Xylex resin is a polyester blend that, according to GE Advanced Materials, combines the best qualities of traditional packaging materials such polyesters and polycarbonates, including chemical resistance, superior flow, UV transparency, high-impact resistance, ductility, clarity and high temperature strength.
Its new Thermocomp resin, meanwhile, is a compound that provides designers with a heavier feel that communicates high quality. GE Advanced Materials said that clients are able to work with their customer innovation centre representatives to create a custom-tailored speciality compound with a range of specific gravities to choose from. The compounds are injection mouldable, colourable, plateable and, as lead-free materials, are more environmentally sensitive than many resin alternatives.
GE Advanced Materials uses patented Visualfx resin technology to enable designers to add a sparkle, shimmer or metallic quality to their packaging designs. Visualfx resins create colourful and exceptionally rich looking parts without the need for costly secondary paint and coating operations. Designers can take advantage of the extensive selection of more than 300,000 colours and effects, or work with colour specialists to develop their own unique colour and texture. Visualfx resins are available for injection moulding of solid parts or as a film material for use in in-mould decoration applications to achieve unique multi-layer effects and flow line free appearance.
"GE's proprietary technology for cosmetic packaging allows designers an added level of freedom to create a quality look and feel that will attract cosmetic consumers," said GE Advanced Materials Industry Manager for Performance Packaging, Rob de Jong. "Using this unique packaging solution, cosmetic designers can create eye-catching and stylish designs that stand up to cosmetic solvents."
The company said that the materials can also be used to create point-of-purchase display materials.