Biaxially oriented laminated polyester film, process for its manufacture and use of it for the packaging of food

The invention relates to a biaxially oriented polyester film with very good optical properties and good processing behavior, which has a high oxygen barrier after metallization or after being coated with oxidic materials, constructed from at least one base layer B and at least one layer A applied to this base layer, wherein this layer A has a defined number of elevations with a defined height and a defined diameter. The invention further relates to a process for producing the film and its use.

Biaxially oriented polyester films are used in the packaging or industrial sector mainly where their advantageous properties, ie a good appearance, high mechanical strength, a good barrier effect, especially against gases, good dimensional stability in heat and excellent flatness are needed.

For example, for promotional purposes, it is further desirable, for promotional reasons, to improve the optical properties of the polyester films, in particular the gloss and the film haze, while the film still has good processability. It is also desirable to improve the barrier properties of polyester films, for example to get into new applications.

It is shown in the prior art how the optical properties, in particular the gloss and the haze, of biaxially oriented polyester films can be improved.

EP-A-0 514 129 discloses a transparent multilayer film comprising a primary layer substrate of polymeric material having on at least one of its surfaces a secondary layer of polymeric material comprising glass beads and silica particles in certain concentrations and in certain size distributions. The secondary layer can be on or be arranged on both sides of the primary layer substrate. With the film, the haze and the processing properties are improved, a lesson teaches to improve the gloss and the barrier properties of the film, however, does not convey. There is also no indication in the document as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

EP 0 604 057 discloses a transparent multilayer film comprising a primary layer substrate of polymeric material which is substantially free of fillers which has at least on one of its surfaces a secondary layer of polymeric material having as filler silicone resin in a concentration contains from 100 to 1000 ppm and has a mean particle diameter of 1.5 to 12.5 microns. A disadvantage of the silicone particles is that they are comparatively expensive and are not an acceptable solution for the packaging market. In addition, films provided with such pigments tend to be more telescopable during winding. Also in this step, there are no indications as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

In many cases, food packaging requires a high barrier to gases, water vapor and flavorings (equivalent to low permeability or low permeation). A common method to produce such packaging is to steam or metallize the plastic foils used with aluminum in a high vacuum. Further common methods consist in the films with oxidic materials (eg SiO_x, or Al_xO_y) to coat. These are essentially transparent coatings.

The barrier effect against the above-mentioned substances depends essentially on the type of polymers in the film and the quality of the applied barrier layers. Thus, with metallized, biaxially oriented polyester films a very high barrier effect against gases, such as oxygen and flavorings achieved. With respect to water vapor, they are achieved with metallized, biaxially oriented polypropylene films.

Due to their good barrier properties are packed with metallized or oxidic coated films, in particular food and luxury foods in which by long storage or transport times there is a risk that in the case of an insufficient barrier spoil the packaged food, become rancid or lose flavor, for example with coffee, fatty snacks (nuts, chips, etc.) or carbonated drinks (in pouches).

If polyester films with a vapor-deposited aluminum layer or with applied oxidic layers are to be used as packaging material, then they are generally part of a multilayer composite film (laminate). Loot produced from it can be z. B. fill on a vertical tubular bag, form, fill and seal machine (vffs). The prey will be on its inside (ie sealed on the side facing the contents), wherein the sealing layer is usually made of polyethylene or polypropylene. The film composite has the following typical structure: polyester layer / aluminum or oxide layer / adhesive layer / sealing layer. With a thickness of the laminate of about 50 to 150 microns, the metal or oxide layer is only 10 to 80 nm thick. This very thin functional layer is already sufficient to achieve adequate light protection and very good barrier properties.

The oxygen barrier or the oxygen permeability is usually measured not on the laminate or the package itself, but on the metallized polyester film. In order to ensure the quality of the food or luxury food even with longer storage times, the oxygen permeability (equal to permeation) of the metallized film must not exceed 2 cm³/ m² bar d, but especially not more than 1.5 cm³/ m² bar d amount. In the future, the demand of the packaging industry will go in the direction of an even further increased barrier, permeation values ​​of the metallized or oxide-coated films of significantly less than 1.0 cm³/ m² be aimed at in the bar.

