Trexel, the Wilmington, Mass.-based producer of foaming technology, is partnering with W. Müller GmbH to supply a physical foaming solution for multi-layer extrusion blow molded (EBM) containers.
The technology will allow users to lightweight bottles and incorporate post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in them while maintaining physical properties. It can easily be retrofitted to an existing screw and barrel.
In light of demand and regulations regarding PCR, Trexel has been developing solutions to reduce plastic consumption and meet PCR content requirements. The company also said it “has found a new and unique way to maintain the impact, ESCR (Environmental Stress Crack Resistance) and topload properties of the bottles so it can function in the same way as a solid bottle.”
W. Müller, based in Troisdorf-Spich, Germany, and Agawam, Mass., supplies equipment for blow molding, including parison heads, extruders and controls.
Levi Kishbaugh, president and CEO of Trexel, said in a statement, “Our foaming solutions for EBM containers can be implemented with minimal machine modifications and without license fees. As sustainability has taken center stage in plastics manufacturing, this technology complements the incorporation of PCR as a core layer in a multi-layer bottle and serves to meet brands’ sustainability goals.”
The partnership allows for trials to be conducted in technical centers located in North America and Europe, equipped with the latest machinery and advanced engineering support.
