Borealis unveils 'step change' LLDPE film

16-Sep-2010 - Last updated on 17-Sep-2010 at 11:12 GMT

Significant downgauging, improved strength and greater puncture resistance are benefits claimed by Borealis for its new linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) range of films.

The Austria-based company said its BorLite range could give flexible packaging converters “a unique opportunity to gain a further competitive edge” at the same time as reducing their carbon dioxide emissions. The firm said it saw “huge potential” for the films in many advanced food packaging applications such as stand up pouches, candy wraps and lamination films as well as labels, sleeves and fresh food packaging.

Machine direction orientation

The product sets new standards for machine direction orientation (MDO) film, said Borealis. In the MDO process, the film is stretched in the same direction as the machine – as opposed to transversal direction orientation (TDO) where the film is stretched at 90 degrees across the machine.

The firm said the MDO film can achieve a “step change” in downgauging of up to 40 per cent, an eight per cent cut in energy use and a reduction of 130 tons of CO2 emission per hundred tons of goods packed.

“With BorLite we achieve splitness levels similar to blown film material,” a company spokesman told FoodProductionDaily.com. He added the film was between six and eight time more resistant than conventional MDO material. It impact strength has also been significantly boosted by two or three times compared to typical MDO films.

The BorLite range includes three grades designed to meet the needs of different applications: BorLite OPE792, BorLite OPE795 and BorLite OPE797.

Developing the range is part of the company’s on-going commitment to advanced MDO products, added a Borealis statement.

“Together with our Borstar bimodal technology, we recognised in MDO processing technology the high potential to tackle the efficiency, product performance trends and environmental needs and challenges facing the market,” said company application marketing manager Paulo Cavacas. “We are convinced that the advantages of BorLite combined with the application know-how and tools we can offer at our Innovation Headquarters in Linz give a competitive edge to our customers.”