New food-grade polypropylene designed for downgauging

Borealis said its Bormod BJ368MO resin can be used to produce food containers for products such as refrigerated salads, margarines, and fresh and frozen dairy products. The food industry is increasingly demanding lighter weight packaging due to the high cost of petroleum, which is the basis of most plastic packaging on the market. Companies are also attempting to become more efficient due to the rising costs of other inputs, such as wheat and dairy ingredients. Using Bormod BJ368MO, processors can achieve up to a 20 per cent increase in productivity, while downgauging, Borealis claimed. The grade is based on Borealis' nucleation technology, which allows PP to solidify quicker than normal in the mould. The resulting faster cycle times are increased by the the anti-static additives that ensure de-moulding even at temperatures as high as 90°C, Borealis claimed. The mix of flow and strength also allows processors to use injection moulding to achieve packaging with walls as thin as 0.3 mm without compromising on impact resistance, Borealis claimed. The company estimates that Bormod's downgauging potential can deliver material savings and weight reduction of between 10 to 20 per cent, thus cutting down on costs. The material has a high impact resistance, which is maintained at temperatures as low as -20°C. Impact resistance reduces the chance of breakage during transport and allows an warehouse managers to increase the stacking during storage. Bormod BJ368MO also helps packaging to retain its original appearance and to preserve the packaged foodstuffs, Borealis stated. "Colour independent shrinkage and very good dimensional stability simplify production, while anti-static additives eliminate dust collection during processing and when in final use,"​ Borealis claimed.