Clear packaging options

Styrene block copolymer (SBC) is a low-cost, high-yield, multifunctional material with a wide range of properties and a wide range of applications. KRATON recently developed an SBC-based material that is particularly suitable for packaging that requires high-definition.

Compared to the softer (Shore A) KRATON D polymer, styrene/isoprene/styrene thermoplastic elastomer (SIS) and styrene/butadiene/styrene elastomer (SBS), D- 1400P series polymer is a hard, transparent and impact resistant modified polymer with a hardness of Shore D. It can be widely used in places where high impact polystyrene is needed. It is clear and transparent, and its price is reasonable.

Clearer packaging

D-1400P is divided into 3 types: D-1403P, D-1431P and D-1493P. In addition to providing very good transparency, products are more hard-packed and film-packed to balance various properties such as firmness, high strength, impact resistance, ductility, and processing advantages. All three polymers can be recycled, and meet FDA requirements for food contact, and also pass the US Pharmacopoeia Level 6 toxicology test.
Each D-1400P series copolymer can be produced by injection molding, extrusion molding, thermoforming and blow molding, and can be made into products such as clear plastic beverage cups, plastic containers, yogurt cup lids, salads, frozen or warm foods. Packaging, high-barrier films for fresh produce, etc. In addition, it can also be used for other injection molded parts such as toys, hooks, etc.

The high fluidity D-1403P allows rapid processing and accelerated cycle times per minute in injection molding and film applications. It contains slip agents/waxes and can be stored in bulk; low flow D-1431P is suitable for sheet thermoforming and Extrusion processing to avoid sheet sag and increase product strength;
D-1493P is a wax-free version of D-1403P that can be used for applications requiring high oxygen permeability, adhesion, and printing.

Dr. Yang Bin, KRATON Asia-Pacific Blend Market Manager, said: “The D-1400P series has been commercially sold globally, including Asia and China. We hope that the success of North America and Europe can serve our new and future customers in various applications and Industrial value-added. We believe that the packaging industry will use more and more plastics instead of metal and glass, and formulate different performance characteristics based on individual finished products and uses."

He added: “It is too early to assess the acceptance of this material by the Chinese market. In the initial stage of entering the Chinese packaging industry, we will focus on functional rather than formality. As for the choice of materials, production Businesses will also focus on cost rather than performance in order to remain competitive.As the industry continues to evolve, Chinese manufacturers will gain more knowledge about production and design and will also increase demand for better performing products. We also believe that after China becomes a member of the World Trade Organization, it will accelerate the development of the packaging industry and increase foreign investment and competition."