Managing Dual Use Additives Information Flow in Plastic Packaging Declarations
Dual use additive management demands specific identity flow from resin compounders to food packers to satisfy direct food additive maximum limits.
E 471
Meaning
Fatty acid derivatives function as internal lubricants and release aids during the thermal processing of plastics. The label e 471 describes mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids which are widely used in food packaging polymers. Small molecules lower the friction between the polymer melt and the metal surfaces of the extruder or mould.
These compounds also help in dispersing other additives like pigments or fillers to ensure a uniform material composition.
Release Property
Internal lubrication allows complex parts to be ejected from the mould without sticking or marking. An addition of e 471 reduces the force required to remove the part from the tool steel. Reduced friction shortens the cycle time and prevents structural damage to the gate or thin walls.
Part removal is particularly difficult in deep-draw containers where the surface area is large.
Polymer Compatibility
Molecular structures with both polar and non-polar segments allow the additive to sit at the interface of different materials. In polyolefins, e 471 migrates toward the surface to create a boundary layer. A layer acts as a mild antistatic bridge and improves the surface gloss.
Surface improvement occurs without negatively impacting the mechanical properties of the host resin.
Processing Stability
Thermal resistance is a prerequisite for any chemical added to a high temperature melt. At typical injection moulding temperatures, e 471 remains stable and does not degrade into volatile compounds. Stability prevents the formation of gas bubbles or silver streaks in the moulded part.
Predictable melt viscosity ensures consistent production throughout the run.