The paper and board industry is continually evolving as it develops new, high-performing materials that meet consumer demands, including improved functionality. Today’s consumers use products that go beyond basic packaging to include highly desired performance properties such as barrier protection, oil and grease resistance, and controlled moisture vapor transmission.
Manufacturers must balance this improved functionality with sustainability, as consumers continue to push for more environmentally friendly solutions. However, the product development process requires manufacturers to carefully consider cost, material usage, time, and sustainability concerns as they work on new solutions.
Multilayer curtain coaters (MLCCs) can enhance product development and support industry players in creating barrier coatings that answer these demands. Additionally, manufacturers benefit from a more efficient and sustainable production process as MLCC uses less materials thanks to its uniform contour coatings.
The right materials solutions partner, like Trinseo, can provide paper and board industry players with access to trial this critical technology and guide them throughout the product development process. Trinseo’s facility in Rheinmünster, Germany, is equipped with a state-of-the-art MLCC unit to support our partners in creating solutions that can withstand even their most demanding applications. Our unique ability to work with our partners directly in a laboratory setting not only makes the product development process easier but also provides them with hands-on support every step of the way.
Our MLCC Capabilities
Trinseo’s MLCC unit in Rheinmünster, Germany, was designed with a smaller footprint, making the product testing and development process more cost-efficient. The smaller-sized unit allows for a quick trial process without compromising the end result. The unique design of the MLCC unit allows coating at real life machine speeds typically only available at pilot scale and in production.
Using contour coating on the MLCC, manufacturers can apply up to five separate layers of materials in a single step, each with a uniform thickness and unique functionality. The coatings do not intermix during this process, creating a layered coating structure of different polymer types that deliver critical performance characteristics.
Manufacturers can use less materials during the trial process thanks to the smaller header unit. The unit allows for the application of thinner layers, in turn improving material usage, cost efficiencies, and supporting sustainability goals while aligning with consumer demands.
Additionally, Trinseo’s laboratory unit has a dedicated space for creating binder formulations so our partners can adjust their coating layers to meet their needs in real-time. Wide scaleability is possible, as trials can also be extended to the pilot coat in Midland, Michigan, which includes a five layers slide die curtain coater. This unique setting allows adjustments to be made quickly, improving product development.
Engaged, Hands-on Support
This laboratory setting goes beyond the MLCC unit's technical capabilities and also connects our partners directly with their technical support and development experts. These hands-on interactions allow Trinseo experts to oversee the entire testing process and provide guidance, so the result aligns with our partner’s goals. Whether our partners have previous research and a precise testing plan or need support in creating one, we can guide them and optimize their product development for the best results.
Additionally, our experts can provide guidance on how to best integrate recycled, compostable, or bio-based materials into their barrier coatings to further support you on your sustainability journey. Furthermore, we support our partners in designing a trial that goes beyond traditional paper and board mediums, including fabric and metal materials.
The possibilities are endless with a Trinseo technical support and development expert with you every step of the way.
When it comes to new product development for barrier coatings, Trinseo experts are uniquely positioned to support our partners throughout the process. Our in-depth understanding of the industry and its trends enables us to support you in developing solutions that align with industry trajectories. Moreover, our team can provide guidance on research and trial plans to best help you meet your product goals.
