LyondellBasell (Rotterdam / The Netherlands; www.lyondellbasell.com) has developed a range of HDPE grades with multimodal molecular weight distribution and improved resistance to stress cracking for applications in closures and containers. The new products also offer high impact resistance and stiffness and good processing properties. The new "Purell" and "Hostalen" grades are distributed by Ultrapolymers (Augsburg / Germany; www.ultrapolymers.de).

"Purell ACP 6541A" has been optimised for the production of one-piece beverage caps and closures in sensitive applications such as still mineral water and pharmaceuticals. "Hostalen ACP 6541A UV" contains an additive to optimise slip, and two other grades, "Hostalen GX4088" and "Hostalen GX4088S" (with slip additive), also have good stress cracking resistance and optimised flow properties. These three new “Hostalen” grades have also been designed for the production of one-piece caps and closures.

"Hostalen ACP 5831 D" is suitable for the extrusion blow moulding of small to medium-sized hollow articles for consumer goods, toys and packaging, while "Hostalen ACP 5231 D" has reduced stiffness and has been developed specifically for applications such as collapsible bottles and tubes.