High flow rate

Outstanding senses

High bending modulus

Nuclear anti-static

As food packaging manufacturers seek more balanced options for efficiency, performance, and environmental responsibility, LyondellBasell states that Pro-fax EP649U is becoming an alternative.

In addition, the company pointed out that the product has a high flexural modulus, which provides stacking strength for containers, thereby reducing container wall thickness and lightweighting components without sacrificing any impact resistance.

The company stated that Pro-fax EP649U improves sensory characteristics compared to other commonly used grades. LyondellBasell indicated that it does not contain controlled rheological by-products that can transfer unwanted flavors and odors to packaged goods.

Food contact compliance

In addition, the company pointed out that the material also meets the food contact requirements of the United States and other countries/regions, as well as the non-phthalate catalysts used in resin production and pure non-animal-derived additives.

Pro-fax EP649U can also be used in the LyondellBasell CirculenRenew and CirculenRevive product lines, which is said to enable customers to achieve their sustainability goals for recycled content and reduced carbon footprint.

LyondellBasell's CirculenRenew and CirculenRevive polyolefins incorporate renewable or recycled content through a mass balance approach and have been certified to the ISCC PLUS standard. CirculenRenew comes from biobased waste and residues, while CirculenRevive is produced from pyrolysis oil derived from plastic waste feedstock. Both ensure a more sustainable supply of materials.

Expand acrylic production

LyondellBasell has also strengthened its supply chain by making significant investments in its propylene production at the Channelview Complex near Houston. The construction of the new cracker is set to begin at the end of 2025, with operations expected to start by the end of 2028.

The company stated that the project is expected to create 750 construction jobs at peak and add 25 permanent positions, reinforcing LyondellBasell's long-term commitment to growth and stability.

According to LyondellBasell, the plant will produce approximately 400,000 metric tons of propylene annually, supporting the manufacture of polypropylene and propylene oxide, which are key materials for applications such as food packaging, medical devices, automotive parts, and household goods.

"This expansion enhances our ability to meet the growing customer demand while improving self-sufficiency and reducing market volatility," said Kim Foley, Executive Vice President of Global Olefins, Polyolefins, and Refining at LyondellBasell.