Barrier film for unit-dose and sample packages launched
The product, the Apex 7862 Barrier Tube Film, is a coextruded film that can have between seven and nine layers, including a barrier layer.
Compared to the alternative laminate system, the co-extruded film cuts out the step of combining two films once they have been produced separately, explained Ampac Flexibles innovation and marketing director Sal Pellingra.
Coextrusion benefits the customer as there are fewer development steps, he said.
Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) is used as the barrier layer which protects the product inside from oxygen in the surrounding environment as well as providing a barrier against aromas and fragrance.
The film can be used to make single-dose packages, for example for hair dye or other personal care products, and has been designed so that the top can be easily ripped off to access the product inside.
Another potential use could be product samples in the personal care, cosmetic and healthcare domains, he said.
Larger sizes and re-sealable tubes
However, the film is not limited for use with small sizes and throwaway sample packs.
“It has been originally designed for single use but you could put a cap on it and make it into a tube,” Pellingra told CosmeticsDesign.com USA.
There are also ways to reclose the pack without putting a cap on, he said, referencing one of the company’s customers which had developed a way of folding back the top after it had been ripped open.
“This could then be used by cosmetics companies who want to give more than one dose in a sample pack, such as make-up or hand lotion,” Pellingra added.
