Borealis introduces new transparent Borclear™ grade with superior optical properties for use in sterilizable applications

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, has introduced a new grade of Borclear™, a unique random copolymer family for highly transparent polypropylene (PP) blown and cast films. Borclear RE936CF was developed for use in food packaging and medical applications and offers film converters and cast film producers a product that provides cost-effective processing and significant end-user benefits including superior optical properties.

Produced with proprietary Borstar® PP 2G technology, Borclear RE936CF is ideal for the production of transparent films that have superior gloss and provide better pack aesthetics. Unlike other transparent films, it remains transparent (haze 2%) after sterilization.

Productivity and performance

Today, packaging film converters are facing tough competition and pressure on their margins. Improving productivity on film lines adds value to their operations. Where other films’ optics deteriorate with increasing line speed, Borclear RE936CF allows more than 15% higher film line speed while maintaining equally good optical properties.

“Borclear RE936CF is particularly suited for the production of films for use in convenience packaging of prepared food,” comments Nina Ackermans, Application Marketing Manager of Borealis’ Business Unit Film & Fibre. “This new grade of transparent sterilizable polypropylene allows the development of innovative solutions for this market.”

Borstar PP 2G technology

Borclear RE936CF was developed using Borealis’ proprietary Borstar PP 2G technology, the second generation of multi-modal processes. Yielding a step change in polymer design, Borstar PP 2G consists of a new catalyst system in combination with process improvements. This results in a simplified process with fewer steps that offers increased safety, through modified catalyst handling.

The technology enables the molecular tailoring of PP to provide an optimal balance between processability and mechanical strength. This extends Borealis’ product range capability enabling more sophisticated, customer-oriented solutions. The Borstar PP 2G innovations are focused on unique combinations of properties and allow differentiation by a step change in purity, improved optical properties, improved stiffness – impact balance, excellent processability supporting high line speeds and transparent soft PPs.

Borstar PP 2G technology also provides a lower energy consumption of up to 5-10% per ton produced, depending on the grade, as well as increased plant capacity, to bring both cost and environmental benefits.

“Our strategy and our strength is our ability to add value by providing cutting-edge polypropylene solutions for advanced packaging applications such as these,” explains Marc Hubert, Borealis Vice President for the Film & Fibre Business Unit. “In order to drive these innovations for our customers throughout the value chain, Borealis invests heavily in both people and infrastructure. As we continue to create value through innovation, our plastics help to address some of the global challenges facing society today, and in the future.”