ExxonMobil Chemical has launched a new OPP film with high gas barrier properties for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) applications.
The 21-µm Bicor MB866 OPP film features a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) coating on one side and an acrylic coating on the reverse to provide all-round performance for oxygen-sensitive dry products requiring MAP such as fruits and nuts, cereals, snacks, roasted coffees, and pet foods, according to the company.
The film is currently available in Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. With an oxygen barrier level below 1cc/m²/day, this film delivers a barrier performance at the level of metallized polyester (PET) and typically higher than most other clear barrier solutions such as polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC) or ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) coated or coextruded films, the company stated.
The surface energy of the PVOH coating helps ink receptivity and its chemical barrier contributes to reduced solvent retention.
This clear barrier film uses solvent-free and chlorine-free coatings and provides protection from external contaminants and secondary packaging. "The film's excellent flavor and aroma barrier properties keep dry products tasting and smelling fresh," said Laurent Chantraine, international market segment manager, ExxonMobil Chemical films business, in the news release.
Laminated to an acrylic OPP film, the structure can be lap sealed and side gussets sealed for stand-up packaging.
"Exhibiting high clarity, gloss and stiffness, Bicor MB866 OPP film provides aesthetic benefits that help promote customer "pick-up" in retail outlets," the company stated. The new film is an extension of ExxonMobil Chemical's transparent biaxially oriented polypropylene (OPP) Bicor films that are designed for flexible packaging applications.
Available for use in laminates on vertical form fill seal (VFFS) and horizontal form fill seal (HFFS) equipment, Bicor OPP films feature proprietary coating technologies for food and nonfood packaging needs.
