Compound LLDPE granule for stretch film
Compound LLDPE granule for stretch film :Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) granules are widely used in manufacturing stretch films due to their excellent mechanical properties, elasticity, and stretchability. The compound LLDPE granules specifically formulated for stretch film are designed to meet the requirements of high-performance wrapping materials used in industries like logistics, food packaging, and agriculture. Below is an overview of the key aspects of such granules:
Key Features
- High Stretchability:
- LLDPE granules for stretch films offer elongation of up to 300-500%, making them ideal for pallet wrapping.
- These granules enable films to stretch without tearing, ensuring secure packaging.
- Tensile Strength:
- High tensile strength allows the film to withstand heavy loads without breaking.
- Clarity and Gloss:
- LLDPE compounds provide excellent optical properties, including transparency and surface gloss, which are essential for aesthetic and functional purposes.
- Tackiness:
- These granules are often compounded with tackifiers to create films with self-adhesive properties for effective cling during wrapping.
- Tear Resistance:
- Films made from these granules offer high tear resistance, which is vital for ensuring durability during handling and transport.
- Low Melting Point:
- Allows for easier processing and extrusion during film production.
Applications
- Industrial Pallet Wraps: Secure and stabilize goods during transportation and storage.
- Food Packaging: Hygienic wrapping of perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and meat.
- Silage Films: Used in agriculture for hay and fodder wrapping.
Types of LLDPE Granules for Stretch Films
- Virgin LLDPE Granules:
- Made from pure polymer resins, offering consistent quality and high performance.
- Ideal for applications requiring premium optical and mechanical properties.
- Recycled LLDPE Granules:
- Eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- Suitable for non-critical applications.
- Blended or Modified Compounds:
- Customized formulations containing additives like tackifiers, UV stabilizers, or anti-block agents.
- Tailored to specific industrial requirements.
Additives in LLDPE Compounds
- Tackifiers: Enhance the self-adhesion properties of stretch films.
- UV Stabilizers: Protect the film from degradation under sunlight, especially for outdoor applications.
- Anti-Blocking Agents: Prevent layers of the film from sticking to each other during unwinding.
- Slip Agents: Reduce friction for better handling during wrapping.
Processing Guidelines
- Extrusion Process:
- Granules are melted and extruded into thin layers using blown film or cast film technology.
- LLDPE’s low melting point and excellent processability make it suitable for high-speed production lines.
- Temperature Range:
- Processing temperatures typically range between 160°C to 200°C, depending on the compound formulation.
Advantages Over Traditional LDPE
- Higher puncture and tear resistance.
- Greater flexibility and elongation capabilities.
- Improved load stability due to better cling properties.
- Reduced thickness (downgauging) without compromising strength, lowering material costs.
Popular Grades
- C4 LLDPE (Butene-based): Cost-effective, suitable for general-purpose applications.
- C6 LLDPE (Hexene-based): Offers better mechanical properties and puncture resistance.
- C8 LLDPE (Octene-based): Premium-grade material for high-stretch applications.
Top Manufacturers of LLDPE Granules
- ExxonMobil: Offers brands like Exceed™ and Enable™.
- Dow Chemicals: Known for its ELITE™ and ATTANE™ grades.
- SABIC: Produces high-performance LLDPE granules for diverse applications.
- LyondellBasell: Offers sustainable LLDPE solutions for film applications.
Considerations When Choosing LLDPE Granules
- Application Needs: Determine if your stretch film requires high elongation, puncture resistance, or tackiness.
- Processing Equipment: Compatibility with blown or cast film extrusion processes.
- Cost and Sustainability: Balance between virgin and recycled granules based on budget and environmental goals.
- Custom Additives: Tailor the formulation to include UV resistance or anti-block properties as required.
