Mehrschichtbarrieren

Mehrschichtbarrieren, also known as multilayer barriers or laminates, are materials composed of two or more distinct layers bonded together to create a composite with enhanced properties. These layers are typically polymers, but can also include metals or ceramics. The primary purpose of a multilayer barrier is to combine the desirable characteristics of individual materials to achieve a performance that surpasses that of any single layer.

Common applications for multilayer barriers are found in packaging, particularly for food and pharmaceuticals, where they are crucial for protecting contents from external factors such as oxygen, moisture, and light. This protection extends shelf life and maintains product quality. For instance, a common food packaging laminate might consist of a layer of polyethylene for heat sealability, a layer of aluminum foil for excellent gas and light barrier, and a layer of polyester for printability and stiffness.

The manufacturing process for multilayer barriers often involves coextrusion, where multiple molten polymer streams are extruded simultaneously and fused together to form a single sheet. Lamination, which involves bonding pre-formed films using adhesives or heat, is another common method. The specific choice of layers and manufacturing technique depends on the intended application and the required barrier properties. The development of advanced multilayer barriers continues to focus on improving sustainability, such as incorporating recycled content or designing for easier recyclability.