Cast film is usually made in a thickness range of 20 to 200 microns, and is used in applications that require superior optical properties such as gloss, transparency, surface smoothness, planarity and good tear resistance. Cast film is produced predominantly using polypropylene (PP), either in monofilm applications or with other materials, to combine a wide range of properties (e.g., barrier). Low density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) are also used in applications that require excellent clarity, toughness and flexibility.
Benefits and Applications
Cast film can be plain or embossed, colored or clear for office supplies (e.g. folders), and is used in decorative protection film and in semi-rigid packaging (e.g., folded boxes for office and household storage).
Customers can choose from a variety of PP (Homo-, Raco- and Heco-PP) and PE (LDPE and LLDPE) for use in an array of cast film applications:
- Food packaging (baked goods, candy wrap, cheese and meat)
- Non-food packaging (dry goods, shirts, decorative)
- Embossed/matted products (diapers, stationery, aprons, gloves, table cloths, curtains)
- Industrial film (wood coating, automotive)
- Laminating / converter grade film
LyondellBasell’s PE and PP resins are the preferred materials for use in film production due to their excellent thermoforming, low temperature sealing, elasticity and impact-resistant properties. PP-based flexible packaging is sterilizable, an important asset in pharmaceutical and medical packaging.
Properties
Our new Moplen PP homopolymers and random copolymers, based on LyondellBasell’s latest catalyst technology, can provide excellent cast film quality and processability. Other specialty polymers are also available that facilitate the development of new, unique properties in terms of stiffness (Adstif high crystallinity homopolymers), softness (Adflex and Softell resins) and sealing (Adsyl resins).
The LyondellBasell range also includes exceptionally transparent Metocene PP resins for use in film requiring superior optics and high impact resistance, and Moplen PP resins for use in puncture resistant film.
Technical Information
More information about our wide range of products available for cast film processes/applications can be found on our polymers site, where you may register as a new customer or login to access MSDS and RAPIDS documents. From our polymers site, you also may access the e-commerce platforms, Connect and Marketplace.
Adstif, Adflex, Softell, Adsyl, Metocene and Moplen are trademarks owned or used by LyondellBasell group companies. Trademarks Adstif, Adflex, Softell, Adsyl and Moplen are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.