Dow Debuts DOWSIL™ 5-1050, a Fluorine-Free Silicone PPA for Blown and Stretch Film

DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

Developed for blown film and stretch film operations, this additive supports improved processing efficiency while responding to regulatory, environmental and consumer expectations.

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

has introduced DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

to serve growing demand in film packaging for fluorine-free polymer processing aids. The silicone-based additive is positioned as a replacement for conventional fluoropolymers, and it also stands out in reducing melt fracture and limiting die build-up on linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), supporting consistent production of high-quality films.

A reliable silicone-based polymer processing aid for shifting industry needs

Mubashir Ansari, Scientist in Technical Service and Development at Dow, noted that fluoropolymer processing aids have historically performed well across many film applications and processes; however, as those fluorine-containing options are phased out, film processors need alternatives with comparable effectiveness. Building on Dow’s expertise in silicones and polyethylene materials,

the company’s DOWSIL™ 5-1050 Polymer Processing Aid

gives the market a solution that complies with regulatory requirements without compromising performance. By pairing this innovation with Dow’s global supply capability and local technical support, Dow is committed to helping packaging customers advance steadily and keep succeeding in a changing market.

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

The product is designed for a broad range of film applications and resins, using polyethylene as a carrier with a silicone component. Supplied as a masterbatch, it can be integrated directly into existing extrusion lines; the technology has been validated at industrial scale and performs reliably. Its main benefits include:

Lower melt fracture and film haze: improves surface smoothness and enhances clarity and visual quality.

Less die build-up: helps reduce downtime frequency and waste generation.

Lower die pressure: improves extrusion efficiency.

Food-contact safety: meets requirements such as EU 10/2011 and US FDA 21 CFR 174.5.

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

Enabling safer packaging at scale

With decades of experience in compounding, extrusion and introducing silicone additives into plastic systems, Dow continues to develop innovations that help the packaging industry move toward 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 including packaging, infrastructure, transportation and consumer applications. Its global footprint, integrated assets and scale efficiencies, focused technology innovation, business leadership and commitment to sustainability underpin profitable growth and support a sustainable future. The company has manufacturing sites in 30 countries and regions and approximately 36,000 employees worldwide; its 2024 sales were about US$43 billion.

Source: China Packaging Network (pack.cn); original link: http://news.pack.cn/show-379776.html