Recyclable polyethylene film for the packaging of hygiene articles

Abstract

The invention relates to a multilayer polyethylene film which comprises or substantially consists of an outer sealing layer (A) comprising an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (at) and optionally an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (a2); a middle layer (B) comprising an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (b1), an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (b2) and optionally an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (b3); and an outer sealing layer (C) comprising an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (c1) and optionally an ethylene homopolymer or copolymer (c2). The polyethylene film has a total layer thickness of at most 50 μm. The middle layer (B) contains, if any at all, a total of less than 15 wt.% of propylene homopolymers or copolymers relative to the total weight of the middle layer (B). Optionally, the sealing layer (A) is at least partially coated with a release coating.

Description

[0106] Preferably, the polyethylene film according to the invention has a tear propagation force in the machine direction (MD) DIN53363 tear propagation force of at least 2.0 N; preferably at least 3.0 N, more preferably at least 4.0 N, still more preferably at least 5.0 N, most preferably at least 6.0 N and in particular at least 6.5 N. Preferably, this tear propagation force is achieved at a total layer thickness of the polyethylene film of 20 pm. If the polyethylene film has a total layer thickness depending therefrom, the numerical minimum tear propagation forces are to be converted accordingly.

[0107] Optionally, the sealing layer (A) is at least partially coated with a release coating on its outer side. In preferred embodiments, the coating with the release coating covers the entire surface. In preferred embodiments, the coating with the release coating covers part of the surface.

[0108] Preferably, the release coating has a basis weight of at most 0.65 g / m2; preferably at most 0.60 g / m2, more preferably at most 0.55 g / m2, still more preferably at most 0.50 g / m2, most preferably at most 0.45 g / m2, and in particular at most 0.40 g / m2; preferably at most 0.35 g / m2, more preferably at most 0.30 g / m2, still more preferably at most 0.25 g / m2, most preferably at most 0.20 g / m2.

[0109] Preferably, the release coating is based on at least one cured polysiloxane selected from the group consisting of - addition-crosslinked, preferably metal-catalyzed addition-crosslinked, condensation-crosslinked, free-radically crosslinked and / or cationically crosslinked polysiloxanes; preferably free-radically crosslinked polysiloxanes; and / or - polydialkylsiloxanes, preferably polydimethylsiloxanes; and polyalkylarylsiloxanes, preferably polymethylphenylsiloxanes; preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polysiloxanes; more preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polydialkylsiloxanes, preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polydimethylsiloxanes; or chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polyalkylarylsiloxanes, preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polymethylphenylsiloxanes.

[0110] Preferably, the polyethylene film is blown-film coextruded.

[0111] In preferred embodiments, the sealing layer (A) is at least partially printed with a printed image on its outer side. The printed image can cover the entire surface or part of the surface of the sealing layer (A).

[0112] If the sealing layer (A) is additionally at least partially coated with a release coating on its outer side and if there are surface sections which are both printed with a printed image and coated with a release coating, the printed image is preferably arranged between the outer side of the sealing layer (A) and the release coating.

[0113] In preferred embodiments, the sealing layer (C) is at least partially printed with a printed image on its outer side. The printed image can cover the entire surface or part of the surface of the sealing layer (C).

[0114] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of the above-described polyethylene film according to the invention as packaging material, preferably for packaging hygiene articles; more preferably sanitary napkins or tampon applicators.

[0115] A further aspect of the invention relates to a package comprising the above-described polyethylene film according to the invention as packaging material.

[0116] A further aspect of the invention relates to a package comprising a hygiene article as packaged goods, preferably a sanitary napkin or a tampon applicator, and the above-described polyethylene film according to the invention as packaging material.

[0117] The following examples serve to illustrate the invention but are not to be construed as limiting:

[0118] In each case, one of the following two embossings was selected: M5: low embossing height for matting the surface; thickness: 17 pm, embossing height: 20-45 pm; A3: pyramidal embossing with a greater embossing height than M5. Thickness: 35-40 pm, embossing height: 60-100 pm.

