Wacker Launches Novel VAE Dispersion for Environmentally Friendly, Low Cost Packaging Adhesives

The new product – Vinnapas XD 05 – is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to existing packaging adhesives based on polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). In adhesive formulation, a VAE-based product makes it possible to reduce the amount of extra additives.

9 Feb 2010 --- Wacker, the Munich-based chemical group, is expanding its existing range of vinyl acetate / ethylene-based (VAE) dispersions for adhesives with a novel product specifically developed for the requirements of the paper and packaging industry. The new product – Vinnapas XD 05 – is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to existing packaging adhesives based on polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). In adhesive formulation, a VAE-based product makes it possible to reduce the amount of extra additives. The product is also characterized by high setting speed and good machine processability. This makes Vinnapas XD 05 ideal for formulating packaging adhesives, which are especially suitable for food applications due to the extremely low migration potential. The new product thus further advances Wacker’s position as market and technology leader in the field of VAE dispersions.

Wacker’s new Vinnapas XD 05 line, an aqueous dispersion based on vinyl acetate and ethylene, offers exceptional adhesive characteristics for paper and packaging applications. The packaging industry has traditionally used adhesives based on polyvinyl acetates as binders. Due to the comparatively high raw materials and development costs, VAE-based dispersions were seldom used or only when higher application requirements made it necessary. Thanks to the improved manufacturing process, the new Vinnapas XD 05 technology now provides a VAE product that is tailored to the demands of the packaging industry, and which at the same time exhibits an outstanding cost/benefit ratio.

Adhesives formulated with Vinnapas XD 05 have very good adhesion and cohesion, a high setting speed and good machine processability. A further benefit of Vinnapas XD 05 is that additional additives such as plasticizers can be eliminated in the formulating of adhesives. This both simplifies formulation and increases manufacturing productivity. Additionally, it means that the product meets the latest environmental and safety standards, offering a sustainable, future-proof solution.

The dispersion, which was created for adhesives in the low-price segment, is ideally suited for adhesive applications in the paper and packaging segment such as food packaging, cartons and boxes, corrugated paper, envelopes, paper bags and sacks.

As one of the founders of VAE technology, Wacker Polymers has over 70 years’ experience in this field, and is today a global market and technology leader in the area of VAE dispersions for adhesives.