Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons

Fraction Division

Saturated and aromatic groups form the two primary categories for assessing health risks in polymer applications. Mineral oil hydrocarbons include both straight chain and ring structures that vary in their ability to migrate through plastic barriers. These molecules move through the polymer matrix at different speeds depending on the temperature and the density of the resin.

The aromatic portion is often the focus of stricter regulatory limits.

Source Origin

Contamination typically enters the plastic stream through printing inks or processing lubricants. Recycled paper and board often contain these oils, which then transfer to the plastic during co-extrusion or storage. Clean virgin resin usually lacks these compounds unless they are added as processing aids or anti-static treatments.

The use of low migration inks in the primary printing stage reduces the risk.

Safety Threshold

Migration studies quantify the amount of oil that transfers into a food stimulant over a set period. If the levels exceed specific migration limits, the packaging fails to meet safety standards. Moulders select barrier layers to block this movement and maintain product purity.