Ineos Launches Pilot Line for Recyclable Flexible Packaging Films in Brussels

INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe has achieved a significant milestone by inaugurating the world's first pilot line dedicated to co-developing recyclable flexible packaging films with customers. This innovative initiative, backed by a multi-million Euro investment, has the potential to divert approximately one million tonnes of waste from landfills annually.

Located at INEOS' R&D center in Brussels, Belgium, the new multilayer, blown film line incorporates Machine Direction Orientation (MDO). It allows customers to conduct full-scale testing without disrupting their own production capacities. Initial collaborative projects are already underway, focusing on the development of new films that seamlessly integrate into customer production lines.

Flexible films play a crucial role in providing lightweight, low-emission packaging solutions that enhance the shelf life of food products during transport. However, current multi-material packaging films, while effective in their functionalities, pose challenges for recycling due to their complex polymer compositions. Simplifying these films while maintaining performance standards enables easier recycling, aligning with the requirements of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. This strategic move underscores INEOS' commitment to advancing sustainable packaging solutions and meeting evolving regulatory standards in the packaging industry.

INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by launching a new multilayer, blown film line with Machine Direction Orientation at its R&D Centre in Brussels. This innovation allows INEOS and its customers to collaboratively develop recyclable flexible packaging films, addressing the challenges posed by multi-material packaging that is hard to recycle. The facility enables customers to conduct full-scale testing without disrupting their own production capacities, potentially preventing approximately one million tonnes of waste from entering landfills annually. This initiative underscores INEOS' commitment to sustainability and advancing solutions that meet regulatory standards while enhancing operational efficiency for its customers in the packaging industry.

Rob Ingram, CEO of INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe, emphasized the importance of flexible packaging films in modern society while acknowledging the growing concerns about plastic waste. He highlighted INEOS' proactive approach in collaborating with stakeholders throughout the value chain to promote a circular economy and develop sustainable solutions that meet consumer demands. The commissioning of the new Machine Direction Orientation (MDO) line represents a significant advancement towards achieving fully recyclable packaging films. Ingram expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities generated by this investment, underscoring INEOS' commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship in the packaging industry. By enabling the development of recyclable films that address sustainability challenges, INEOS aims to contribute positively to reducing plastic waste and supporting a more sustainable future for its customers and communities globally.

The cutting-edge technology provided by Hosokawa Alpine thermally processes and stretches polymer films to enhance their structural and barrier characteristics, expanding their versatility across various product applications.