1. Barrier Properties:
EVOH as Barrier Layer: EVOH is an excellent barrier material against gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, which can degrade the quality and shelf life of packaged products. Incorporating an EVOH layer between two layers of PP increases the barrier properties of the overall package, extending freshness and, hence, shelf life of the product.
2. Moisture Protection:
Reduced Moisture Transmission: While PP already acts as a partial moisture barrier, the addition of EVOH reduces moisture transmission through the packaging material further. This is crucial for products that are sensitive to changes in humidity; these include, among many others, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and electronic goods.
3. Thermal Stability:
Improved thermal performance: a combination of PP and EVOH keeps the thermal stability of PP and imparts its barrier properties contributed by EVOH. This means that the effectiveness of the packaging will remain intact even against variation in temperature, be it for storage purposes or otherwise.
4. Mechanical Properties:
Enhanced Mechanical Properties: The multilayer structure can offer higher mechanical resistance and toughness compared to single-layer PP. This could be useful in applications needing strong packaging that is able to resist handling and shipping stresses.
5. Processability:
Maintains Processability: Even with the addition of EVOH, the multilayer structure can be processed by conventional techniques of extrusion or thermoforming, thus remaining compatible with existing manufacturing equipment and processes.
6. Cost-Effectiveness:
Material Usage Optimized: Putting the layer of EVOH only where it helps the most, usually right in the middle, serves to economize on costly EVOH and helps in using less expensive resins when packaging, making this a relatively cost-effective alternative without ever compromising performance.
7. Environmental Considerations:
Sustainability: EVOH as a barrier layer can reduce further protective measures, which means that the overall material use and waste could be less. Besides, some EVOH grades are designed to be recyclable and contribute to more sustainable packaging solutions.
In summary, the PP/EVOH/PP structure leverages the strengths of each component to create a packaging solution that offers superior barrier properties, enhanced durability, and improved functionality, all while maintaining processability and potentially offering cost and environmental benefits.