Mondi, a company specializing in the manufacturing of sustainable paper and packaging solutions, has created a recyclable polypropylene film that is ideal for the thermoforming of flexible films for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and vacuum packaging, which is known for its ability to extend the shelf life of products such as meat and cheese.
The new, co-extruded material includes a top and bottom web, with an internal barrier layer that comprises less than 5% of the entire structure, meaning it qualifies as a mono-material construction and is fully recyclable in existing waste streams. The Aachen, German-based Institute for Recyclability and Product Responsibility –– has independently certified that both the top and bottom webs of this construction have the highest qualification “Class AAA” in recyclability.
The previous multi-material construction rendered the previous packages unrecyclable and also resulted in a much higher carbon footprint as confirmed by life cycle analyses.
“Mondi’s view is that packaging should always be fit-for-purpose –– paper where possible, plastic when useful –– and sustainable by design. The challenge with this project was to maintain the functionality that is key to such applications, including excellent oxygen and moisture barriers, and high puncture resistance –– while also enhancing the package’s recyclability. The latter factor was vital as Mondi continues to support the principles of a circular economy,” Thomas Kahl, project Manager at EcoSolutions for Mondi Consumer Packaging explains.
In summary, Mondi customers who use this product can:
- thermoform a fully recyclable PP film that retains all the functionality of the previous, multi-material construction
- achieve great sealability in the resulting package due to both the top and bottom web being the same, compatible material
- benefit from excellent optical properties and an outstanding gas barrier that provides for longer shelf life of the packed foodstuffs.
Users also benefit by tapping into Mondi’s years of experience in food packaging, with Mondi’s plant in Styria offering extensive expertise high-barrier applications for food packaging.