According to the state of the art, it is neither sufficiently known what the barrier effect of metallized or oxide-coated polyester films is based in detail nor how is this to be decisively improved. Important influencing factors are obviously the substrate surface, the type of substrate polymer and its morphology. Generally, it is believed that smooth substrate surfaces provide better barrier properties.

In "Thin Solids Films" 204 (1991), pp. 203-216, Weiss et al. Investigated the influence of the roughness of a substrate layer on the permeation. For this purpose, polyester films were coated with varnish, which contained titanium dioxide particles in different concentrations. In the experiments described, the concentration of titanium dioxide particles in the varnish was varied between 2 and 20% by weight. The roughness R_a The coated substrate surface could be varied with this method from 43 nm (unpainted and lacquered film, without titanium dioxide) to 124 nm. In his experiments, with increasing roughness (increasing TiO₂ Part) of the painted surface clearly higher oxygen permeabilities after the aluminum vaporization. However, the largest jump in oxygen permeability was noted for the coated film (0% by weight) over the unpainted film. In both cases, however, the roughness of the substrate surface was the same. Just by painting the film, the barrier deteriorated by about 0.43 cm³/ m² d bar (plain film) to about 19 cm³/ m² d bar (painted foil). Another uncertainty regarding the transferability of this teaching to commercial products arises from the fact that the aluminum layer was applied by means of laboratory evaporator. In doing so, substantially low permeation levels are achieved compared to the industrial metallizer, and the influence of the substrate surface on the barrier properties is blurred.

Further detailed investigation results on the influence of the substrate surface of polyester films on the barrier properties can be found in the dissertation of H. Utz (Technische Universität München 1995: "Barrier Properties of Aluminum-Baked Plastic Films").

According to Utz's investigations (page 66, ff), the surface roughness (center roughness R_a) of the PET film and the oxygen barrier are not directly related. The particularly smoothly highlighted video film with a center roughness value of R_a = 22 nm has eg 1.3 cm³/ m² bar d one with the much rougher PET II film (R_a = 220 nm) comparable oxygen permeability of 1.2 cm³/ m² bar d.

EP-A-0 124 291 describes a monolayer biaxially oriented polyester film for magnetic recording tapes characterized by the following surface properties<ul id="ul0001" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) the mean roughness R_a is 1 nm to 16 nm,</li><li>b) the friction coefficient μk is between 0.01 to 0.20 and</li><li>c) between R_a and μk, the following relationship exists</li></ul><maths id="math0001" num=""><math display="block"><mrow><msub><mrow><mtext>0.1 &lt;10 * R</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>a</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> + μk &lt;0.31.</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0001.tif" /></maths>

These properties are achieved by using TiO₂Particles (anatase) or TiO₂- and CaCO₃Particles produced in a proportion by weight of 0.1 to 0.5% or 0.1 to 0.3%. The diameter of the TiO₂Particles is between 0.1 and 0.5 microns. The surface of this film is formed by a plurality of protrusions which follow a distribution such that the graph described by the following relationship<maths id="math0002" num=""><math display="block"><mrow><mtext>log y = -8.0 x + 4.34, y&gt; 10</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0002.tif" /></maths> not to be crossed. In this equation, x (μm) means a distance in the height direction from a standard level and y the number of protrusions (number / mm²) when the elevations are cut at a height of x. The distribution of the surveys is determined with a standard roughness meter. While the teaching of this document improves the processing properties of the film, it does not impart any teaching on improving the whole, the haze and the barrier properties of the film. Also, there are no indications in the step as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

EP-A-0 490 665 A1 describes a monolayer, biaxially oriented polyester film for magnetic recording tapes which<ul id="ul0002" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) 0.05 to 1.0 wt .-% ω-alumina having an average particle diameter in the range of 0.02 to 0.3 microns, and</li><li>b) 0.01 to 1.5 wt .-% of inert particles other than ω-alumina having an average particle diameter in the range of 0.1 to 1.5 microns, said particles being larger than the ω-alumina particles.</li></ul>

The surface of this film is formed by a large number of protrusions / protrusions, due to the relationship<maths id="math0003" num=""><math display="block"><mrow><mtext>-11.4 x + 4 &lt;log y &lt;-10.0 x + 5 y&gt; 30, x&gt; 0.05 μm</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0003.tif" /></maths> to be discribed. In this equation, x (μm) means a height in the vertical direction from a standard level and y the number of protrusions (number / mm²) when the elevations are cut at a height of x. The distribution of the elevations is measured as in EP-A-0124291. With regard to improving the gloss, the haze and the barrier properties, this document does not teach anything like the one mentioned above. There is also no indication as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

