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How to improve reactor operations and product versatility

ActivCat® catalyst technology helps make better plastic films across various blown film applications.

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Polyethylene resin producers that want a way to create better plastic films with improved properties, versatility, and precision should focus on catalysts that offer excellent activation for producing metallocene linear low-density polyethylene (mLLDPE) films. This type of catalyst innovation drives enhanced performance through these 4 areas:

  1.  Advancing Resin Production
    Look for a metallocene catalyst that improves the way plastic resins are made, making the process more efficient. Certain metallocene catalysts are designed to improve plant performance and product capability, offering an alternative to traditional Ziegler Natta Polyethylene (ZN-PE) resins. This catalyst technology supports the production of various resin grades, thanks to the ability to handle a broad density-to-melt index range. 

  2. Versatility Across Blown Film Applications
    Ask your catalyst supplier for one catalyst that can be used to make different types of plastic films for various purposes. This type of catalyst versatility allows for production consistency while still producing a range of flexible applications, including food packaging, stand-up pouches, heavy-duty sacks, greenhouse films, mulch films, and premium trash bags. Polyethylene resin producers can efficiently meet diverse market demands without major manufacturing disruption.

  3. Performance Characteristics
    PE resin producers that are interested in films that are tougher and have better sealing should look for the dart impact and puncture resistance results. Films made with advanced metallocene catalysts should show higher toughness and a better appearance compared to ZN-LLDPE films. These films also have better sealability, with lower heat seal initiation temperatures and higher peak hot tack, as well as improved optics, featuring higher gloss and lower haze. 

  4. Precision and Processability
    If you want an easier production of high-quality plastic films with precise properties, metallocene catalyst platforms can offer single-site polymerization precision, which enhances processing performance, particularly in laminate applications. This leads to films with higher melt strength, stiffness, creep resistance, and sealability compared to traditional ZN-LLDPE films. Certain catalyst technologies are available for multiple process technologies, whether it is gas phase, slurry, or hybrid.

When you are producing PE resins, you want supporting technology partners that helps create new and better products. Grace's metallocene-based ActivCat® catalyst platform supports polyethylene resin producers in innovating and diversifying their product offerings. By leveraging this catalyst technology, producers can achieve higher resin production, improved film quality, and enhanced product differentiation. This can boost operational efficiency and open up new opportunities for growth.

In summary, ActivCat® catalyst helps make better plastic films with improved properties and versatility. This catalyst technology represents an advancement in the production of metallocene linear low-density polyethylene films. Its ability to deliver balanced properties, versatility, and precision makes it a valuable tool for polyethylene resin producers. By adopting ActivCat® catalyst technology, producers can enhance performance and processability, driving innovation in the industry.