NOVA Chemicals launches fluoropolymer-free PE resins with advanced NF-PPA, offering high performance, regulatory compliance, and reliable film processing benefits.
NOVA Chemicals Corporation (鈥淣OVA Chemicals鈥�) has announced the introduction of a new line of polyethylene (PE) resins enhanced with next-generation non-fluorinated polymer processing aid (NF-PPA). The SURPASS庐, SCLAIR庐, and NOVAPOL庐 PE resins featuring this innovative NF-PPA technology are designed to deliver performance on par with traditional fluoropolymer-based PPA solutions, while enabling manufacturers to meet increasingly stringent global regulatory standards without disrupting production processes.
This launch builds on NOVA Chemicals鈥� pioneering efforts in 2022 when the company became one of the first global PE producers to offer fluoropolymer-free PPA grades. Since then, NOVA Chemicals has collaborated closely with film manufacturers, leveraging three years of research and development to optimize the NF-PPA formulation. The updated formulation enhances process stability, providing consistent performance in extrusion applications. Key benefits include improved frost line control, reduced die-lip buildup, and reliable slip and coefficient of friction properties. Additionally, it supports efficient melt fracture clearing and maintains film optics comparable to conventional fluoropolymer-based PPA technologies. This development is particularly valuable for converters and brand owners responding to regulatory frameworks like the European Union鈥檚 REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) legislation, which restricts the use of fluoropolymers.
Owen Lightbody, Leader of Technical Services at NOVA Chemicals, emphasized the company鈥檚 commitment to innovation, stating, 鈥淥ur next-generation NF-PPA highlights NOVA Chemicals鈥� focus on addressing critical challenges for our customers. By anticipating regulatory and market shifts, we are helping converters and brand owners transition smoothly while maintaining high operational efficiency.鈥�
Polymer processing aids (PPAs) are essential in extrusion, helping to prevent melt fracture and die-lip buildup. NOVA Chemicals鈥� next-generation NF-PPA is fully compatible with existing resin formulations, allowing manufacturers to produce high-quality, fluoropolymer-free films without compromising performance. The NF-PPA resin technology has already received broad regulatory approvals across North America, Latin America, the European Union, and China, with additional approvals in progress to ensure compliance as global regulations evolve.
Lightbody further added, 鈥淏y advancing innovative solutions like NF-PPA, NOVA Chemicals is setting a new benchmark for high-performance, fluoropolymer-free polyethylene. Our technology empowers customers to meet current and future market demands effectively.鈥�
Currently, nine PE grades鈥攊ncluding FP120-D, FP120-C, SPs116-C, SPs116-D, VPsK914-C, VPsK914-D, and PF-Y821-BP鈥攁re available with next-generation NF-PPA. These resins are suitable for a wide range of blown film applications, including food packaging, e-commerce, and heavy-duty sacks, enabling manufacturers to achieve consistent quality while adhering to evolving environmental and regulatory standards.
