INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe recently announced the launch of a groundbreaking pilot line at its R&D center in Brussels, Belgium. This innovative line will enable the company to work closely with customers in developing recyclable flexible packaging films. This significant investment, worth millions of Euros, has the potential to reduce landfill waste by up to one million tons annually.
The new multilayer blown film line with Machine Direction Orientation (MDO) technology offers customers the opportunity to conduct full-scale tests without interrupting their own production lines. Initial projects are already underway to create new films that can be seamlessly integrated into customer production processes.
Flexible packaging films play a vital role in lightweight and eco-friendly packaging solutions for various products, such as food items. However, the current multi-material packaging films often contain a complex combination of polymers that hinder the recycling process. By simplifying the film structure without compromising performance, the new packaging can be easily recycled to meet EU regulations on packaging waste.
Rob Ingram, CEO of INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices. He expressed excitement about the potential of the new MDO line to drive innovative solutions in the packaging industry and address concerns about plastic waste. The cutting-edge technology provided by Hosokawa Alpine allows for the enhancement of physical and barrier properties of polymer films, expanding their applications in various products.
In summary, INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe’s new pilot line is set to revolutionize flexible packaging by enabling customers to develop recyclable films that meet EU regulations on packaging waste while also addressing concerns about plastic waste. The company’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices is evident through its investment in this groundbreaking technology provided by Hosokawa Alpine.
