Husky’s revolutionary multi-layer PET solution for CSD packaging earns APR recognition

CANADA – Husky’s ongoing collaboration with Mitsubishi Gas Chemical has resulted in a remarkable advancement of our fully recyclable Multi-Layer PET solution for small-format carbonated soft drinks (CSD), earning accolades from the American Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for integrating 3.3% MXD6.

This achievement follows Husky’s previous recognition for 2.5% MXD6 integration by APR in 2020.

The evolution of its solution allows for its application across a wider range of bottle sizes, meeting the diverse needs of beverage packaging producers for recyclable barrier packaging across different formats.

As a benchmark for recyclability, APR’s recognition underscores Husky’s commitment to sustainability, empowering its customers to enhance operational efficiency, promote design circularity, and reduce costs.

Traditionally, the permeability of PET has limited its use for small-format CSD packages of 355ml and smaller, necessitating thicker and heavier monolayer bottles or the incorporation of polymers like nylon, which hinders PET recycling streams. Aluminum cans have been an alternative, but they present their own challenges.

Husky recognized the need for a solution that balances performance and sustainability, leading to the development of our multi-layer package.

By integrating up to 3.3% MXD6, the company can now cater to bottles as light as 12 grams, significantly expanding the reach of sustainable packaging solutions.

Key features of the multi-layer package include a specially engineered barrier material for CO₂ retention, precision-injected barrier material application, full recyclability, and cost-effective lightweighting initiatives.

Utilizing high-precision co-injection technology, Husky’s Multi-Layer equipment sandwiches a functional component between two PET layers, offering unmatched control over material thickness and placement.

Built on the HyPET®HPP5e platform, Husky’s co-injection systems maximize production output, minimize part variability, and enhance part quality, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable innovation in packaging solutions.

Meanwhile, in August last year, Husky Technologies partnered with material supplier Origin Materials Inc. to commercialize PET (polyethylene terephthalate) incorporating the sustainable chemical FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) for advanced packaging and other applications.

California-based Origin successfully polymerized the bio-based sustainable chemical FDCA into the common recyclable plastic, PET, and Husky molded the resulting “PET/F” hybrid polymer into preforms that were then blown into bottles.

The companies used Husky’s injection molding technologies and manufacturing equipment, a commercial manufacturing-scale level of processing demonstrating the ability of PET/F, a polymer made with FDCA, to be integrated into existing PET production systems.

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