The tightened global regulations against per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are forcing industry to explore new avenues in polymer processing. Clariant has responded to this by developing AddWorks PPA 101 FG, a PFAS-free polymer processing aid for polyolefin extrusion. In PE blown and cast films, it resolves the issue of melt fractures – referred to in technical jargon as „sharkskin“ – and prevents build-up at the die.
Fluoropolymer-based processing aids have long been the standard solution in PE film extrusion. However, the PFAS they contain, known as „forever chemicals“, pose a significant environmental and health risk. Regulatory authorities in the EU, the USA and Asia are increasingly restricting the use of PFAS, forcing the industry to find alternatives.
Unlike fluoropolymer-based PPA, AddWorks PPA 101 FG contains neither PFAS nor silicone or inorganic substances, is non-hazardous and unlabelled, and has comprehensive food contact approvals in accordance with FDA, EFSA, Mercosur, Chinese GB standards and Japanese regulations.
For packaging films and more
The new product is suitable for a wide range of applications. These include LLDPE blown films for packaging, agricultural films and construction films.
Clariant's new product offers several advantages: it effectively eliminates sharkskin, prevents die build-up and improves the film surface without impairing the optical or mechanical properties of the film. Particularly noteworthy is that it does not cause silicone contamination, which is especially advantageous for film manufacturers working with corona treatments or adhesive laminations.
Diederik Goyvaerts, Market Manager at Clariant Additives, emphasises: „Regulatory pressure is the driver, but the product must deliver the required performance. AddWorks PPA 101 FG overcomes the challenges of melt fracture and die build-up without compromising film properties, and offers film manufacturers the opportunity to eliminate PFAS.“
SourceClariant
