ExxonMobil Collaborates with Reifenhäuser to Develop Stretch Hood Film with 35% PCR
ExxonMobil, one of the largest publicly traded international energy companies, uses technology and innovation to help meet the world's growing energy needs. The company recently launched its new ExxonMobil Signature Polymers portfolio brand, which focuses on delivering best-in-class service and partnerships within the polymers industry. ExxonMobil Signature Polymers unifies ExxonMobil's polyolefin products under a single brand, simplifying portfolio navigation and promoting enhanced collaboration across the value chain.
To address the problem of household-sourced PCR being too contaminated and inconsistent for high-performance stretch hood applications, ExxonMobil Signature Polymers collaborated with Reifenhäuser to develop a high-performance stretch hood film that incorporates up to 35% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.
The innovation combines advanced materials and process technology to transform lower-quality PCR into a high-performance packaging film. Key materials include:
- Exceed™ Tough+ m 0512 – high-performance polyethylene providing bubble stability, good openability features and high holding force.
- Vistamaxx™ 6102 – performance polymer that facilitates PCR incorporation by enhancing the film toughness.
- Exceed Tough+ m 0211 – low-MI high-performance polyethylene that can act as a gel grinder, further improving film performance and optics.
The PCR resin, Systalen LD-C12200, was provided by Der Grüne Punkt from post-consumer packaging waste collected through Germany’s “yellow bag” recycling system. Reifenhäuser’s twin-screw extruder technology ensures thorough mixing and homogenization of PCR blended into virgin resin(s). Additionally, the EVO Fusion line is equipped with an in-line degassing system that effectively removes volatiles (which tend to be particularly prevalent in household-sourced PCR), ensuring a bubble-free film that is capable of withstanding the high mechanical stresses of industrial packaging.
Key results include:
- Good holding force and elastic recovery – Despite the incorporation of lower-quality PCR derived from household sources, the film met the performance requirements, delivering good holding force and elastic recovery to ensure secure load containment and help protect goods during transit.
- Tear propagation resistance – The film delivered tear propagation resistance to ensure secure load containment and help protect goods during transit.
- Friction control, tear resistance, and load retention – The film was rigorously tested on the Lachenmeier hooding system, where it was evaluated against key performance metrics including friction control, tear resistance, and load retention.
This stretch hood film innovation has been named a finalist in the “Product Technology Innovation of the Year” category at the Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2026, which recognizes solutions that improve recyclability or enable the incorporation of recycled materials into manufacturing processes.
To check out the full case study, visit here.
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