Dow unveils alternative to fluoropolymer-based PPA for film packaging

Dow launched DOWSIL 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid (PPA), designed to address the growing demand for film packaging manufactured without fluoropolymer-based PPAs.

Dow’s new DOWSIL 5-1050 PPA addresses the growing demand for film packaging.

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.

“With DOWSIL 5-1050 PPA, we’ve applied our technical experience in silicone and polyethylene materials to offer a regulatory-compliant option that doesn’t compromise on performance,” said Mubashir Ansari, Technical Service & Development Scientist at Dow.

Engineered for a wide range of film applications and resins, 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 of DOWSIL 5-1050 PPA include:

• Reduced melt fracture and haze in film: Mitigates melt fracture resulting in smoother surface and better film optics for visual appeal.

• Die lip buildup reduction: Less downtime and scrap

• Lower die pressure: Enhances extrusion efficiency

• Food contact safety: Complies with European Commission Regulation (EU) 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 174.5

• Versatile incorporation: Can be incorporated via dry or melt blending