Barrier coatings

What are barrier coatings?

Barrier coatings are protective layers added to packaging materials to keep products safe from moisture, oxygen, and other external elements. They help maintain product freshness, prevent spoilage, and achieve a longer shelf life. These coatings can be applied using gravure, flexo & offset process and coating can be either water-based or solvent-based.

Barrier coatings also support the development of mono-material packaging, which is easier to recycle and better for the environment. They are suitable for dry food, chilled food, and frozen food. They help retain aromas, keeping the original scent intact. By improving barrier properties in packaging materials like OPP/CPP and OPE/LLDPE, they help create more sustainable and efficient packaging solutions while keeping products in good condition.

What is water based barrier coating?

Water-based coatings improve water, oil, and heat resistance in packaging materials. They help protect the contents from damage and retain their original scent. These coatings are classified into two types. One type is used in paper packaging to add moisture resistance and improve sealing properties. The other type strengthens mono-material structures by adding an oxygen barrier to polyolefin materials, helping to preserve product quality.

DIC offers water-based barrier coatings for packaging, paper, and film. Our products, including SunSys, Sunstar, and Hydbar, strengthen oxygen barriers (Sunbar, can be used in films) and sealing properties in paper and polyolefin-based packaging, improving durability and protection.

Why is barrier used?

A barrier in flexible packaging is provided by metalized films/ foils/ specialty films, which protects products from external factors like humidity, oxidation, sunlight, and contaminants. It helps extend shelf life, maintain freshness, and prevent spoilage or degradation. In food and pharmaceutical packaging, barrier coatings are now replacing barrier films. And are key to recyclable packaging.

What are barrier materials in packaging?

Barrier adhesives protect products from moisture, oxygen, light, and contaminants, helping to maintain freshness and extend shelf life. Common materials include aluminum for strong gas and moisture resistance, glass for complete impermeability, and plastics like PET and PP for flexible protection.

DIC's PASLIM is an example of a barrier adhesive designed for flexible packaging. It improves oxygen barrier properties and can replace nylon, PET based multi layer laminate to mono material structures.

References:

• https://www.dic.co.in/blog/products-barrier-coating
• https://www.whatpackaging.co.in/features/productwatch-dics-water-based-barrier- coating-57919
• https://youtu.be/fz4T19DZaMs?si=cdEBiM80r_CFAaZE
• https://www.printweek.in/features/dic-keeping-up-with-ink-demands-innovating-around- new-products-the-noel-dcunha-sunday-column-58739
• https://ap.dic-global.com/products/hydbar/