Improving Functionality of Polyolefin Films through the Use of Additives

Abstract

Polyolefin films are the workhorses of the packaging and agricultural industries. Their omnipresence is driven by their good mechanical and durability properties as well as their excellent cost/performance ratio. However, polyolefin chemistry has some intrinsic properties, e.g., lack of optical transparency, hydrophobicity, static generation leading to dust attraction and inadequate barrier properties, which need to be significantly altered so that films made from these resins are suitable for some specific markets and applications. This paper shows how additives can play a significant role to overcome some of these shortcomings and create differentiated film products with added value.

Design of UV-Absorbing Polypropylene Films with Polymeric Benzotriaziole Based Nano- and Microparticle Coatings

“…Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is responsible for the photodestruction, discoloration, and the loss of mechanical properties of polymers and plastics. In addition, UV radiation can adversely affect substances within the plastic such as food and beverages, pharmaceutical products, and household, cosmetic, and personal care products, by leading to color fading of food, accelerated oxidation of oils and fats, and loss of vitamin content in fruit juice and milk. − Therefore, protecting light-sensitive materials against UV irradiation is an important technological demand in the vast majority of industrial fields …”