Kraton Polymers said its new functionalized hydrogenated styrenic block copolymers technologyincreases the efficiency of manufacturing tie layers used in high performance barrier packaging.Processors are on the lookout for new barrier packaging that keeps out the oxidising gases thatdegrade product quality and shorten shelf life.
Kraton's new tie layer specifically targets high performance barrier packaging, such as stand up pouchesand clear retortable packaging. Tie layers are used by packaging manufacturers in coextrusions to bond dissimilar materials together, such as barrier materialslike nylon and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), and seal materials such as polyolefins, to create the strength and flexibility needed for variouspackaging.
Kraton said it has also developed grades within the its G polymer product line, which the companyclaims improves the clarity and puncture resistance of films. The G polymer now has better heat resistance when compared to conventional tie layermaterials, the company claimed.
"This new packaging option provides manufacturers with reduced costs and increased savings along the entire value chain by reducing waste and transportation costs, and by increasing the recyclability ofscraps," the company stated.