OPP and PET Films

Three metallized OPP films were featured at Pack Expo '98. In addition to two new enhancements to its PC-1 line, the company unveiled an integrated sealant barrier film designed to replace both foil and sealant. Other developments such as the down gauging and enhancement of PC-l, the inclusion of select PET films in the product line, and the company growth were also highlighted.

Continuing its focus on barrier technology, the company recently introduced PCF and PC-2. The First in the market with a two side convertible barrier OPP (PC-1), the PCF is designed as a drop-in replacement for 0.00025 and heavier foil in extrusion laminations. This material provides puncture resistance as well as enhanced metal detection. Its fit for use barrier actually enhances shelf life in many structures due to reduced flex cracking and pin holing. PC-2 is suited for applications requiring better oxygen barrier than PC-1 can offer, PC-2 also improves on PC-1's MVTR, which itself exceeds that of metallized PET.

Also featured was the MF28 film designed for integrated sealant foil replacement. A metallized OPP replaces not just the foil layer, but the sealant as well, yielding both material economics and potential process savings realized by combining only two webs instead of the traditional three used in foil based laminations. MF28 offers seal performance with the same flex crack resistance as the PC-1 family. MF28 could also be used in metallized PET pouch structures where a laminated or extrusion coated material is currently used as a sealant web.

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., 50 Belver Ave., North Kingstown, RI 02852-2596. Contact: Sheryl Kopf, 401-294-4511; Fax: 401-294-1480.