electronics, appliance and durable-goods applications.
Built for lightweight systems
Representative automotive plastics, polymer granules and composite applications. Final suitability depends on polymer chemistry, loading, mould design, processing shear and end-use qualification.
AUTOMOTIVE PLASTIC PARTS
Potential part-weight reduction of 15% or more, together with improved dimensional stability and reduced shrinkage and sink marks.
POLYMER GRANULES & COMPOUNDING
High crush strength supports injection moulding, extrusion and other vigorous processing equipment.
ENGINEERED POLYMER COMPOSITES
Low-density filler for automotive, heavy truck, aerospace, electrical, appliance and durable-goods components.
Density and strength
Charts reproduce K37 values from the supplied technical data sheet and compare its strength-to-density position with lighter K-series grades.
True density
Isostatic pressure at stated survival
Protect flow and integrity
Keep unopened cartons dry and temperature-controlled. Avoid high humidity, condensation and unnecessary dust generation.
Store dry
Reseal opened bags immediately and use first-in/first-out inventory practices.
Control dust
Use local exhaust or dust collection and transfer through closed systems where practical.
Use PPE
Use safety glasses with side shields and consult the SDS for exposure controls and respiratory protection.
TYPICAL PROPERTIES
Values below are reproduced from the supplied technical data sheet and are not for specification purposes.
| Property | 3M™ Glass Bubbles iM16K |
|---|---|
| Shape | Hollow spheres with thin walls |
| Composition | Soda-lime borosilicate glass |
| Colour / appearance | Off-white, powdery |
| Crush strength, 90% survival by volume | 16,000 psi |
| True density | 0.46 g/cc |
| Packing factor | 60% |
| pH at 5 wt% loading in water | 9.5 |
| Average diameter | 20 µm |
| Softening point | 600°C |
| Flotation, density below 1.0 g/cc | 96% |
| Volatile content by weight | 0.5% |
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