DSM to boost Akulon XS capacity

The capacity increase will meet the strong growing demand it has reported for Akulon XS, a polyamide developed specifically for blown films used in flexible food packaging. The capacity expansion is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2016.

DSM said the barrier properties and mechanical strength of conventional PA6 are ideal for flexible films used in food packaging, although its high crystallization speed can be restrictive, and processors have to either compromise on productivity, or blend with special amorphous polyamides or polyamide copolymers, which it said reduces cost efficiency and properties. Akulon XS, it is claimed, resolves the issue as it crystallizes much more slowly than conventional PA6, so giving processors improved performance and productivity gains without the need for expensive blending. ‘This makes it easier and more cost effective for processors to make blown films for flexible food packaging while retaining the unique barrier and mechanical properties of PA6,’ according to DSM.

Further benefits include mechanical strength, puncture resistance and barrier performance. Akulon XS also enables downgauging to create thinner films further reducing weight, cost and waste.

Danilo Fioravante, global business director at DSM for Akulon, as well as Novamid and EcoPaXX, said: ‘Demand for barrier films for flexible food packaging continues to rise in response to the growing need to reduce food waste and for longer food shelf life. This latest expansion in Akulon XS helps to address these demands and underpins our commitment to developing sustainable solutions for industry and society.’

Royal DSM is a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials.