Cellulose Films
Cellulose film begins life as a natural product - wood. This raw material is sourced exclusively from plantations operating sustainable forestry principles and our suppliers confirm with the environmental standard ISO 14000.
The process of converting wood pulp to film is, however, quite complex. First it undergoes a series of chemical processes to break the pulp down to a viscose liquid. This liquid is filtered and refiltered in order to minimise waste and maximise the purity of the material to ensure the best film quality possible.
The viscose is extruded and then cast along a series of rollers and baths, during which the film is cleaned and softened in order to ensure the right optical and mechanical properties for our customers' applications. Investment aimed at modernising the companies manufacturing practices has ensured the installation of state-of-the-art gas recovery systems. The waste gases collected are separated and reintroduced into the process as part of a closed loop re-cycling system.
Innovia Films has two processes for adding colour to cellulose film. Dye-bath technology is used when both colour and transparency are required. Alternatively pigment colour is added at the beginning of the casting process to produce speciality colours.
Un-coated cellulose films are highly permeable to water vapour whilst still providing an excellent barrier to micro-bacteria, flavours and aromas. They are naturally glossy, anti-static, provide excellent dead-fold characteristics and are receptive to printing inks. All cellulose film is heat-resistant.
Many grades of film are, however, coated, in order to refine and control these natural attributes for specific applications and for moisture barrier.