Pro-fax EP390S high impact polypropylene copolymer (opaque) resin and Clyrell EC140R polyolefin (transparent) resin are now available in North America to producers of injection molded tubs, trays and cups ranging from 4-ounces to 1.75-quart (1.65 liter). Both grades can withstand microwave temperatures and are dishwasher safe.
Pro-fax EP390S offers high (35 dg/min) melt flow with exceptional drop test characteristics.
Clyrell EC140R provides an unprecedented combination of random and impact copolymer advantages. The resin exhibits good transparency, good impact, high gloss and high melt flow (30 dg/min) properties, as well as outstanding resistance to stress whitening.
Additionally, containers produced using Pro-fax EP390S and Clyrell EC140R can take advantage of in-mold labeling technology. This technology enables labels to be printed directly onto polypropylene film and other flexible label structures. The end result is improved graphic reproduction, when compared to paper-based containers or labels typically used for customer frozen food packaging for ice cream and other food products.
“Food marketers want to create more value for their product at the point-of-purchase. These new polypropylene alternatives -- coupled with an in-mold label -- can help them achieve the differentiation they desire,” said McKeeman.
Both grades also offer excellent “snap fit” for lids -- even at freezer temperatures. Optional tamper-evident breakaway t
abs can also be engineered into the lid to produce an additional differentiating feature, according to McKeeman.
McKeeman added that functional and/or marketing advantages for frozen food processors who are currently using paper-based structures include:
• Wider shape alternatives
• Container has no seams which minimizes leakers
• Ability to view the frozen food product via transparent properties of Clyrell EC140R
• Superior “snap fit” lids over current paperboard containers
• Reduced susceptibility to odor absorption
“These resins can be used to produce a variety of customer packaging applications for frozen dessert foods such as ice cream, toppings and mousse as well as fruit and meat products,” said McKeeman.
Basell is the world's largest producer of polypropylene and advanced polyolefin products, a leading supplier of polyethylene and catalysts, and a global leader in the development and licensing of polypropylene and polyethylene processes. Basell, together with its joint ventures, has manufacturing facilities around the world and sells products in more than 120 countries. Additional information about Basell is available at www.basell.com.
For more information contact Michelle Harrell, Basell Corporate Communications, at +1 410 996 1366, +1 302 438 6574 or michelle.harrell@basell.com or Sophia Dilberakis, SD Communications, +1 312 787 5800, sophiad@att.net