According to the state of the art, films are furthermore known which are distinguished by the fact that their two surfaces are of different roughness (dual surface). These films are particularly suitable for magnetic recording media and are characterized by different topographies (eg Surface A smooth, surface B rough). In general, the teaching of these steps improves the processing properties of the film but not the optical properties. In particular, however, these documents provide no teaching for improving the barrier properties of the film.

DE-A-1694404 describes a laminate having a plurality of layers of an oriented crystallizable thermoplastic film wherein at least one of the outer layers contains an additive. The additives are conventional inert inorganic or organic particles, which in the case of inert particles such as SiO₂ in a concentration of 1 to 25 wt .-% of the outer layers are added. The particle size is 2 to 20 microns. The laminates can eg for decorative purposes with aluminum metallized or used for magnetic tapes. Although the processing properties and the haze of the film can be improved with the teaching of this document, a step to improve the gloss and the barrier properties of the film does not impart the step. Also, there are no indications in the step as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

DE-A-2230970 describes a magnetic recording medium composed of a biaxially oriented polyester film and a thin magnetic metallic layer on the surface A of the polyester film. The film is characterized in that it<ul id="ul0003" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) contains a coated surface A, which is particle-free and<ul id="ul0004" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>i) is at least 4 microns thick or</li><li>ii) at least 50% of the thickness of the entire film layer; and</li></ul></li><li>b) contains a particle-containing second layer with a relatively rough surface, the<ul id="ul0005" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>i) at least 1% of individual particles of a particular polymer A and</li><li>ii) contains at least 1% of individual particles of a particular polymer B.</li></ul></li></ul>

A disadvantage of the film is that the surface A is prone to blocking, so that a good processing of the film is not given. A teaching to improve the gloss, haze and barrier properties of the film is not shown in the specification. Again, there is no indication in the Scripture as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

EP-B-0 061 769 describes a magnetic recording medium composed of a biaxially oriented polyester film and a thin magnetic metallic layer on the surface A of the polyester film. Optionally, a lubricant layer is present on the other surface B of the polyester film. The film is characterized in that the coated surface A<ul id="ul0006" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) an average roughness R_a (Peak-to-valley value) of not more than 5 nm (60 nm),</li><li>b) the number of protrusions with a height of 0.27 to 0.54 microns 0 to 0.2 / mm² is and</li><li>c) is free of protrusions with a height greater than 0.54 microns.</li></ul>

A disadvantage of the film is that the surface A is prone to blocking, so that a good processing of the film is not given. A teaching to improve the gloss, haze and barrier properties of the film is not shown in the specification. There is also no indication in the document as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

EP-B-0 088 635 describes a coextruded biaxially oriented polyester film having at least two layers, one layer of which consists of thermoplastic resin, and one layer of B containing thermoplastic resin and fine particles.

The film is characterized in that the surface roughness R_a the outer surface of layer A is less than 5 nm and the outer surface of layer B is either<ul id="ul0007" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>i) a surface having a surface roughness R_a is from 5 to 40 nm and has a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions arranged in a certain arrangement or</li><li>ii) is a surface having protrusions formed on a flat surface and covered with a layer C made of a lubricant and having a surface roughness R_a from 5 to 40 nm.</li></ul>

A disadvantage of this film surface is that it blocks against itself and against certain other surfaces (eg rubber rollers). The film can not be processed economically, especially when metallizing in a vacuum, this film tends to tears due to the high block tendency, which can be associated with great economic damage. The film is not suitable in the sense of the problem to be solved. In addition, the haze of the film is in need of improvement.

EP-B-0 502 745 describes a coextruded biaxially oriented polyester film having at least three layers of which an outer layer A<ul id="ul0008" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) contains inorganic particles having an average primary particle size D in the range of 1 to 100 nm, which satisfies the equation D &lt;T &lt;200D, where T is the thickness of the layer A,</li><li>b) particles B having an average primary particle size D1 in the range of 0.3 to 2 microns, wherein the primary particle size distribution has a relative standard deviation of at most 0.6, and</li><li>c) the average primary particle size D of the particles A is less than the average primary particle size D1 of the particles B.</li></ul>

By applying the teaching of this document, in particular the processing behavior of the film is improved. A teaching for improving the gloss, the haze and the barrier properties of the film is not shown in the document. There is also no indication in the document as to how the topography of such a film should be adjusted for the simultaneous improvement of gloss and oxygen barrier.

