High barrier packaging gets a fresh look in Amcor's AmLite metal-free packaging
Amcor, a global leader in packaging, will show AmLite, their latest innovation in metal-free packaging technology, at FachPack in Germany (29 September - 1 October). AmLite utilises Amcor's extensive experience in high barrier coating and film extrusion to create a lightweight, transparent material that offers excellent product protection, a strong seal and improved packaging appearance.
"Brand owners can now easily choose transparent packaging, even for sensitive products," said Marco Hilty, VP Marketing and R&D for Amcor Flexibles Europe and Americas. "Packaging that shows the product inside increases consumer trust and the likelihood of purchase. For sensitive products however, this was typically not a practical option, and they were hidden behind aluminium-based or metallised packaging. AmLite gives packaging designers and marketing teams a cost competitive alternative." In addition to transparent, AmLite is also available with a white sealant layer, resulting in brighter printed colours by eliminating the grey background of metal-based materials.
AmLite was developed using Amcor Barrier Coating, a micro-thin transparent barrier layer that is deposited on a base web. The result is a lightweight material with barrier levels approaching that of aluminium. AmLite also utilises special high performance grades of PE or OPP sealant, for excellent performance on packing machines and a reliable seal.
"AmLite can offer a significant environmental benefit by reducing material use," said Wojciech Skalbani
Global Sales & Marketing Director Technical Products for Amcor Flexibles Europe & Americas. In a lifecycle assessment, AmLite provided a 40% carbon footprint reduction and 21% weight reduction compared to standard Alu-based materials. "Additionally, it can help our customers ensure product safety by allowing the use of metal detectors after packs are filled and sealed," said Mr. Skalbani.
AmLite can be used for a range of ambient wet and dry food products, as well as medical and personal care products like powders and lotions. AmLite also offers excellent sealing properties and a strong seal to create a variety of pack formats, including regular, stand up and spouted pouches, as well as flow packs, sachets, and more.
AmLite's performance on packing lines will be demonstrated at FachPack on PFM's Shamal Horizontal machine, which will be running the white version of AmLite. Also running in the PFM booth on the Scirocco machine will be an Amcor OPA/PE film for hard cheese packaging.
