Flex Films (USA), the global film manufacturing arm of Uflex, has launched a new high barrier metallized polyester film, FlexmetProtect F-HMB, designed to reduce the risk of laminate failure.

The firm said that popularity for metallized polyester films are increasing for imparting high barrier properties to laminated flexible packaging structures.

The new FlexmetProtect F-HMB is either untreated or corona treated on one surface. The metallization is carried out on the specially treated composite surface imparting metal adhesion or bond strength of >1200 gram-force/inch.

Flex Films (USA) technology general manager Steven Sargeant said: “The adhesion of metal on BOPET base film is the sum of chemical and mechanical adhesion.

“Our proprietary surface treatment on the base film allows increased levels of chelation or reaction with the metal being deposited, thereby resulting in a much better adhesion profile.

“The specialized surface treatment comprises materials with unique and enhanced properties thereby leading to much enhanced mechanical bonding. It took us almost 18 months to engineer this film.”

Flex Films (USA) business head Vijay Yadav said that the new demonstrates improved scuff, scratch and craze resistance this improving yields up to 4%.

The film, which complies with EU and FDA regulations for food grade applications, is said to be cost-effective and offers high adhesion to metal under most aggressive environmental conditions, the company said.

Available in 8-50 micron thickness range, the Flexmetprotect F-HMB film can be used for liquid packaging, stand up pouch applications, barrier layer in applications such as ‘bag in box’, chemical packaging, pharma packaging, hot fill applications up to 80 degree C, among others.

Uflex chairman and managing director Ashok Chaturvedi said “Flexmetprotect F-HMB is a classic example of value engineering that shall bring substantial benefits and cheer to the converting fraternity not only in the US but globally. This is Innovation to Create Value Added Differentiation.”

Uflex said that all of its film manufacturing plants in India, UAE, Poland, Egypt, Mexico and US will be able to supply Flexmetprotect F-HMB film for its customers.

Image: Flex Films’ new high barrier metallized polyester film. Photo: courtesy of Uflex Limited.