ProductWatch: DIC India's Aerobloc Enhance barrier coating

DIC India has introduced the Aerobloc Enhance barrier coating, a chlorine-free functional technology built for flexible film converters looking for simpler, more sustainable structures. The system specifically targets the flexible packaging segment currently relying on complex, multi-layer laminates that are traditionally difficult to recycle.

According to Manish Bhatia, chief executive officer of DIC India, the product addresses a major structural hurdle in the circular economy by shifting functionality directly onto the film surface: "Aerobloc Enhance is a strong example. It allows converters to replace PET with PE or OPP by improving the oxygen barrier of polyolefin, which is a direct enabler of mono-material recyclable structures that would otherwise need multi-layer, mixed-material laminates to achieve the same barrier performance."At the core of the system is advanced water-based chemistry, which inherently eliminates the volatile organic compound concerns and hazardous raw material overheads associated with conventional solvent-borne coating alternatives.

Expanding its workability on site, the product lineup includes solvent-based gravure options alongside the core water-based chemistry. This application via gravure equipment integrates seamlessly into existing plant workflows without demanding new machinery investments. The product carries industrial compost certification and is completely free from fluorinated chemistry, ensuring that PFAS are removed from the processing conversation.

For structural lamination, when Aerobloc Enhance is combined with specialised barrier adhesives, it can deliver an optimal oxygen barrier directly on a PE substrate without needing any additional barrier layers. This can be expected to improve both the oxygen barrier function and the aroma retention of the packaging material, preventing the deterioration of the contents to keep a fresh scent. A mono-material barrier package structure can be established using standard OPP/CPP or OPE/LLDPE configurations. This structural simplification removes expensive secondary lamination steps, lightweights the package, and reduces raw material inventory. The formulation also provides excellent flex cracking resistance within the laminate to ensure stable barrier performance throughout demanding supply chains.

The coating complies with food-contact requirements, screening out carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic substances, as well as heavy metals in accordance with European Printing Ink Association guidelines. It is designed with tightening regulations in mind, helping converters and brand owners demonstrate regulatory readiness under global packaging waste rules and extended producer responsibility frameworks.