Declaration of Conformity Verification Strategy for Plastic Packaging Laminates
Verify laminate declarations by checking finished layer chemistry, primary aromatic amine cure completion, and simulant test parameters against batch lots.
Plastic Packaging Laminates
Meaning
Multi-layered structures consist of two or more bonded film types that provide specific barrier and mechanical properties. Single materials often lack the oxygen resistance and moisture protection required for food or medical applications. Using plastic packaging laminates allows a producer to use a thin layer of expensive barrier resin alongside cheaper structural layers.
Adhesion Method
Layers are joined through extrusion coating or the application of adhesive resins. If the bonding process fails, plastic packaging laminates suffer from delamination which ruins the integrity of the seal. Thermal bonding uses heat and pressure to fuse the layers without the need for additional chemicals.
Barrier Performance
Aluminium foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol layers prevent the passage of gases. Because each layer has a specific purpose, plastic packaging laminates are engineered for specific shelf-life requirements. The thickness of each ply is measured in microns to balance cost and performance.
Specialized coatings can also be applied to enhance the surface tension for printing or further processing. This customisation allows for the protection of volatile contents.
Recycling Challenge
Separating different polymers from a bonded structure is technically difficult and expensive. While plastic packaging laminates provide protection, their complexity often limits them to energy recovery. Industry efforts focus on developing monomaterial structures that provide similar barrier properties.