SABIC and JSW Collaborate on TF-BOPE Resin

SABIC and JSW Collaborate on TF-BOPE Resin SABIC's TF-BOPE resin supports down-gauging and corresponding reductions of up to 50%, and offers a mono-PE film solution designed for end-of-life recycling in existing packaging recovery streams for flexible packaging. SABIC, a leading global chemical company, has announced that Japan Steel Works, Ltd. (JSW) has approved the use of SABIC® LLDPE BX202, a linear low-density polyethylene resin specially developed for the tenter-frame extrusion equipment process of biaxially-oriented PE (TF-BOPE) packaging film. The value-chain collaboration supports SABIC's TF-BOPE material usage on JSW film lines, expanding the equipment supplier's footprint in the BOPE film market for flexible packaging, and underscores SABIC's leading role in this market segment. Sami Al-Osaimi, Vice President of Petrochemicals at SABIC, stated: "There is an increasing market trend and demand for single-material solutions to facilitate end-of-life recycling of used packaging products, while also supporting brand owners and packaging manufacturers in their efforts to meet down-gauging requirements and ambitious reduction targets for their applications. [caption id="attachment_146190" align="aligncenter"] Japan Steel Works, Ltd. (JSW) has approved the use of SABIC® LLDPE BX202, a linear low-density polyethylene resin specially developed for processing in tenter-frame extrusion equipment for biaxially-oriented PE (TF-BOPE) packaging film.(Photo: JSW)[/caption]   The partnership with JSW has confirmed our strong commitment to accelerating the implementation of advanced material and equipment solutions for flexible packaging by working with global value-chain partners who share our mindset of reduction, reuse and recycling while contributing to the circular plastics economy." he added. Comprehensive trials with SABIC LLDPE BX202 resin conducted on a pilot film production line at JSW's Extrusion Technology Center in Hiroshima demonstrated superior performance of the material. As a result, this TF-BOPE standard is currently considered best-in-class for operation in existing tenter-frame film lines for BOPE and also in slightly modified equipment for biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP). Toshiyuki Ninomiya, Assistant Factory Manager at JSW's Hiroshima Plant, stated: "After testing SABIC's LLDPE BX202 material on our Bi-Axial Film Stretching pilot line, we were very impressed by its performance. Its excellent processability combined with good mechanical properties places this material in an important position within our recommended material portfolio for our customers and strengthens our position in the BOPE market." [caption id="attachment_146191" align="aligncenter"] SABIC® LLDPE BX202 is a linear low-density polyethylene resin specially designed for processing in tenter-frame extrusion lines for biaxially-oriented polyethylene (TF-BOPE) packaging film, combining superior optical and mechanical properties with significant down-gauging potential. For example, in food packaging applications, the TF-BOPE grade provides excellent clarity, lower haze and high gloss along with twice the impact strength, puncture resistance, tensile strength and stiffness compared to conventional blown PE film of equal thickness.[/caption] By collaborating with SABIC for the use of high-performance TF-BOPE resin in our advanced film extrusion lines, we are actively promoting broader application of more efficient and sustainable, circular 'single-material' film solutions designed for recycling." SABIC's LLDPE BX202 material combines exceptional processability with good mechanical and optical properties, such as excellent clarity and twice the impact strength, puncture resistance, tensile strength and stiffness compared to conventional blown PE film of equal thickness. This means that SABIC's material offers significant potential for greater down-gauging and corresponding reductions in weight, material consumption and carbon emissions. With potential packaging material reductions of up to 50% compared to conventional blown PE film, this also translates to shorter cooling times and potentially higher line speeds, maximizing application productivity. The mono-PE material also increases the recyclability of final flexible packaging applications at end-of-life, without compromising the integrity of packaged products such as frozen food, fruit and vegetable packaging applications. SABIC's TF-BOPE polymer is available in approved circular grades from the TRUCIRCLE™ portfolio as well as approved renewable qualities.     Source