MATERIALS | TECHNOLOGY POLYOLEFINS Coffee barrier uses mono-material film


Suedpack has developed a range of mono-material film solutions for packaging coffee beans and ground coffee – as an alternative to conven- tional PET/Al/PE composites. The high-performance films, made


from polypropylene (PP) or polyethyl- ene (PE), are part of the Pure-Line product family. Whether processed into flowpacks, stand-up pouches or vacuum pouches, they meet the packaging needs of coffee roasters, including high protection and good processability.


CAPACITOR FILM


Thermoplastics suited to electrical applications and EVs


At the recent PCIM Europe exhibition, Sabic show- cased several high-heat speciality thermoplas- tics that are suitable for electrical applica- tions, including components used in electric vehicles (EVs). One exhibit was Nichicon capacitors made with ultra-thin Elcres HTV150 dielectric film. These advanced film capacitors for AC-DC invert- ers can operate at high temperatures up to 150°C with minimal derating of applied voltage. In addi- tion, Sabic launched a new extrusion grade of Ultem with productivity and other advantages over existing materials used in magnet wire insulation for EV motors.


“Higher voltages are common across electrical applications from connec-


www.filmandsheet.com IMAGE: SABIC


compensate. However, Nichicon found that that capacitors made with Elcres HTV150 dielectric film saw minimal derating (less than 5% at 130°C and 14% at 150°C). Demands for


faster charging and


greater range have led to the development of 800V EV electric traction


tors and capacitors to wire and cable,” said Sergi Monros, vice president of Sabic Polymers. “Our speciality materials perform well under exposure to high voltages, high temperatures and harsh conditions.” Exposure to high tem-


peratures can lower the rated voltage of polymer film capacitors. For instance, the rated voltage of capacitors made with BOPP film may be halved at 125°C or above, requiring thicker gauges to


motors. These require magnet wires with im- proved insulation. Sabic says its new Ultem resin needs no primer and can deliver low and stable Dk at 220°C at up to 30% thinner gauges, to reduce overall weight and save space. In contrast to thermoset polyimide (PI) enamel coatings, it avoids the use of solvents that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can pose regulatory challenges. � www.sabic.com


With customised barrier properties and high opacity, the packaging protects premium coffee products and their aromas against UV radiation, oxygen, and water vapour. The films combine good sealing properties with high thermal resistance, foldability and strong puncture resistance. Mono- material PP or PE valves can be integrated via thermal or ultrasonic sealing with the company’s proprietary sealing media. Mono-material solu- tions ensure stable performance on standard packaging machines – with


no loss of performance when switch- ing from conventional laminates. Compared to conventional PET/Al/


PE packaging, a PP-based solution can reduce CO2e emissions by more than one-third, according to an internal screening LCA. Projections also indicate that, compared to conven- tional packaging, material usage can be cut by nearly 20% without compro- mising protection. In addition, a FlowPack PurePP can achieve around 90% recyclability. � www.suedpack.com


BIOPLASTICS


Coffee pod composts


due to PLA NatureWorks has helped Flo Group to develop a compostable single-serve coffee pod, made from its Ingeo PLA. The pod, called


Keygea, combines sustain- ability and high perfor- mance, ensuring “flawless coffee extraction without compromise on quality”, says the company. The pod optimises


water flow during extrac- tion, for a premium sensory experience, says Flo.


Engineered with high-barrier properties, Keygea protects against oxidation to preserve the coffee’s aroma and freshness for longer. Made with a new thermoforming technol- ogy, Keygea claims to be one of the lightest pods on the market, weighing 2.6g. � www.natureworksllc.com


May 2025 | FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION 39


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