Materials science company Dow has announced the launch of Dowsil 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid (PPA), designed to address the growing demand for film packaging manufactured without fluoropolymer-based PPAs. In addition to serving as an alternative to fluoro-based options, this technology offers primary benefits, among others, like melt fracture mitigation and die lip build up suppression in linear low density polyethylene grades, leading to high quality films, the company announced in a press statement.
A reliable PPA for a changing industry
“Historically, fluoropolymer-containing PPAs worked efficiently for most film applications and other processes,” Mubashir Ansari, technical service & development scientist at Dow, said. “Now that those are being phased out, converters are looking for effective alternatives. With Dowsil 5-1050 PPA, we have applied our technical experience in silicone and polyethylene materials to offer a regulatory-compliant option that doesn’t compromise on performance. By pairing innovations like this with our global supply capabilities and local technical support, we aim to equip packaging customers with the confidence and resources to succeed in the evolving industry.”
Key features and benefits
Engineered for a wide range of film applications and resins, the Dowsil 5-1050 PPA contains a silicone additive in a polyethylene carrier and is supplied as a masterbatch for ease of feeding into existing extrusion processes. This technology has demonstrated effectiveness at an industrial scale.
Key performance benefits include reduced melt fracture and haze in film. It mitigates melt fracture, resulting in smoother surface and better film optics for visual appeal. Then there is die lip buildup reduction, which means less downtime and scrap. The lower die pressure enhances extrusion efficiency.
Other features include food contact safety – complying with European Commission Regulation (EU) 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 174.5. It has versatile incorporation, which means it can be incorporated via dry or melt blending.
With decades of experience in compounding, extrusion, and the integration of silicone additives into plastics, Dow has a long track record of developing innovations that support the packaging industry’s transition toward safer, more sustainable materials.
