#Canada #Calgary #Polyethylene #NOVA Chemicals #NF-PPA

NOVA Chemicals Introduces Advanced Polyethylene Grades

NOVA Chemicals Corporation has made a significant advancement in polyethylene (PE) technology by introducing new grades that utilize a next-generation non-fluorinated polymer processing aid (NF-PPA). This launch aims to support manufacturers' efforts in adhering to international regulatory standards, all while maintaining the performance characteristics customers expect.

What is NF-PPA?

The recently released PE resins, specifically the SURPASS®, SCLAIR®, and NOVAPOL® grades, have been formulated with the NF-PPA. This innovative processing aid works to mitigate issues commonly seen in the manufacturing process, such as melt fracture and die-lip build-up during extrusion. In terms of performance, the NF-PPA demonstrates capabilities comparable to traditional fluoropolymer-based processing aids, providing qualities essential for production stability, including improved frost line control and enhanced slip properties.

Addressing Regulatory Compliance

Manufacturers continue to face increasingly stringent environmental regulations worldwide, including the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) in the EU. The introduction of the NF-PPA represents NOVA Chemicals' commitment to helping its customers transition smoothly away from fluoropolymer dependencies. By advancing this technology, NOVA Chemicals is not only enhancing product performance but also creating solutions that meet emerging legislative challenges.

Owen Lightbody, who heads Technical Services at NOVA Chemicals, emphasized that the company’s focus is on proactive innovation. He stated, “Our next-generation NF-PPA underscores NOVA Chemicals’ focus on solving critical challenges for our customers through continuous innovation.” This highlights the company's commitment to anticipating market shifts and developing solutions that facilitate operational efficiency for converters and brand owners.

The Performance Advantage

NOVA Chemicals has a track record of introducing fluoropolymer-free PE grades effectively since 2022. This background enables them to build upon their earlier successes with the new NF-PPA formulation, allowing for a broader array of applications across several sectors. The PE grades now equipped with this technology have been developed to ensure consistent high-quality film structures, especially impactful in industries like food packaging and e-commerce where safety and reliability are paramount.

The use of NF-PPA is noteworthy for its compatibility with existing resin formulations. This compatibility allows manufacturers to produce high-quality films devoid of fluorocarbon compounds, ultimately reducing environmental impact. All nine available PE grades, including FP120-D, FP120-C, SPs116-C, and others, can be utilized across a variety of applications, including heavy-duty sacks and other blown films.

Future Outlook

NOVA Chemicals has obtained comprehensive regulatory approvals for the NF-PPA technology across multiple global regions, including North America, Latin America, the EU, and China. As industry languages evolve and more regulations come into play, the company is dedicated to keeping pace by gaining additional approvals.

By providing a viable alternative to fluoropolymer-based aids, NOVA Chemicals is setting a new standard in the industry. This innovation ensures that customers not only meet current market demands but also contribute positively towards environmental responsibility.