ExxonMobil Signature Polymers has developed two monomaterial polyethylene film formulations for hygiene compression packaging, aimed at reducing film thickness and enabling the use of post-consumer recycled content without changing existing packing operations.
The development addresses a common challenge for hygiene packaging converters: producing films that support downgauging, recycled content and recyclability while maintaining machinability and package performance, especially when post-consumer recycled material is used.
The formulations are based on Exceed Tough+ m 0518 polyethylene, combined with ExxonMobil HD 6207FL and/or ExxonMobil LD 07523 polymers. According to the company, the structures use only three polyethylene grades and can incorporate up to 35% post-consumer recycled content.
Exceed Tough+ m 0518 is used to support film toughness and puncture resistance. When combined with ExxonMobil HD 6207FL, the formulation is designed to provide stiffness and creep resistance, helping the package retain dimensional stability during and after the packaging process. ExxonMobil LD 07523 can be added in smaller quantities to adjust processability and optical properties.
The films were produced on lines at an ExxonMobil facility. They were then converted on Hudson-Sharp’s Apollo wicket machine and later formed and sealed using Optima’s machinery.
During trials, the two polyethylene film formulations demonstrated sealability, side cutting and punching, machine output, fast changeovers and machinability on Optima equipment. The films also showed sufficient stiffness to prevent elongation during handling and a coefficient of friction suitable for grippers.
The resulting films are intended for hygiene compression packs where reduced film thickness, recycled content and package integrity are required. ExxonMobil said the films can support bagging at high speeds without operational changes to end-user machine settings. The company also stated that printability and optical properties can support product presentation on shelf.
The development reflects continuing converter interest in thinner PE structures for high-volume hygiene packaging applications and retail distribution needs.