High density polyethylene (HDPE) resins were produced via the multi-reactor, Mitsui, stirred slurry process to give a `four corners' type of product matrix with high and low molecular weights (MW) and broad and narrow molecular weight distributions (MWDs). Density was kept constant. Film processing and physical properties - including oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor transmission rates - are presented. Lower MW and narrower MWD favor better barrier properties. The best barrier HDPE resin was blended with mLLDPE and films blown from these blends demonstrated the potential for application specific film strength and optical property tailoring while maintaining high barrier performance.
1. Michiels, D. J., “Fresh Produce: Packaging Film's Fastest Growing Market”, SPE Polyolefins IX Conference Proceedings, 1995, p. 553.
2.
2. Culter, J. D., “Controlling HDPE Film Barrier Properties Through Polymer Choice and Processing Conditions”, Food, Cosmetics and Drug Packaging, Vol. 171, 1997.
3.
3. Culter, J. D., “Improving Barrier Through Orientation in Processing”, Journal of Plastic Film & Sheeting, Vol. 1, No. 215, 1985.
4.
4. Ibid.
5.
5. Krohn, J., Tate, R. and Jordy, D., “Factors Affecting the Permeability of PE Blown Films”, SPE ANTEC `97 Conference Proceedings, 1997, p. 1654.
