HDPE Barrier Extrusion Coating and Lamination for Flexible Packaging Structures

Multi-layer structures are widely used in the packaging industry to improve or achieve a range of properties. Each layer of the structure has a specific purpose for the final film; working in unison with the other layers to achieve the desired packaging specifications. The resins used and where they are placed in the film structure varies the final performance of the critical properties for the film. Multi-layer films are being designed to provide barrier properties for packaging films. This presentation will explore and compare the performance of a variety of multi-layer extrusion laminates and extrusion coated films utilizing some advanced laboratory modeling tools to predict the WVTR and OTR performance in the film structure. The goal is to develop a better understanding as to how multi-layer extrusion laminates and coating structures effect property performance while improving the sustainability of the final products.

Learning Outcomes 

1. Specify proper resin and processing choice to achieve the desired barrier properties in extrusion coating/lamination
2. Reconstruct/re-evaluate current film structures to be more sustainable

ADTS Engineer 
LyondellBasell

Emily Silber is a chemical engineering graduate with 6 years of technical service experience.  While studying at the University of Dayton, she worked in aviation focusing on metallography and environmental safety.  She is the co-author of several industry papers, including Mechanisms and Kinetics of the Oxygen Exchange Reaction with CeO2 at High Temperatures in the Solid State Ionics journal, A Cast Film Comparison of Autoclave and Tubular Clarity LDPE (AMI PE Films 2019), Enhancements in Multi-Layer Barrier Films (AMI PE Films 2020) and HDPE Barrier Extrusion Lamination for Flexible Packaging (TAPPI 2022).  Her experience in varying materials and research brought her to the polymer industry where she hopes to continue expanding her horizons.