Big Muxima Group

Slip additives are internal lubricants incorporated into plastic films, coatings, and inks to reduce surface friction and improve handling properties. They function by migrating to the surface of the polymer over time (a process called blooming or exudation) to form a thin, lubricating layer. The most common chemistry for polyolefin films like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) is fatty acid amides, particularly erucamide and oleamide. These additives have a polar amide head that has an affinity for the polymer and a long, non-polar hydrocarbon tail that orients outward, creating a slippery surface. The concentration used is very low, typically between 0.05% and 0.3% by weight, as excessive amounts can cause unwanted haze or processing issues.

The primary application for slip additives is in the flexible packaging industry for food, consumer goods, and industrial products. They are essential for enabling high-speed packaging operations on form-fill-seal (FFS) machines, where low friction prevents film from sticking to metal guides and jaws, ensures smooth bag stacking, and allows for easy opening by consumers. Beyond packaging, they are used in synthetic fibers to improve spinnability and in masterbatches to aid polymer processing. The performance is measured by the coefficient of friction (COF), which manufacturers carefully control. A key consideration is the slip development time—the period required for the additive to fully bloom to the surface and achieve its target COF, which can range from hours to days after film production. This migration-dependent mechanism makes slip additives a dynamic, time-sensitive component crucial for the functionality and efficiency of countless plastic film products.