Furthermore, it is known that the oxygen barrier can be improved by a special selection of the polymers for the film serving as the substrate (Schricker, G .: Metallized plastic films for higher-value packaging.) In: ICI 5^th International Metallizing Symposium 1986, Cannes). Particularly suitable are, for example, polyesters, especially those of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid or of ethylene glycol, terephthalic acid and naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid. Besides, polyamides, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers (EVOH) and polyvinylidene chloride are also advantageously usable. For example, US Pat. No. 5,506,014 describes a copolyester of (a) 45 to 85 mol% of terephthalic acid, (b) 10 to 40 mol% of naphthalenedicarboxylic acid and (c) 5 to 15 mol% of a dicarboxylic acid having 2 to 8 Carbon atoms and (d) ethylene glycol (the mole percent refers to the total amount of dicarboxylic acids). This polyester is said to be characterized by improved barrier properties against gases. It is used among others for the production of bottles or containers as well as foils of different thicknesses. A disadvantage of the above raw materials is that they are compared to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) significantly more expensive or unsuitable for use in food packaging or are not officially approved.

The object of the present invention was therefore to provide a co-extruded, biaxially oriented polyester film which is distinguished by very good optical properties, ie a low haze and in particular a high gloss, at least one film surface (hereinafter referred to as film surface A). Such a surface A would be, for example particularly suitable for printing or for metallization. The high gloss of the film is transferred to the print and the metal layer, thus ensuring a particularly brilliant appearance of the packaging. This applies both to the printing of the film in reverse printing and in frontal printing. In the production of stamping foils in which the metal layer of the polyester film on a support of eg Cardboard, paper or plastic is transferred, the high metallic gloss remains on the support and gives the embossing a particularly promotional effect appearance.

At the same time, after a metallization or after a coating with oxidic materials of the surface A, the film should have a high oxygen barrier. In addition, it should be characterized by good manufacturability and processability. In summary, the object was to provide a film with the following feature combination:<ul id="ul0009" list-style="dash" compact="compact"><li>high gloss, in particular the film surface A</li><li>low turbidity</li><li>low oxygen permeation of the film after metallization or after coating with oxidic materials of the film surface A</li><li>low coefficients of friction (no blocking of the film against itself).</li></ul>

The gloss of the film surface A should be greater than 180 and the haze of the film should be less than 1.5. The surface of side A should be such that it does not block against itself (blocking takes place when the coefficient of friction is greater than 1 or where points of discontinuity occur in the friction force measurement in the friction force-distance measurement). The surface of the other side should have a coefficient of friction that is less than 0.5.

Low oxygen permeation in the present case means that less than 0.5 cm through the metallized or the oxide-coated film³ Oxygen per square meter and per day should diffuse when air at a pressure of 1 bar on it loads.

The film should be at least equivalent to the known packaging films of this type in the other properties. It should, for example, be simple and inexpensive to produce, and can be processed well on conventional machines (ie, for example, not blocking).

The object is achieved by a coextruded, biaxially oriented polyester film with a base layer B, which consists of at least 80 wt .-% of a thermoplastic polyester and one or more further layers, wherein at least one outer layer A contains internal and / or inert particles and this outer layer having a number of protrusions N per mm² Film surface, which are correlated with their respective heights h and diameter d via the following equations<maths id="math0004" num="(1)"><math display="block"><mrow><msup><mrow><mtext>log N / mm</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>2</mtext></mrow></msup><msub><mrow><mtext> &lt;A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>H</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>H</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> * log h / μm, 0.01 μm &lt;h &lt;10 μm</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0004.tif" /></maths><ul id="ul0010" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>A_H = 1.4; B_H = 2.5</li></ul><maths id="math0005" num="(2)"><math display="block"><mrow><msup><mrow><mtext>log N / mm</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>2</mtext></mrow></msup><msub><mrow><mtext> &lt;A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> * log d / μm, 0.4 μm &lt;d &lt;10 μm</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0005.tif" /></maths><ul id="ul0011" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>A_d = 3.4; B_d = 2.4</li></ul>

For the purposes of the present invention, elevations / projections are understood to mean conical elevations / projections which protrude from the planar film surface.