[0119] Inventive Example B1:

[0120] A three-layer polyethylene film B1 according to the invention was produced by blown film coextrusion. The polyethylene film according to the invention had a total density of 0.963 g / cm3, a layer thickness ratio of 1:2:1 and the following layer structure (M5 embossed): # wt.% Polymer Density g / cm3 (A) 50.0 (ai) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (a2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch2 0.920 (B) 43.3 (bi) LDPE 0.923 20.0 (b2) LLDPE 0.940 32.0 (b3) HDPE 0.955 4.7 Masterbatch3 1.980 (C) 50.0 (ci) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (c2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch2 0.920 1 LDPE, with 70% chalk (prevents blocking, improves whiteness and opacity) 2 LDPE with <10% PDMS 3 LDPE with 70% TiO2 (improves whiteness and opacity)

[0121] Polyethylene film B1 contained exclusively LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE as polymers, i.e. exclusively ethylene homo- or copolymers. Moreover, the polyethylene film contained only a small proportion of inorganic constituents, so that it is not only mono-material but also, overall, very readily recyclable.

[0122] Inventive Example B2a,b:

[0123] A three-layer polyethylene film B2 according to the invention was produced by blown film coextrusion. The polyethylene film according to the invention had a total density of 0.962 g / cm3, a layer thickness ratio of 1:2:1 and the following layer structure (M5 embossed): # wt.% Polymer Density g / cm3 (A) 50.0 (ai) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (a2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch 0.920 (B) 15.3 (bi) LDPE 0.923 20.0 (b2) LLDPE 0.940 60.0 (b3) LLDPE 0.955 4.7 Masterbatch 1.980 (C) 50.0 (ci) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (c2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch 0.920

[0124] Polyethylene film B2a,b contained exclusively LDPE and LLDPE as polymers, i.e. exclusively ethylene homo- or copolymers. Moreover, the polyethylene film contained only a small proportion of inorganic constituents, so that it is not only mono-material but also, overall, very readily recyclable. For polyethylene films B2a and B2b, the structure and composition of the layers were in each case identical; only the total layer thickness was different.

[0125] Inventive Example B3a,b:

[0126] A three-layer polyethylene film B3a,b according to the invention was produced by blown film coextrusion. The polyethylene film according to the invention had a total density of 0.970 g / cm3, a layer thickness ratio of 1:2:1 and the following layer structure (A3 embossed): # wt.% Polymer Density g / cm3 (A) 50.0 (ai) LDPE 0.923 50.0 (a2) LLDPE 0.940 (B) 15.0 (bi) LDPE 0.923 20.0 (b2) LLDPE 0.940 51.0 (b3) LLDPE 0.955 14.0 Masterbatch 1.980 (C) 50.0 (ci) LDPE 0.923 50.0 (c2) LLDPE 0.940

[0127] Polyethylene film B3a,b contained exclusively LDPE and LLDPE as polymers, i.e. exclusively ethylene homo- or copolymers. Moreover, the polyethylene film contained no inorganic constituents whatsoever in the two outer layers (A) and (C), so that it is not only mono-material but also, overall, very readily recyclable. For polyethylene films B3a and B3b, the structure and composition of the layers were in each case identical; only the total layer thickness was different.

[0128] Comparative Example V1:

[0129] A three-layer comparative film V1 was produced by blown film coextrusion. The comparative film had a total density of 0.964 g / cm3, a layer thickness ratio of 1:2:1 and the following layer structure: # wt.% Polymer Density g / cm3 (A) 50.0 (ai) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (a2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch2 0.920 (B) 30.0 (b2) LLDPE 0.940 45.3 (b3) HDPE 0.955 20.0 PP random copolymer 0.900 4.7 Masterbatch3 1.980 (C) 50.0 (ci) LDPE 0.923 41.0 (c2) LLDPE 0.940 7.5 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.5 Masterbatch2 0.920 1 LDPE, with 70% chalk (prevents blocking, improves whiteness and opacity) 2 LDPE with <10% PDMS 3 LDPE with 70% TiO2 (improves whiteness and opacity)

[0130] Polyolefin film V1 contained considerable amounts of polypropylene copolymer in the middle layer (B), which is why it is neither mono-material nor readily recyclable.

