Michelman develops latest oxygen and mineral oil barrier coatings for flexible packaging applications

Michem Flex Barrier coatings, debuting at Labelexpo Europe 2017, include 3510 and 1000.

Michem Flex Barrier 3510 is a transparent, high oxygen barrier coating said to extend the shelf life of oxygen-sensitive products. After being applied to either polymer or preferably polyester substrates in packaging laminate structures used in food packaging applications, it can reduce oxygen transmission rates up to 5cc/sqm/day. It serves as an alternative to coatings containing chlorine or nanoparticles, while maintaining effectiveness through processing and distribution functions. It shows ‘excellent’ printability and lamination bond strength, and is compliant for use in food packaging in the US and Europe.

For brands, Michelman said Michem Flex Barrier 3510 helps preserve product appearance and flavor, and potentially minimizes preservative use. It also allows for increased shelf appeal, because its transparency enhances visibility of the product through the packaging.

Michem Flex Barrier 1000 acts as both an oxygen and mineral oil migration barrier, making it suitable for numerous food packaging applications. It is formulated for use on paper substrates, where it reduces mineral oil migration to less than 0.6mg per 1kg of food.