Internal particles are understood as meaning catalyst residues which remain in the raw material during the production of the polyester raw material.

By inert particles are meant particles which are added to the raw material additively, for example during its production.

In order to achieve high oxygen barriers metallized or oxide coated films according to the task according to the equations (1) and (2), the number of protrusions / projections N per mm² Film surface A below a certain numerical value. This numerical value is clearly defined by the right sides of equations (1) and (2) as a function of the height h and the diameter d of the protrusions.

Biaxially oriented polyester films described by the above equation are characterized by a comparatively small number of protrusions / protrusions of the layer A to be metallized or oxidized. The number of protrusions / protrusions is significantly lower in the range h &lt;0.5 μm, especially in the range h &lt;0.4 μm and very particularly in the range h &lt;0.3 μm, as is known from the prior art.

Decisive for the achievement of high oxygen barriers of metallized or oxidically coated films are therefore not low roughness values ​​R_a or R_zbut rather a low density of protrusions N / mm² on the surface A. In Fig. 1, a schematic comparison is shown between surfaces which are<ul id="ul0012" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) characterized by a good oxygen barrier (low permeation values) according to the present invention (FIG. 1a) and</li><li>b) characterized by a low oxygen barrier (high permeation values) (FIG. 1b).</li></ul>

Parameter in the representation is the mean roughness value R_acalculated according to the following formula<maths id="math0006" num=""><math display="block"><mrow><msub><mrow><mtext mathvariant="italic">R</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext mathvariant="italic">a</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> = 1 /</mtext><mtext mathvariant="italic">L</mtext><mtext> * </mtext><apply>&lt;int /&gt;<lowlimit><mtext mathvariant="italic">O</mtext></lowlimit><uplimit><mtext mathvariant="italic">L</mtext></uplimit><mrow><mtext></mtext><mtext mathvariant="italic">f</mtext><mtext>(</mtext><mtext mathvariant="italic">x</mtext><mtext>) * </mtext><mtext mathvariant="italic">dx</mtext></mrow></apply></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0006.tif" /></maths>

Is the density of the protrusions N / mm² small (FIG. 1a), the barrier in the present sense is good, but if the density of the elevations / projections is large (FIG. 1b), then the barrier is poor in the present sense. From the graph it is further apparent that the R_aValue is in principle without influence on the barrier properties. A smooth foil (eg R_a &lt;10 nm) can have a very poor barrier, provided that the number of protrusions / protrusions N / mm² is greater than calculated according to equations (1) and (2). In this case, the surface / surface layer contains a lot of fine particles, the amount of R_aValue does not provide a significant contribution. Such a surface is conceivably unsuitable for achieving high barrier values. On the other hand, film surfaces which have comparatively few elevations / protrusions N per unit area of ​​layer A are very well suited for achieving high barrier values. It is rather of minor importance whether the protrusions are caused by large particles / particles or by small particles / particles.

While the R_a Values ​​for the barrier properties have no practical significance, then the R_a Values ​​for the processing of the film of the invention of practical importance. On the inventive film surface A with improved processability, the R is_aValue greater than 6 nm, preferably greater than 8 nm and particularly preferably greater than 10 nm.

The R_aValues ​​of the film surface A according to the invention are not greater than 100 nm, advantageously less than 80 nm and particularly advantageously less than 70 nm.

Are the R_aValues ​​of the film surface according to the invention smaller than 6 nm, the processing, in particular the winding of the film becomes problematic. Are the R_aValues ​​of the film surface of the invention greater than 100 nm, the abrasion resistance of this surface is worse.

If the number of elevations N normalized to the surface on the layer A of the film to be metallized or oxidized is greater than the right sides of Equations (1) or (2), the oxygen permeation is greater than 0.5 cm³/ m² bar d, which is undesirable according to the present task. Furthermore, the gloss of this film surface (in the unmetallized or uncoated state) then no longer as high as it is also desired according to the present task.

