Gabriel-Chemie Group has expanded its portfolio with new Polymer Processing Aid, PPA, masterbatches free from PFAS and silicones. The products are based on hydrocarbon technology and were developed to optimise processing properties in extrusion processes while also taking current and future regulatory requirements into account. PPAs are used in a wide range of extrusion applications, such as blown films, cast films and pipes. Their role is to improve process stability, reduce die build-up and increase the quality of finished products. The importance of PFAS-free solutions is growing along with the debate on the potentially harmful health effects of these substances and in connection with the implementation of the EU PPWR, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
According to the company, the PPWR introduces, among other measures, a complete ban on PFAS in food packaging applications from August 2026. This is expected to accelerate the development of material solutions that will comply with future market and regulatory requirements. In this context, Gabriel-Chemie's new masterbatches are intended to provide an alternative to conventional PFAS-based PPA systems.
Processing parameters and product quality
According to the information provided by the company, the new hydrocarbon-based PPA masterbatches offer high effectiveness in extrusion applications. In industrial production-scale trials, the solutions reportedly demonstrated comparable performance in terms of process stability and product quality relative to traditional PFAS-containing PPA systems. The reported effects included reduced die build-up and lower machine pressure, improved process stability, and favourable optical properties. In blown film applications, this includes high transparency, a smooth surface and uniform film thickness.
The expanded portfolio includes solutions based on polyethylene and polypropylene carriers. As Gabriel-Chemie states, they are intended to support customers in maintaining high process reliability and consistent product quality, while preparing for upcoming regulatory changes.
