Composite films as food packaging - aluminum foil, blisters, laminates
Laminated films, also known as multilayer films, are used in many areas of industry. These are multi-layer packaging films that are produced by laminating, extruding and laminating. Laminated films consist of several layers, each of which is produced for a specific application. The respective film layers are usually laminated or extruded. An adhesive lamination, which can be solvent-free or contain solvents, is used to build up individual monofilms to form the composite.
Composite films have different properties depending on the backing material. Such composite films are usually made of polyamide, cellophane, polyvinyl chloride and polyester.
Properties
Generally speaking, laminated films have versatile properties. They have good UV and light protection, barrier protection against humidity and temperature, gloss, sealability and good tear and puncture resistance. Composite films are also stretchable and can be thermoformed very well. They have high mechanical strength and are weather and cold resistant. The specific composites allow the properties to be varied according to the area of application. Humidity or temperature resistance are of particular interest here.
Applications
Composite films are mainly used in the packaging industry. These include the pharmaceutical, food and construction industries. Insulation manufacturers mainly use these films.
In the food industry, composite films are mainly used to package food for longer shelf life. Meat and sausage products and, above all, ready meals can therefore be packaged very well and safely. This also includes aluminum foil, which is used as a laminate.
Frozen products
The temperature resistance of the film laminates is particularly important for frozen products. The films are produced specifically for the many areas of the food industry. Flexible food packaging usually consists of two or more layers of film.
Functional and visual refinement
For this purpose, the films are often vaporized with metal or coated with silicon oxide. This achieves the necessary barrier properties. Lacquering is another type of coating. This is mainly used to achieve high-gloss surfaces.
Different adhesives are also used here. This results in a multitude of possibilities for different laminated films. Each film composite represents the solution for a specific requirement and application.
In the food industry, not only the films mentioned above are used. Metallized films or combinations of aluminium and plastic films are also used.
The use of laminated films in the food industry has advantages for both the manufacturer and the consumer. Packaging offers fast and safe transportation. The good sealability for sealing is of particular interest, and the low weight is a particular advantage. Furthermore, composite films have long proven to be a cost-effective packaging material. The good recyclability is also an advantage here.
