Toray Plastics launches two ultra-high-barrier PET films

Rhode-Island-based Toray Plastics (America), via its advancements in barrier technology, has launched “creative materials solutions” that deliver exceptional barrier performance – especially for longer shelf life and e-commerce applications – while also lowering the total cost of ownership of flexible packaging. The company’s new Lumirror MK61HB and PA1HB barrier-coated polyester films are “robust new alternatives” to foil, PVdC-coated PET and OPP, and AlOx-coated PET. MK61HB metallized-barrier PET offers outstanding oxygen and moisture barrier protection, while PA1HB clear-barrier PET delivers outstanding oxygen barrier protection. Both also offer superior aroma protection. The foundation of these new films is Toray’s proprietary PET, which is known for its excellent thermal stability and modified print surface. The biaxial orientation and barrier coating of the new films are conducted inline in one, streamlined production step – a process that’s unique in the films industry, said Toray. No chlorine is used in its proprietary coating formula (a chlorine-free coating is an important feature for the CPG seeking an alternative to PVdC). The metallizing of MK61HB is also done by Toray. If hermetic seals are required, the manufacturer can integrate a sealant layer through extrusion coating. The barrier coating may be metallized and extrusion coated, depending on the customer’s barrier, sealant, and aesthetic requirements.

“The market and chemistries for film barrier technology are changing,” said Kerri Boyens, Product Manager of New Product Development at Toray Plastics (America). “The increasing popularity of ‘grab and go’ healthful and artisanal foods, evolving distribution channels that create the need for longer shelf life, and the growth of online shopping for everyday consumables, are major market shifts facing CPGs. Improved oxygen, moisture, and aroma-barrier films, such as MK61HB and PA1HB, that are manufactured with a minimal number of production steps, are smart, versatile solutions.”
Metallized MK61HB and clear-barrier PA1HB are designed for use as an outer layer in a two-ply lamination, or as the middle layer in a three-ply lamination. Their adhesion layer is suitable for laminating, adhesive coating, or printing. They’re ideal for regular and stand-up pouches, as well as lidding. Applications include gas-flushed items such as coffee, traditional and healthful snacks, cookies and other baked goods, confectionery items, dry and powdered foods, and pet food. They’re also excellent for health, beauty, personal care, household goods and detergent packaging.