Functionalized Ethylene Polymer Tie-Layer for Polyester Adhesion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tie-layer materials in multilayer films used for packaging, such as PET/tie-layer/PE or PE/tie-layer/EVOH/tie-layer/PET, face challenges with adhesion to polyesters, thermal stability at high processing temperatures, and issues related to taste and odor.
Innovation Solution
A film configuration comprising a first layer of polyester or polylactic acid and a second layer of a functionalized ethylene-based polymer and ethylene/alpha-olefin interpolymer, with specific weight ratios and properties to enhance adhesion and thermal stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional tie-layer materials (maleic anhydride modified ethylene methylacrylate or ethylene vinyl acetate polymers) are used, then adhesion properties are improved, but thermal stability at high processing temperatures deteriorates and taste/odor issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the tie-layer material by using ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer with specific alpha-olefin content (5-50 wt%) and controlled molecular weight distribution, thereby achieving both good adhesion to polyester and thermal stability at processing temperatures of 225°C or higher, eliminating the trade-off between adhesion and thermal stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite tie-layer material combining ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer with specific functional groups that provide both adhesive properties and thermal resistance, achieving a material that simultaneously satisfies adhesion requirements and maintains stability at high temperatures without the drawbacks of conventional single-material solutions
2Strength
If conventional tie-layer materials are used, then adhesion to polyesters is improved, but taste and odor properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical structure parameters by selecting specific monomer compositions (ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer with controlled alpha-olefin content) that inherently provide low taste and odor characteristics while maintaining adhesive functionality, thereby achieving adhesion without the harmful sensory properties of conventional materials
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a film comprising at least two layers, a first layer and a second layer; and wherein the first layer is formed from a first composition comprising a polyester, a polylactic acid, or a combination thereof; and wherein the second layer is formed from a second composition comprising at least the following: A) functionalized ethylene-based polymer, and B) ethylene/alpha-olefin interpolymer; and wherein the first layer is adjacent to the second layer.