Dow unveils an alternative to fluoropolymer-based polymer processing aids for film packaging

Dow unveils an alternative to fluoropolymer-based polymer processing aids for film packaging

Engineered for blown and stretch film applications, DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid enhances processing efficiency while addressing regulatory, environmental and consumer pressures.

MIDLAND, Mich. - September 23, 2025 - Today, Dow (NYSE: DOW) announced the launch of DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid (PPA), designed to address the growing demand for film packaging manufactured without fluoropolymer-based PPAs. In addition to serving as an alternative to fluoro-based options, this technology offers primary benefits, among others, like melt fracture mitigation and die lip build up suppression in linear low density polyethylene grades, leading to high quality films.

A reliable PPA for a changing Industry
"Historically, fluoropolymer-containing PPAs worked efficiently for most film applications and other processes," said Mubashir Ansari, Technical Service & Development Scientist at Dow. "Now that those are being phased out, converters are looking for effective alternatives. With DOWSIL™ 5-1050 PPA, we've applied our technical experience in silicone and polyethylene materials to offer a regulatory-compliant option that doesn't compromise on performance. By pairing innovations like this with our global supply capabilities and local technical support, we aim to equip packaging customers with the confidence and resources to succeed in the evolving industry."

Key features and benefits of DOWSIL™ 5-1050 PPA
Engineered for a wide range of film applications and resins, DOWSIL™ 5-1050 PPA contains a silicone additive in a polyethylene carrier and is supplied as a masterbatch for ease of feeding into existing extrusion processes. This technology has demonstrated effectiveness at an industrial scale. Key performance benefits include:

• Reduced melt fracture and haze in film: Mitigates melt fracture resulting in smoother surface and better film optics for visual appeal.
• Die lip buildup reduction: Less downtime and scrap
• Lower die pressure: Enhances extrusion efficiency
• Food contact safety: Complies with European Commission Regulation (EU) 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 174.5
• Versatile incorporation: Can be incorporated via dry or melt blending

Supporting safer packaging at scale

With decades of experience in compounding, extrusion, and the integration of silicone additives into plastics, Dow has a long track record of developing innovations that support the packaging industry's transition toward safer, more sustainable materials. Sample and commercial scale quantities of DOWSIL™ 5-1050 PPA are available.

To learn more about DOWSIL™ 5-1050 PPA, visit https://www.dow.com/dowsil5-1050. To talk to an expert, visit https://www.dow.com/customersupport.

About Dow Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world's leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation, leading business positions and commitment to sustainability enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 30 countries and employ approximately 36,000 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2024. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us and our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world by visiting https://www.dow.com.

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