Chemical company Milliken is partnering with flexible packaging manufacturer Huhtamaki to develop a more sustainable, mono-material laminate for use in tubes targeting cosmetics, toothpaste and other personal-care applications. The results of this joint effort reportedly comprise high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tubes produced using Huhtamaki laminates optimised with Milliken UltraGuard Solutions technology. According to the companies, UltraGuard Solutions – by improving the barrier properties of HDPE film by up to 50 per cent – are to enable more mono-material construction of products such as stand-up flexible pouches and tubes. The improved barrier properties are also said to allow for downgauging of the polyethylene (PE) film, resulting in a lighter-weight end product and a reduction in the amount of resin needed. Further information …