LLDPE-based pelletized calcium carbonate (CaCO3) concentrates utilizing two different viscosity base resins were used to add up to 20 wt% fine-ground, surface-treated CaCO3 as mineral reinforcement to LLDPE and HMW-HDPE films. Film was extruded and converted into institutional can liners on production equipment.
Concentrates based on higher viscosity resins yielded superior impact and tensile performance compared to those based on lower viscosity resins. No problems with dispersion were noted. Slightly higher melt pressure and motor current were observed, but they were still well within typical extrusion process conditions for the type of base resins used.
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