Film and packaging manufacturer Schur Flexibles (Wiener Neudorf, Austria; www.schurflexibles.com) has developed VACUflex MHB-T, a barrier film for food applications that does not require the usual EVOH layer. The film manufacturer did not provide details on the exact nature of the polyamide/polyethylene composite with an oxygen barrier. The VACUflex MHB-T film series is available in material thicknesses between 70 µm and 340 µm.

With this new development, the film and packaging group says it is responding to the ongoing, dramatic EVOH shortage, which also applies to EVA to a similar extent. Although the supply situation for EVOH has improved slightly since the end of 2021 (see Plasteurope.com of 06.09.2021), prices continue to rise.

As a result, film manufacturers in particular have stepped up efforts to utilise the material more efficiently and to find substitutes. Processors have also invested in new machines that can laminate thinner EVOH layers, among other things.