Space Age Packaging

Purpose and goal

The project has carried out a study with laminating of packaging board with liquid crystalline polymer on a pilot scale. Unfortunately, the material showed delamination tendencies after a long period of storage. Different strategies to correct the problem were tested. The conclusion of these experiments was that some process development is required to be able to use liquid crystalline polymers for laminating packaging board for trays.

Expected results and effects

Two pilot extrusion trials were carried out during the project. These indicated process-related problems while using liquid crystalline polymers. They also showed that liquid crystalline polymers have a good temperature stability and that they can be recycled with PE. The process-related problems have been identified and these must be resolved before a prototype can be developed.

Planned approach and implementation

The idea for the project came from a doctoral dissertation on material- and barrier-properties of liquid crystalline polymers. It was on this basis that the project was formulated. A detailed project plan was developed at the beginning of the project. The plan was followed with some changes. Two pilot extrusions were performed. These indicated process-related problems with this material type. These difficulties have been identified for future projects on similar materials.