In a breakthrough for food and drink packaging, leading European packaging manufacturer Coveris has developed a sustainable and recyclable solution for thermoforming film packaging.
Coveris’ MonoFlex Thermoform innovation provides a sustainable alternative to non-recyclable materials currently used for thermoforming packaging in food and drink sectors. The MonoFlex Thermoform films are developed from high-performance monomaterials, enabling the switch from non-recyclable, mixed material thermoforming substrates, which achieves a carbon footprint reduction.
Aligned with Coveris’ sustainability strategy, No Waste, the recyclable MonoFlex Thermoform solutions are produced from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) and are fully nylon-free (PA). The films are manufactured at Coveris plants in Germany and the United Kingdom, and can be produced from single substrate co-extruded or laminated films dependant on the product application and print requirements.
MonoFlex Thermoform offers advanced EVOH barrier properties for product protection and shelf-life, which is also supported by its strong puncture resistance. Coveris’ Film Science Lab expertise and Pack Innovation Centre testing capabilities were instrumental in the innovation process, from the development of the films’ formulations to the validation of their performance, including barrier features.
Developed with a wide operating window, MonoFlex Thermoform maintains packing speeds previously attained and allows a seamless switch from alternative substrates.
Suitable products for MonoFlex Thermoform include a range of bakery items and other applications in meat, fish, poultry and dairy sectors. The recyclable solution is available fully unprinted or with a printed top film, offering a variety of finishing options for consumer appeal and product communication.
Christian Kolarik, Coveris CEO said: “The development of MonoFlex Thermoform is a significant development from the Coveris Group. Manufactured across multiple locations supporting our vision for No Waste, our monomaterial, recyclable MonoFlex Thermoform films are a direct replacement for non-recyclable alternatives currently used. The launch of this material enables a significant amount of plastic packaging to be captured through recycling processes, achieving environmental benefits including carbon footprint reduction and the re-direction of materials away from landfill.”
MonoFlex Thermoform is the newest addition to Coveris’ MonoFlex award-winning range of monomaterials films developed for recyclability, aligned with their vision of No Waste. Coveris is uniquely positioned to support the switch to more sustainable materials via a vertically integrated model, from film development, material science and extrusion to print, conversion, shelf-life enhancement, and machine validation.
