Nova Chemicals Corp. announced the launch of polyethylene (PE) resins that incorporate a “next-generation” non-fluorinated polymer processing aid (NF-PPA). The Surpass, Sclair and Novapol PE resins with new NF-PPA deliver comparable performance to legacy fluoropolymer PPA technology, helping manufacturers meet global regulatory compliance standards with minimal disruptions in production.
New PE products from Nova include latest non-fluorinated processing aids. Source: Nova Chemicals
Nova Chemicals originally introduced PE resin with fluoropolymer-free PPA in 2022. Working closely with film manufacturers over the last three years, ongoing research led to the new NF-PPA formulation, which Nova says provides enhanced process stability for consistent performance, including frost line control, reduced die-lip buildup, and predictable slip and coefficient of friction properties. It also delivers melt fracture clearing and film optics comparable to fluoropolymer-based PPA technologies, helping converters and brand owners adapt to evolving legislation that eliminates the use of fluoropolymers, such as the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation in the EU.
“Our next-generation NF-PPA underscores Nova Chemicals’ focus on solving critical challenges for our customers through continuous innovation,” says Owen Lightbody, leader, technical services at Nova Chemicals. “By anticipating change and proactively developing new solutions, we are streamlining operations for converters and brand owners navigating this important transition.”
Nova Chemicals has obtained broad regulatory approvals for the NF-PPA resin technology in North America, Latin America, the EU and China, with additional global approvals underway as legislation evolves.
Nine grades of PE, including FP120-D, FP120-C, SPs116-C, SPs116-D, VPsK914-C, VPsK914-D and PF-Y821-BP, are currently available with the new NF-PPA for use across various blown-film applications including food packaging, e-commerce and heavy-duty sacks.