Dow Launches Silicone-Based Alternative to Fluoropolymer Processing Aids for Film Packaging

DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

Designed specifically for blown film and stretch film applications, it improves processing efficiency while addressing regulatory, environmental and consumer needs.

Shanghai, China, November 4, 2025 — Dow (NYSE: DOW)

today announced the launch of DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

to meet the market's growing demand for fluorine-free polymer processing aid film packaging solutions. The product is a silicone-based processing aid that can replace traditional fluoropolymers, and it also performs outstandingly in reducing melt fracture and reducing die build-up on linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), helping to produce high-quality films.

Reliable silicone-based polymer processing aids that meet evolving industry needs

"Fluoropolymer processing aids have long performed excellently in most film applications and other processes," said Mubashir Ansari, Scientist in Technical Service and Development at Dow. "As these fluoropolymer-based solutions are gradually phased out of the market, film processors urgently need equally effective alternatives. Leveraging Dow's technical expertise in silicones and polyethylene materials,

our DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

offers the market a solution that meets regulatory requirements without sacrificing performance. By combining such innovations with Dow's global supply capability and local technical support, we are committed to helping packaging customers move forward steadily and continue to succeed in a constantly changing market environment."

Key features and benefits of DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid is designed for a wide range of film applications and resins. It uses polyethylene as a carrier with a silicone component added. The product is supplied in masterbatch form, making it easy to use directly in existing extrusion processes. The technology has been validated at industrial scale and performs reliably. Key benefits include:

Reduced melt fracture and film haze: enhances film surface smoothness, improving clarity and visual texture.

Reduced die build-up: lowers downtime frequency and reduces waste generation.

Lower die pressure: improves extrusion efficiency.

Food-contact safety: complies with the requirements of regulations such as EU 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 174.5.

Flexible addition methods: can be dry-blended or melt-blended with LLDPE resin.

Supporting safer, scalable packaging production

Drawing on decades of experience in compounding, extrusion and the introduction of silicone additives into plastic systems, Dow is committed to developing innovative solutions that can help the packaging industry transition to safer, more sustainable materials.

DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

is now available in sample and production-scale quantities.

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, transportation and consumer applications. Our global footprint, integrated assets and scale efficiencies, focused technology innovation, business leadership and commitment to sustainability ensure that we can deliver profitable growth and help build a sustainable future. We have manufacturing sites in 30 countries and regions, with approximately 36,000 employees worldwide. Dow achieved sales of approximately US$43 billion in 2024.

——This article is reprinted from China Packaging Network (pack.cn). Original link: http://news.pack.cn/show-379776.html