Constantia Flexibles has opened a new research and development (R&D) center for polymer films and film laminates for flexible packaging in Germany.
The move is in line with the company's multi-million investment for upgrading equipment and infrastructure of the existing local R&D facilities.
Situated at the company's second largest production plant in Weiden, the center with 15 experts will focus on analyzing and testing the composition of the latest film products and developing new film formulations with the company's raw material suppliers.
The newly formulated films will help the company to achieve optimal quality and meet stringent food contact legislation in a transparent way.
The models developed at the center will allow the company's customers to meet long-term trends such as more recycling-friendly packaging.
Film-based materials are said to offer excellent sealability and impermeability to water, mechanical resistance and good printability.
Besides the new facility, Constantia is planning to set up its own lab-scale film production line for 2016 with the installment of an extruder.
Over 50% of the company's sales are achieved from film-based packaging for food, beverage and home & personal care products. This share is anticipated to increase in the near future.
The global demand is being driven by the Asian and African continents. Nearly half of overall film consumption is polyethylene-based films (PE).
Constantia Flexibles already operates a competence center for aluminum and foil laminates at its largest plant in Weinburg, Austria.
The company also offers foil-based products, such as die-cut lidding, aluminum container systems, confectionery foil and pharmaceutical blister and coldform packaging.
Image: The new center will focus on analyzing and testing the composition of the latest film products. Photo: courtesy of Constantia.
