Innovia Films has introduced Propafilm CHBM, an ultra-high barrier metallized BOPP film said to provide ‘exceptional’ product protection and improve recyclability by replacing aluminium foil in polypropylene-based laminate structures.
The new film is developed for high-performance flexible mono-material packaging, such as food packaging and stand up and flat pouches. According to the company, Propafilm CHBM has ‘outstanding’ oxygen and barrier properties and ‘excellent’ metal adhesion and thermal stability, helping to preserve freshness, aroma, flavour and product quality through the supply chain.
Innovia Films adds that the film is available in an 18 μm (0.72 mil) gauge featuring enhanced metal adhesion for robust converting performance; high optical density; reverse-side treatment suitable for lamination or surface printing and is designed to support recyclable mono-material PP packaging structures.
Alasdair McEwen, Business Unit Director Packaging EMEA at Innovia Films, comments:
"As brands continue to seek packaging solutions that combine high performance with improved recyclability, Propafilm CHBM represents another significant step forward. […] By delivering the barrier performance traditionally associated with aluminium foil in a polypropylene-based structure, Propafilm CHBM enables our customers to simplify packaging designs without compromising product protection."
Back in June, Innovia Films produced white, cavitated BOPP film using PureCycle’s recycled polypropylene resin, unlocking over 40% post-consumer recycled content for food-contact applications. The film is said to offer mechanical performance and moisture barrier properties alongside opacity, printability and a ‘paper-like’ texture.
A few months later, researchers at Kyushu University claimed to have developed a ‘self-repairing’ flexible film embedded with a natural plant pigment that shifts colour as food spoils, giving consumers a visible signal without opening the package. Apparently, when cut and pressed back together, damage to the film becomes ‘nearly invisible’ within minutes and tensile strength recovers to 99% within two hours.
