European rigid packaging manufacturer Paccor has selected MuCell extrusion technology for its Neocell and Neocell+ thin sheet technology for form-fill-seal (FFS) applications in dairy, along with other markets.
FFS process is often used in packaging of yogurts, desserts, single portion servings of UHT milk and sauces.
In the process, packing material is fed from a roll, formed to the desired shape, filled with product and later on sealed in a continuous operation.
Paccor materials technology manager Bob Hope said the development of the gas injection technology, in conjunction with MuCell Extrusion has allowed the company to offer two new products to the market.
"Neocell allows us to eliminate the use of chemical foaming agents, which for us leads to a cleaner process, with much more control over the expansion, as the quantity of gas injected is metered very accurately," Hope added.
Neocell has a low density middle layer, which forms through the use of the MuCell process and makes the polystyrene sheet lighter, environmentally-friendly, while also improving the carbon footprint.
Neocell+ is an extension of Neocell. Mineral fillers are incorporated into the formulation, which reinforces the structure enabling it to be used in applications where previously only solid sheet could be used.
The density decrease of the flexible Neocell through its use of the MuCell process, leads to weight reduction, material savings and reduced CO2 emissions.
MuCell Extrusion is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zotefoams.
