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RETAIN™ - Polymer Modifier

Revolutionising Film Recycling

Produced by DOW, RETAIN™ Polymer Modifier allows multi-layer barrier films to be recycled, addressing the challenge of recycling films containing polar polymers like EVOH and polyamide. These polymers do not disperse well into a polyolefin matrix for recycle/reuse. RETAIN™ Polymer Modifier uses innovative recycle compatibiliser technology developed by Dow, coating and encapsulating polar components to ensure they disperse well. With further blending, resulting resins allow converters to fabricate new “recycled” films without sacrificing physical or optical properties – and in some cases possibly improving upon them.

Key Benefits of RETAIN™ Polymer Modifier:

• Gel Reductions: The use of RETAIN™ Polymer Modifier significantly reduces gels in films produced from barrier film recycle streams compared to other options.
• Optical Properties: Using RETAIN™ polymers as compatibilisers in EVOH- and PA-based recycle content has demonstrated the ability to achieve the same clarity as the control film.
• Physical Properties: Incorporating RETAIN™ polymers as compatibilisers in EVOH- and PA-based recycled content has demonstrated the ability to maintain mechanical properties, particularly maintaining or increasing dart values.
   

Additional Benefits:

• PE/EVOH films with RETAIN™ polymer modifier are approved for the How2Recycle logo by SPC.
• Ability to share success with customers/industry.
• May eliminate or reduce costs associated with collecting, packaging, and selling scrap.
• Opportunity to make better use of recycle stream (versus selling for low value or even paying to dispose of it).
• Option to make “post-industrial recycle content” claims.
• Potential to meet “Zero-Landfill” objectives or "Zero Waste".
   

The Struggle with Barrier Film Scrap

Until now, it has been difficult to recycle films containing polar polymers like EVOH and nylon. They do not disperse well into a polyolefin matrix for recycle/reuse. Previous industry attempts resulted in poor processability and insufficient optical properties – two critical performance requirements for many brand owners and converters.

The Answer to the Barrier Film Scrap Challenge

RETAIN™ Polymer Modifier uses innovative recycle compatibiliser technology developed by Dow. Polar components are coated and encapsulated and disperse well. With further blending, resulting resins allow converters to fabricate new “recycled” films without sacrificing physical or optical properties – and in some cases possibly improving upon them.

The days of dumping film scrap are over. Let’s discuss how you can retain more value in barrier films and promote a circular economy. Our earth will appreciate it. We think you will, too.