[0131] Comparative Example V2:

[0132] A three-layer comparative film V2 was produced by blown film coextrusion. The comparative film had a total density of 0.960 g / cm3, a layer thickness ratio of 1:2:1 and the following layer structure: # wt.% Polymer Density g / cm3 (A) 47.0 (ai) LDPE 0.923 42.0 (a2) LLDPE 0.940 10.0 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.0 Masterbatch4 0.940 (B) 43.3 (bi) LDPE 0.923 20.0 (b2) LLDPE 0.940 32.0 PP impact copolymer 0.897 4.7 Masterbatch3 1.980 (C) 47.0 (ci) LDPE 0.923 42.0 (c2) LLDPE 0.940 10.0 Masterbatch1 1.800 1.0 Masterbatch4 0.940 1 LDPE, with 70% chalk (prevents blocking, improves whiteness and opacity) 3 LDPE with 70% TiO2 (improves whiteness and opacity) 4 LDPE with 5% PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

[0133] Polyolefin film V2 contained considerable amounts of polypropylene copolymer in the middle layer (B), which is why it is neither mono-material nor readily recyclable.

[0134] Properties:

[0135] Numerous properties of the polyethylene films B1, B2a, B2b, B3a and B3b according to the invention and of the two comparative films V1 and V2 were determined. The results are summarized in the following table: V1 V2 B1 B2a B2b B3a B3b Thickness M 17 17 17 17 15 40 35 DIN527-3 machine direction (MD): - E modulus [N / mm2] 381.4 294 352.1 304.3 310.1 - Force at 1% elongation [N] 1.7 1.4 1.6 1.4 1.3 - Force at 2.5% elongation [N] 3.6 3.2 3.6 3.1 2.9 - Force at 5% elongation [N] 5.1 5.1 5.4 4.7 4.7 7.9 7.5 - Force at 10% elongation [N] 6.2 6.9 6.9 6.3 6.5 9.9 9.5 - Force at 25% elongation [N] 7.7 10.1 10.1 9.3 9.6 12.7 12.4 - Elongation at break [%] 234.9 147.3 114.4 109.8 97.1 374 404.7 - Breaking force [N] 10.3 13 13.3 11.6 11.3 25.3 19.1 - Tensile strength [N / mm2] 10.3 37.5 40 36.8 39 40.1 36.4 - Total thickness [gm] 21 23 22 17 19 38.3 34.7 DIN527-3 cross direction (CD): - E modulus [N / mm2] 522 368.4 454.1 390.4 398.3 - Force at 1% elongation [N] 2.1 1.6 2 1.9 1.5 - Force at 2.5% elongation [N] 4 3.1 3.8 3.5 3.0 - Force at 5% elongation [N] 5 3.9 4.8 4.4 3.8 9.2 7.5 - Force at 10% elongation [N] 4.6 4 4.2 3.7 3.4 9.7 8.6 - Force at 25% elongation [N] 3.6 3.1 3.3 3.1 2.7 6.7 6.9 - Elongation at break [%] 766.9 693 775 615.6 671.4 682 592.9 - Breaking force [N] 7.3 6 6.5 6.0 6.2 18 10.9 - Tensile strength [N / mm2] 25.3 18.1 20 17.5 21.8 30.0 20.8 - Total thickness [gm] 19 22 22 17 19 DIN53356 tear propagation force, trouser: - Machine direction (MD) [N] 0.3 0.1 7.3 0.1 0.1 1.1 0.8 - Cross direction (CD) [N] 5.2 4.2 4.4 4.3 3.3 DIN53363 tear propagation force, trapezoid: - Machine direction (MD) [N] 4.2 4.2 6.9 3 3 - Cross direction (CD) [N] 11.1 12.3 11.3 11.6 11.7 Shrinkage, oil bath, 1 min: - Machine direction (MD) at 120°C [%] -13 -13 -16 -12 -20 - Cross direction (CD) at 120°C [%] +2.5 +2.5 +2.5 +3.5 +4 - Machine direction (MD) at 130°C [%] -37.5 -22.5 -40 -22 -20 - Cross direction (CD) at 130°C [%] -3 +1 -3 +1 +2.5 - Machine direction (MD) at 140°C [%] -67.5 -25 -65 — -35 - Cross direction (CD) at 140°C [%] -10 +2.5 -5 — 0 Sealing behavior: Process window [°C]: <10 ~5 ~15 ~15 ~15 Punching behavior: Assessment of cut edges me-dium / good medium very good very good very good

