A new plasma-coating machine is currently being developed at SIG Corpoplast in cooperation with Schott HiCotec.
The machine to be launched in mid-2003 under the name Plasmax is expected to improve the barrier performance of PET bottles.
Pulsed ‘cold’ plasma is used to deposit a very thin glass [SiOx] layer of homogeneity and adhesion on the interior of the bottle. This is said to provide an unrivalled improvement in the barrier effect.
In addition, the deposition process is integrated in a high-performance carousel-type machine that is said to ensure a reliable bottle transporting mechanism.
The machine can easily be integrated into existing filling lines.