A guide to materials

There are a number of different materials used to produce our products which will be briefly explained on each product page. In addition to this, further information regarding each product specification is also available upon request.

We have put together a list of some of the materials used which may also serve as a handy guide if you are unsure which material to use with your product. The best material for your requirements can be determined by your filling temperature, barrier properties and processes for example. Our Customer Support Team will happily advise which material and/or product is best for your requirements.

A selection of the types of materials we offer through our product range can be found below.

LDPE

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) is produced under high-pressure when ethylene gas polymerises. The material produced is extremely flexible, provides an excellent barrier to water vapour and is particularly versatile. Additives can be introduced to generate smooth, non-blocking and antistatic LDPE. This makes for better handling when inserting in the surrounding container, e.g. barrel, pail or drum. Good for filling below 80°C.

HDPE

High density polyethylene (HDPE) is produced at low pressure and is characterised by its very high density. It is more stable and more resistant to heat than LDPE and is therefore used predominantly for hot fillings at up to 100°C.

Polyamide

Polyamides (PA) are semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymers and characterised by a high level of stability, rigidity and toughness. They have a good chemical resistance and are used for products with a solvent content and hot fillings of up to 180°C.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene (PP) has a higher level of rigidity, hardness and stability than polyethylene. However, it is not as rigid, hard or stable as other plastics, e.g. polyamide. PP is resistant to alcohols, organic solvents and greases. It is suitable for hot fillings of up to 125°C.

Co-extrusion films

Co-extrusion films are made up of several layers of plastic, joined together in the films manufacturing process. Multi-layered films combine the different qualities of individual plastics. Polyamide, for example, contains an oxygen barrier and a chemical barrier. A film made up of polyamide and polyethylene has the characteristics of both components.

Aluminium foils

Aluminium foils consist of one or more layers of polyethylene and aluminium which are combined with each other. The aluminium layer prevents water vapour from entering and stops odours and flavours escaping. Aluminium foils provide a good barrier effect and are particularly suited for hygroscopic goods.

Food Grade

We can offer a wide range of films which are to EU and FDA food grade standards. These include films that can be combined with some of the further specialist properties necessary for the food industry.

Pharmaceutical

A range of films that comply with all levels of the pharmacopoeia regulations. The demands of the Pharmaceutical Industry placed upon us mean we only use films of the highest quality.

Moisture, Light & Gas Barrier

We have a great range of materials which can protect your product from contamination, damage and degradation usually caused by the effects of moisture, light and gases coming into contact with the packed product. These films include aluminium laminated and EVOH based Co-Ex foils.

Conductive

Conductive films are available for use when the product, container and liner need to have a minimum amount of static, thereby preventing risk of a spark which can be a severe health and safety issue.

Anti-Static

When used within an appropriately earthed system our anti-static liners will ensure that any static charge does not build up to unsafe levels.

Solvent Resistance

We have films with a wide range of resistance to solvents including nylon based, which can withstand exposure to solvents over a significant length of time.

Temperature Resistance

Standard LDPE films are safe for use up to 80°C, however, when using our nylon based films the temperature resistance will rise to 180°C.