[0136] As the experimental data in the above table demonstrate, the polyethylene films according to the invention exhibit a very good tensile strength in the machine direction (MD) combined with a high modulus of elasticity, which is evident in particular from the values of the force at 1%, 2% and 5%.

[0137] Furthermore, the polyethylene films according to the invention exhibit improved sealing behavior, which is evident from the broader temperature range of the processing window. This is particularly surprising insofar as it is not the composition of the two outer sealing layers (A) and (C) that is responsible for this, since it was not changed, but the composition of the middle layer (B), which as such does not form an outer side of the polyethylene film at all.

[0138] In addition, the polyethylene films according to the invention exhibit improved processability, the assessment of which cumulatively takes into account the extrusion output in kg / h and the quality with respect to specks, holes or embossing defects. The two comparative films are characterized by medium processability, a maximum line output not being achieved (<85% of the maximum speed in m / min), since specks, holes and embossing defects occur again and again. In contrast, the polyethylene film according to the invention is characterized by very good processability, the maximum line output being achieved (>98% up to 100% of the maximum speed in m / min), since specks, holes or embossing defects occur only very rarely, if at all.

[0139] Furthermore, the experimental data show that the polyolefin films according to the invention exhibit improved cutting or punching behavior. The cut or punched edges formed during cutting or punching are significantly improved.

Claims

1. A multilayer polyethylene film which comprises or consists essentially of- an outer sealing layer (A) comprising an ethylene homo- or copolymer (a1) and optionally an ethylene homo- or copolymer (a2);- a middle layer (B) comprising an ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1), an ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2) and optionally an ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3); and- an outer sealing layer (C) comprising an ethylene homo- or copolymer (c1) and optionally an ethylene homo- or copolymer (c2);wherein- the polyethylene film has a total layer thickness of at most 50 ^m;- the middle layer (B) contains, if at all, in total less than 15 wt.% of propylene homo- or copolymers, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); and- optionally the sealing layer (A) is at least partially coated with a release coating.

2. The polyethylene film according to claim 1, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymers (a1), (a2), (b1), (b2), (b3), (c1) and (c2) are each independently of one another selected from the group consisting of low-density polyethylene (LDPE, p < 0.945 g / cm3), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE, p < 0.945 g / cm3), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE p > 0.945 g / cm3).

3. The polyethylene film according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the middle layer (B) contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of propylene homo- or copolymers, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no propylene homo-or copolymers at all.

4. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene film contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of propylene homo- or copolymers, based on the total weight of the polyethylene film; preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no propylene homo- or copolymers at all.

5. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (a1) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LDPE; still more preferably LDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.preferably 0.923±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.923±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.923±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.923±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.923±0.001 g / cm3.

7. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (a1) is at least 20 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at least 25 wt.%, more preferably at least 30 wt.%, still more preferably at least 35 wt.%, most preferably at least 40 wt.%, and in particular at least 45 wt.%.

8. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (a1) is at most 80 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at most 75 wt.%, more preferably at most 70 wt.%, still more preferably at least 65 wt.%, most preferably at most 60 wt.%, and in particular at most 55 wt.%.

9. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (a2) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LLDPE; still more preferably LLDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

10. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (a2) is LLDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.940±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.940±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.940±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.940±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.940±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.940±0.001 g / cm3.

11. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (a2) is LLDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the range of 125±6°C; preferably 125±5°C, more preferably 125±4°C, still more preferably 125±3°C, most preferably 125±2°C, and in particular 125±1°C.

12. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (a2) is at least 10 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at least 15 wt.%, more preferably at least 20 wt.%, still more preferably at least 25 wt.%, most preferably at least 30 wt.%, and in particular at least 35 wt.%.

13. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (a2) is at most 70 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at most 65 wt.%, more preferably at most 60 wt.%, still more preferably at least 55 wt.%, most preferably at most 50 wt.%, and in particular at most 45 wt.%.0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LDPE; still more preferably LDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

15. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (b1) is LDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.923±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.923±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.923±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.923±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.923±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.923±0.001 g / cm3.

16. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1) is at least 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at least 20 wt.%, more preferably at least 25 wt.%, still more preferably at least 30 wt.%, most preferably at least 35 wt.%, and in particular at least 40 wt.%.

17. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1) is at most 70 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 65 wt.%, more preferably at most 60 wt.%, still more preferably at least 55 wt.%, most preferably at most 50 wt.%, and in particular at most 45 wt.%.

18. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (b2) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LLDPE; still more preferably LLDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

19. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (b2) is LLDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.940±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.940±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.940±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.940±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.940±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.940±0.001 g / cm3.

20. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (b2) is LLDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the range of 125±6°C; preferably 125±5°C, more preferably 125±4°C, still more preferably 125±3°C, most preferably 125±2°C, and in particular 125±1°C.

21. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2) is at least 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at least 7.5 wt.%, more preferably at least 10 wt.%, still more preferably at least 12.5 wt.%, most preferably at least 15 wt.%, and in particular at least 17.5 wt.%.

22. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2) is at most 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 32.5 wt.%, more preferably at most 30 wt.%, still more preferably at least 27.5 wt.%, most preferably at most 25 wt.%, and in particular at most 22.5 wt.%.

23. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (b3) is selected from HDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.950 to 0.965 g / cm3; more preferably HDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

24. The polyethylene film according to claim 23, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is HDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.955±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.955±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.955±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.955±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.955±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.955±0.001 g / cm3.

25. The polyethylene film according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is HDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the range of 129±6°C; preferably 129±5°C, more preferably 129±4°C, still more preferably 129±3°C, most preferably 129±2°C, and in particular 129±1°C.

26. The polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LLDPE; still more preferably LLDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

27. The polyethylene film according to claim 26, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is LLDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.936±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.936±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.936±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.936±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.936±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.936±0.001 g / cm3.

28. The polyethylene film according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is LLDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the range of 119±6°C; preferably 119±5°C, more preferably 119±4°C, still more preferably 119±3°C, most preferably 119±2°C, and in particular 119±1°C.

29. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is at least 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at least 10 wt.%, more preferably at least 15 wt.%, still more preferably at least 20 wt.%, most preferably at least 25 wt.%, and in particular at least 30 wt.%.

30. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3) is at most 60 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 55 wt.%, more preferably at most 50 wt.%, still more preferably at least 45 wt.%, most preferably at most 40 wt.%, and in particular at most 35 wt.%.

31. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (c1) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LDPE; still more preferably LDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

32. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (c1) is LDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.923±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.923±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.923±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.923±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.923±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.923±0.001 g / cm3.

33. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (c1) is at least 20 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at least 25 wt.%, more preferably at least 30 wt.%, still more preferably at least 35 wt.%, most preferably at least 40 wt.%, and in particular at least 45 wt.%.

34. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (c1) is at most 80 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at most 75 wt.%, more preferably at most 70 wt.%, still more preferably at least 65 wt.%, most preferably at most 60 wt.%, and in particular at most 55 wt.%.

35. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (c2) is selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LLDPE; still more preferably LLDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

36. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (c2) is LLDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.940±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.940±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.940±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.940±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.940±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.940±0.001 g / cm3.

37. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymer (c2) is LLDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the rangeof 125±6°C; preferably 125±5°C, more preferably 125±4°C, still more preferably 125±3°C, most preferably 125±2°C, and in particular 125±1°C.

38. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (c2) is at least 10 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at least 15 wt.%, more preferably at least 20 wt.%, still more preferably at least 25 wt.%, most preferably at least 30 wt.%, and in particular at least 35 wt.%.

39. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight fraction of the ethylene homo- or copolymer (c2) is at most 70 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at most 65 wt.%, more preferably at most 60 wt.%, still more preferably at least 55 wt.%, most preferably at most 50 wt.%, and in particular at most 45 wt.%.

40. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymers (a1), (b1) and (c1) are each independently of one another selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LDPE; still more preferably LDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

41. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymers (a1), (b1) and (c1) are each independently of one another LDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.923±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.923±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.923±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.923±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.923±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.923±0.001 g / cm3.

42. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymers (a2), (b2) and (c2) are each independently of one another selected from LDPE and LLDPE; preferably having a density in the range of 0.920 to 0.945 g / cm3; more preferably LLDPE; still more preferably LLDPE having a melt flow index (190°C, 2.16 kg, ASTM D1238) of at most 5.0 g / 10 min, more preferably at most 4.0 g / 10 min, still more preferably at most 3.0 g / 10 min, most preferably at most 2.0 g / 10 min, and in particular at most 1.0 g / 10 min.

43. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymers (a2), (b2) and (c2) are each independently of one another LLDPE having a density (ASTM D792) in the range of 0.940±0.006 g / cm3; preferably 0.940±0.005 g / cm3, more preferably 0.940±0.004 g / cm3, still more preferably 0.940±0.003 g / cm3, most preferably 0.940±0.002 g / cm3, and in particular 0.940±0.001 g / cm3.

44. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ethylene homo-or copolymers (a2), (b2) and (c2) are each independently of one another LLDPE having a VICAT softening temperature (ASTM D1525) in the range of 125±6°C; preferably 125±5°C, morepreferably 125±4°C, still more preferably 125±3°C, most preferably 125±2°C, and in particular 125±1°C.

45. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A)(i) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (a1), an LDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 50±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably 50±15 wt.%, more preferably 50±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 50±10 wt.%, most preferably 50±7.5 wt.% and in particular 50±5 wt.%; and(ii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (a2), an LLDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 40±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably 40±15 wt.%, more preferably 40±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 40±10 wt.%, most preferably 40±7.5 wt.% and in particular 40±5 wt.%.

46. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of polymers that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no polymers at all that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE.

47. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) has a layer thickness in the range of 1.5 to 12.5 pm.

48. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle layer (B) (i) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1), an LDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 45±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 45±15 wt.%, more preferably 45±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 45±10 wt.%, most preferably 45±7.5 wt.% and in particular 45±5 wt.%;(ii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2), an LLDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 20±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 20±15 wt.%, more preferably 20±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 20±10 wt.%, most preferably 20±7.5 wt.% and in particular 20±5 wt.%; and(iii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3), an HDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 30±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 30±15 wt.%, more preferably 30±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 30±10 wt.%, most preferably 30±7.5 wt.% and in particular 30±5 wt.%.

49. The polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein the middle layer (B) (i) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1), an LDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 15±12.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 15±10 wt.%,more preferably 15±7.5 wt.%, still more preferably 15±5.0 wt.%, most preferably 15±2.5 wt.% and in particular 15±1.0 wt.%; and(ii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2), one LLDPE or several different LLDPEs in a weight fraction in the range of 75±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 75±15 wt.%, more preferably 75±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 75±10 wt.%, most preferably 75±7.5 wt.% and in particular 75±5 wt.%.

