NatureWorks and Metalvuoto have launched Ingeo Propylester, a new high barrier flexible film that can be used in food packaging.
The new Ingeo-based flexible substrate can be used for longer shelf life foods that are packaged in flat, stand up, or squared bottom pouches.
Claimed to hold good process ability, Ingeo Propylester is suitable for food packaging in both horizontal and vertical form-fill-seal applications.
The film includes barrier properties of less than 0.75 cc/m2/24hr for oxygen and 2.5 g/m2/24hr for water vapor. It serves as a better oxygen barrier than metallized biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP).
Around 30 to 40 units have been produced in testing on pouch making machines. The production depends on the type of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper pouch, including flat, stand up, or square bottom.
Metalvuoto executive director Gianni Costanzo said: "Until now, the flexible packaging industry has grown up around the use of multi-material laminates because no one material was able to provide multiple functionality.
"For example, brand owners often use an aluminum layer for barrier, a PET layer for external aesthetics, and an internal PE layer for heat-seal ability."