Schur Flexibles Flexofol, part of Austria's Schur Flexibles Group (Baden; www.schurflexibles.com), has developed a new high-barrier film that it said combines extreme thinness with outstanding tear resistance, high mechanical strength and excellent machinability.

According to the company, "BarrierTop X 35" is the thinnest film available on the market with a thickness of 35 microns. The ultra-thin film has a PE sealing layer, which can “reliably” seal controlled atmosphere and modified atmosphere packaging (CAP/MAP) applications as well as preformed trays. It can also be used for vertical and horizontal flow wrap applications.

The highly transparent material can be printed with up to 11 colours on both flexographic and rotogravure systems with reverse or surface options. High-quality print effects such as matt, gloss and paper touch can be used too.

Another advantage of BarrierTop X 35, said Schur Flexibles, is the increased number of linear metres per reel, which reduces the number of reel changes during the packaging process. Potential applications include chilled foods, cooked meats, sausages, cheese, fish and dry foods.