Borealis PP innovation for beverage caps combine organoleptic properties with unique design

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative value creating plastics solutions, has designed a unique polypropylene (PP) grade, RE450MO, to produce caps for bottled water, as well as sports and energy drinks. This new solution supports the beverage industry’s ambitions to create ever-more sophisticated and differentiated user-friendly closures. RE450MO retains the natural taste of the liquid inside while delivering design possibilities not previously available with existing polyethylene (PE) or PP caps.

RE450MO is a new solution based on Borealis’ unique Borstar® technology. This proprietary Borealis technology allows the tailoring of molecules to fit the needs of the value chain by combining good mechanical properties with good processability. The strength, flexibility, easy integration of colouring and organoleptic properties of the new grade, provide product differentiation and recognition for brand owners and attractive, safe, user-friendly packaging for consumers.

The material does not contain additives that could taint the natural taste or odour of the bottled product. Retaining the natural taste and odour of a bottled liquid is a top priority. Until recently, the organoleptic properties of PE have made it the only option for unlined caps used for taste sensitive drinks such as water. RE450MO contains ultra-low levels of volatile organic compound (VOC), giving the material high purity. Tests have shown that it fully matches the excellent taste and odour properties of standard PE grades commonly used for beverage caps.

From a design perspective, RE450MO offers good flow, low stress whitening and good hinge performance. Its flow flexibility allows versatile designs based on transparency, translucency or colouring. Hinges and closure fittings can withstand the stress of repeated use with minimal discolouration.

Borealis worked closely with Seaquist Closures, a leading manufacturer of dispensing closures and systems, to introduce this pioneering development in the market.

“Our customers, the product and brand owners, are always looking for new ways to make their products stand out from the competition, says Franz Lenz , Vice President Product Development & Technology of Seaquist Closures. To achieve this, we have to use materials in our closures that allow us to embrace trends and deliver a combination of practical functionality and exciting designs. RE450MO from Borealis provides the ideal mix of organoleptic and purity properties while allowing for versatile designs and the colours that are preferred today.”