In a preferred embodiment of the film according to the invention, the constant A has_H the aforementioned equation (1) the value A_H = 1.18 and in a particularly preferred embodiment the value A_H = 1.0. In a likewise preferred embodiment of the film according to the invention, the constant B has_H the aforementioned equation (1) the value B_H = 2.2 and in a particularly preferred embodiment the value B_H = 2.1.

In a preferred embodiment of the film according to the invention, the constant A has_d the aforementioned equation (2) the value A_d = 3.0 and in a particularly preferred embodiment the value A_d = 2.6. In a likewise preferred embodiment, the constant B has_d the aforementioned equation (2) the value B_d = 2.3 and in a particularly preferred embodiment the value B_d = 2.2.

In the preferred and particularly preferred embodiments, the layer A according to the invention has pronounced few protrusions / protrusions N per surface unit. The metallized or oxidically coated film is characterized in this case by a particularly good oxygen barrier. The permeation values ​​of the metallized or oxide coated film are less than 0.45 cm in the preferred embodiment³/ m² bar d and in the most preferred embodiment less than 0.40 cm³/ m² bar d. Also, the gloss of this page then assumes very high values. The gloss of this film side (in the unmetallized or non-coated state) is greater than 200 in the particularly preferred embodiment.

In Figure 2, the equations (1) and (2) are shown graphically. In a double logarithmic representation, both relations are straight lines which are described by the given numerical values.

Relationships similar to equations (1) and (2) are given in the prior art EP-A-0 124 291 and EP-A-0 490 665, respectively. As already mentioned, however, these documents claim films having excellent sliding properties, caused by many very small elevations ("very small protuberances"). (page 7)) containing many inert fine particles (page 9), which is not the case with the films of the present invention.

In addition, the measuring method used in the prior art differs significantly from the measuring method used in this application (cf. Description of the measuring method on pages 31/32). Accordingly, the topographies of the film surfaces can also be different, as can be seen from the comparison of the graphs (FIG. 3) and the comparative examples. To further illustrate the differences between the methods of measurement and the resulting differences in the topography of the films, a light micrograph (DIC, Differential Interference Contrast) on a polyester film is shown in FIG. This is an incident light image of a polyester film filled with pigments. In the method used here (according to the invention), as described on pages 31/32, all elevations / projections are recorded by means of a scanning electron microscope and evaluated with an image analysis method. In contrast, in the prior art measuring method, a needle is used to scan the surface at a certain distance. The needle leaves straight tracks, as can be seen in the picture. Furthermore, the picture clearly shows that in this method<ul id="ul0013" list-style="dash" compact="compact"><li>only a few pigments are detected and</li><li>the pigments are only taken by accident.</li></ul>

The method according to the prior art is thus not reproducible and leads to false statements.

By means of the comparative examples, it is shown quantitatively that the present films according to the invention have markedly different surface topographies in comparison with the prior art.

The subclaims specify preferred embodiments of the invention, which are additionally explained below.

According to the invention, the film is at least two layers. It then comprises as layers a layer B and the inventive layer A. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the film is constructed in three layers and has on one side of the layer B (= base layer) the layer A and on the other side of the layer B, a further layer of polyethylene terephthalate C, which for the production and processing the film contains beneficial pigments. In this case, the two layers A and C form the outer layers A and C.

In principle, different raw materials can be used for the materials of the different layers. However, it is preferred to prepare the individual layers based on polyester raw materials.

The base layer B of the film is preferably at least 90 wt .-% of a thermoplastic polyester. Suitable for this are polyesters of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid (= polyethylene terephthalate, PET), of ethylene glycol and naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid (= polyethylene-2,6-naphthalate, PEN), of 1,4-bis-hydroxymethylcyclohexane and terephthalic acid [= Poly (1,4-cyclohexanedimethylene terephthalate, PCDT) and ethylene glycol, naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid and biphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid (= polyethylene-2,6-naphthalate bibenzoate, PENBB). Particular preference is given to polyesters which consist of at least 90 mol%, preferably at least 95 mol%, of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid units or of ethylene glycol and naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid units. The remaining monomer units are derived from other aliphatic, cycloaliphatic or aromatic diols or Dicarboxylic acids, as they may also occur in the layer A (or the layer C).

