INEOS Achieves Milestone as First Polymer Producer to Develop Recyclable Flexible Films Technology

INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe has recently commissioned a new pilot line to develop recyclable flexible packaging films in collaboration with customers. This investment, worth millions of Euros, is expected to reduce landfill waste by up to one million tons annually.

Located at the INEOS R&D centre in Brussels, Belgium, the new multilayer, blown film line with Machine Direction Orientation (MDO) allows customers to conduct large-scale tests without disrupting their own production lines. Initial projects are already underway to create new films that can be seamlessly integrated into customer operations.

Flexible films offer a lightweight and eco-friendly packaging solution for goods, extending the shelf life of food products. However, the current multi-material packaging films pose recycling challenges due to the combination of different polymers. By simplifying the film structure while maintaining performance, the new packaging can be easily recycled in accordance with EU regulations.

CEO of INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe, Rob Ingram, acknowledges the importance of sustainable packaging solutions in addressing plastic waste concerns. He emphasizes the company’s commitment to working with stakeholders across the value chain to promote a circular economy and develop environmentally-friendly alternatives for consumers. The investment in the new MDO line opens up possibilities for creating fully recyclable films that meet industry standards.

The cutting-edge technology provided by Hosokawa Alpine is instrumental in enhancing the physical and barrier properties of polymer films through heating and stretching processes. This advancement enables the films to be utilized in a variety of product applications, further demonstrating the versatility and potential impact of the new pilot line.