 "DSM's Akulon XS polyamide is used in flexible packaging films")
DSM, the Dutch science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials, will expand production capacity for Akulon XS at its facility in Emmen, the Netherlands, in 2016. It will meet the strong-growing demand for Akulon XS, a new polyamide 6 (PA6) developed specifically for blown films used in flexible food packaging.
“Demand for barrier films for flexible food packaging continues to rise in response to the growing need to reduce food waste and for longer food shelf-life. This latest expansion in Akulon XS helps to address these demands and underpins our commitment to developing sustainable solutions for industry and society,” said Danilo Fioravante, global business director - Akulon, Novamid, EcoPaXX at DSM.
The barrier properties and mechanical strength of conventional PA6 are ideal for flexible films used in food packaging. However, its high crystallisation speed can be restrictive. Processors have to either compromise on productivity, or blend with special amorphous polyamides or polyamide copolymers, reducing cost efficiency and properties.
DSM’s Akulon XS resolves the issue as it crystallises much more slowly than conventional PA6 giving processors improved performance and productivity gains without the need for expensive blending. This makes it easier and more cost effective for processors to make blown films for flexible food packaging while retaining the unique barrier and mechanical properties of polyamide 6.
