High Clarity Linear Low Density Polyethelene for Packaging Applications, 2005 PLACE Conference

As packaging applications become more demanding, film extruders are searching for resins with a combination of properties, including strength, clarity and stiffness. Many conventional resins, such as high-pressure low density polyethylene are clear, but lack the overall balance of toughness and stiffness that many applications require. Linear low density polyethylenes provide increased toughness and stiffness, but most lack the high gloss and low haze required for clarity applications. To achieve better film clarity, some extruders use lower density linear polyethylenes or blend with high pressure polyethylenes, thus sacrificing stiffness and toughness. A new polyethylene that combines good stiffness, clarity and toughness is now available for these demanding applications. This polyethylene, a 0.926 g/cc density linear low density based polyethylene can be used to produce stiff, clear films that can be used in a variety of applications including shrink wrap, and form, fill and seal applications.