50. The polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein the middle layer (B)(i) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b1), an LDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 15±12.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 15±10 wt.%, more preferably 15±7.5 wt.%, still more preferably 15±5.0 wt.%, most preferably 15±2.5 wt.% and in particular 15±1.0 wt.%;(ii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b2), a first LLDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 20±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 20±15 wt.%, more preferably 20±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 20±10 wt.%, most preferably 20±7.5 wt.% and in particular 20±5 wt.%; and(iii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (b3), a second LLDPE which differs from the first LLDPE, in a weight fraction in the range of 55±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably 55±15 wt.%, more preferably 55±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 55±10 wt.%, most preferably 55±7.5 wt.% and in particular 55±5 wt.%.

51. The polyethylene film according to claim 50, wherein the first LLDPE (b2) and the second LLDPE (b3) preferably differ from one another in at least one property selected from comonomer besides ethylene, density, melt flow index (MFI, 190°C, 2.16 kg) and VICAT softening temperature.

52. The polyethylene film according to claim 51, wherein(i) the first LLDPE (b2) comprises, besides ethylene, octene as comonomer and the second LLDPE (b3) comprises, besides ethylene, hexene as comonomer; and / or(ii) the density of the first LLDPE (b2) is greater than the density of the second LLDPE (b3); and / or(iii) the melt flow index of the first LLDPE (b2) is greater than the melt flow index of the second LLDPE (b3); and / or(iv) the VICAT softening temperature of the first LLDPE (b2) is higher than the VICAT softening temperature of the second LLDPE (b3).

53. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle layer (B) contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of polymers that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE nor HDPE, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no polymers at all that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE nor HDPE.

54. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle layer (B) contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of polymers that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no polymers at all that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE.

55. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle layer (B) has a layer thickness in the range of 3 to 25 pm, preferably 5 to 20 pm.

56. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C)(i) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (c1), an LDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 50±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably 50±15 wt.%, more preferably 50±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 50±10 wt.%, most preferably 50±7.5 wt.% and in particular 50±5 wt.%; and(ii) contains, as ethylene homo- or copolymer (c2), an LLDPE in a weight fraction in the range of 40±17.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably 40±15 wt.%, more preferably 40±12.5 wt.%, still more preferably 40±10 wt.%, most preferably 40±7.5 wt.% and in particular 40±5 wt.%.

57. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C) contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of polymers that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no polymers at all that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE.

58. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C) has a layer thickness in the range of 1.5 to 12.5 pm.

59. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene film contains, if at all, in total at most 12.5 wt.% of polymers that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE nor HDPE, based on the total weight of the polyethylene film; preferably at most 10 wt.%, more preferably at most 7.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 5 wt.%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.%, and in particular no polymers at all that are neither LDPE nor LLDPE nor HDPE.

60. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, which has a symmetrical layer structure with respect to the sealing layer (A), the middle layer (B) and the sealing layer (C).

61. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, which, besides the sealing layer (A), optionally coated with the release coating, the middle layer (B) and the sealing layer (C), does not comprise any further layers.

62. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, which has a total layer thickness of at least 10 pm.

63. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, which has a total layer thickness of at most 45 pm, more preferably at most 40 pm, still more preferably at most 35 pm, most preferably at most 30 pm and in particular at most 25 pm.

64. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio of the layer thicknesses of the sealing layer (A), the middle layer (B) and the sealing layer (C) is in the range of 1:1.5:1 to 1:3.5:1, preferably about 1:2:1.

65. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A), the middle layer (B) and / or the sealing layer (C) independently of one another contain at least one additive; preferably selected from the group consisting of dyes; fillers, such as CaCO3; plasticizers; lubricants; emulsifiers; pigments; rheology additives; catalysts; flow control agents; optical brighteners; light stabilizers; antioxidants; clarifying agents, such as substituted or unsubstituted bisbenzylidene sorbitols; flame retardants; antistatic agents; UV absorbers such as benzoxazinones; blowing agents; and thiosynergists, such as dilauryl thiodipropionates or distearyl thiodipropionates.

66. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) contains, if at all, at most 14 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at most 13 wt.%, more preferably at most 12 wt.%, still more preferably at most 11 wt.%, most preferably 10 wt.% and in particular at most 9 wt.%.

67. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) contains at most 2.5 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (A); preferably at most 2.0 wt.%, more preferably at most 1.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 1.0 wt.%, most preferably 0.5 wt.% and in particular at most 0.1 wt.%.

68. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle layer (B) contains, if at all, at most 19 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the middle layer (B); preferably at most 18 wt.%, more preferably at most 17 wt.%, still more preferably at most 16 wt.%, most preferably 15 wt.% and in particular at most 14 wt.%.

69. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C) contains, if at all, at most 14 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the sealing layer (C); preferably at most 13 wt.%, more preferably at most 12 wt.%, still more preferably at most 11 wt.%, most preferably 10 wt.% and in particular at most 9 wt.%.

70. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C) contains at most 2.5 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the sealinglayer (C); preferably at most 2.0 wt.%, more preferably at most 1.5 wt.%, still more preferably at most 1.0 wt.%, most preferably 0.5 wt.% and in particular at most 0.1 wt.%.

71. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene film contains, if at all, in total at most 5.0 wt.% of inorganic constituents, based on the total weight of the polyethylene film; preferably at most 4.5 wt.%, more preferably at most 4.0 wt.%, still more preferably at most 3.5 wt.%, most preferably 3.0 wt.% and in particular at most 2.5 wt.%.

72. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) and the sealing layer (C) each have a substantially smooth surface.

73. The polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 71, which is structured, preferably embossed.

74. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, which has a total layer thickness in the range of 10to 25 pm, preferably 10 to20 pm.

75. The polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 73, which has a total layer thickness in the range of 25 to 40 pm, preferably 20 to 40 pm.

76. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release coating has a basis weight of at most 0.65 g / m2; preferably at most 0.60 g / m2, more preferably at most 0.55 g / m2, still more preferably at most 0.50 g / m2, most preferably at most 0.45 g / m2, and in particular at most 0.40 g / m2; preferably at most 0.35 g / m2, more preferably at most 0.30 g / m2, still more preferably at most 0.25 g / m2, most preferably at most 0.20 g / m2.

77. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release coating is based on at least one cured polysiloxane selected from the group consisting of(i) addition-crosslinked, preferably metal-catalyzed addition-crosslinked, condensation-crosslinked, free-radically crosslinked and / or cationically crosslinked polysiloxanes; preferably free-radically crosslinked polysiloxanes; and / or(ii) polydialkylsiloxanes, preferably polydimethylsiloxanes; and polyalkylarylsiloxanes, preferably polymethylphenylsiloxanes; preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polysiloxanes; more preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polydialkylsiloxanes, preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polydimethylsiloxanes; or chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polyalkylarylsiloxanes, preferably chemically crosslinked acrylate-functionalized polymethylphenylsiloxanes.

78. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene film is blown-film coextruded.

79. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (A) is at least partially printed with a printed image on its outer side.

80. The polyethylene film according to claim 79, wherein the sealing layer (A) is additionally at least partially coated with a release coating on its outer side.

81. The polyethylene film according to claim 80, wherein there are surface sections which are both printed with a printed image and coated with a release coating, and wherein the printed image is arranged between the outer side of the sealing layer (A) and the release coating.

82. The polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing layer (C) is at least partially printed with a printed image on its outer side.

83. Use of a polyethylene film according to any one of the preceding claims as packaging material, preferably for packaging hygiene articles; more preferably sanitary napkins or tampon applicators.

84. A package comprising a hygiene article as packaged goods, preferably a sanitary napkin or a tampon applicator, and a polyethylene film according to any one of claims 1 to 82 as packaging material.