Suitable other aliphatic diols are, for example, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, aliphatic glycols of the general formula HO- (CH₂)_n-OH, where n is an integer from 3 to 6 (in particular propane-1,3-diol, butane-1,4-diol, pentane-1,5-diol and hexane-1,6-diol) or branched aliphatic glycols with up to 6 carbon atoms. Of the cycloaliphatic diols, mention may be made of cyclohexanediols (in particular cyclohexane-1,4-diol). Suitable other aromatic diols correspond for example to the formula HO-C₆H₄XC₆H₄-OH, where X is -CH₂-, -C (CH₃)₂-, -C (CF₃)₂-, -O-, -S- or -SO₂- stands. In addition, bisphenols of the formula HO-C₆H₄-C₆H₄-OH well suited.

Other aromatic dicarboxylic acids are preferably benzenedicarboxylic acids, naphthalenedicarboxylic acids (for example naphthalene-1,4- or 1,6-dicarboxylic acid), biphenyl-x, x'-dicarboxylic acids (in particular biphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid), diphenylacetylene-x, x ' dicarboxylic acids (especially diphenylacetylene-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid) or stilbene-x, x'-dicarboxylic acids. Of the cycloaliphatic dicarboxylic acids, mention may be made of cyclohexanedicarboxylic acids (in particular cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylic acid). Of the aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, the (C₃-C₁₉Alkanedioic acids are particularly suitable, wherein the alkane moiety may be straight-chain or branched.

The preparation of the polyester can be carried out by the transesterification process. It is based on dicarboxylic acid esters and diols, which are reacted with the usual transesterification catalysts, such as zinc, calcium, lithium, magnesium and manganese salts. The intermediates are then polycondensed in the presence of commonly used polycondensation catalysts, such as antimony trioxide or titanium salts. The preparation can also be carried out by the direct esterification process in the presence of polycondensation catalysts. It starts directly from the dicarboxylic acids and diols.

Particularly suitable processes have proven to be those in which transesterification catalysts are used in which only a few and / or only small protrusions / projections are produced on the layer A of the film. Magnesium and manganese salts are particularly preferred here. These transesterification catalysts are preferably used in the preparation of the base raw material, but more preferably in the production of the raw material for the layer A.

Films with the required topography (equations (1) and (2)) are obtained when raw materials (in particular for the novel layer A) are used, for example using Mn, Mg or Ca transesterification catalysts in which the Mn content is in the range of 50 to 200 ppm or the Mg content in the range of 100 to 300 ppm or the Ca content in the range of 50 to 300 ppm. As a result, internal particles are produced which lead to films with the surface according to the invention. But there are also other transesterification catalysts can be used.

The concentrations of transesterification catalysts given here are based on raw materials for layer A according to the invention, in which no additional inert particles are used. With the addition of inert particles, the content of internal particles is expediently reduced.

For the layer A, in principle the same polymers can be used as for the base layer. In addition, layer A may also contain other materials, in which case layer A preferably consists of a mixture of polymers, a copolymer or a homopolymer containing ethylene-2,6-naphthalate units and ethylene terephthalate units. Up to 10 mol% of the polymers may consist of other comonomers (see above).

For the other layer (cover layer C) or for any interlayers present, it is possible in principle to use the same polymers as described above for the base layer and the layer A.

For the processing of the polymers, it has proved to be favorable to choose the polymers for the base layer and the other layer (s) such that the viscosities of the respective polymer melts do not differ too much. In the other case is to be expected with additional projections / projections, with flow disturbances or with banding on the finished film. For the description of the viscosity ranges of the two melts a modified solvent viscosity (SV value or "solution viscosity") is used. For commercially available polyethylene terephthalates which are suitable for producing biaxially oriented films, the SV values ​​are in the range from 600 to 1000. In order to ensure perfect quality of the film in the sense of the present invention, the SV value of the polymers for the layers A or C in the range from 500 to 1200 should preferably be in the range from 550 to 1150, particularly preferably in the range from 600 to 1000 , If necessary, solid phase condensation can be carried out on the respective granules to adjust the required SV values ​​of the materials. The SV values ​​of the polymer melts for the base layer and the other layer (s) should not differ by more than 200, preferably not more than 150, but in particular not more than 100 units.

The base layer and the other layer (s) may additionally contain conventional additives, such as, for example, stabilizers and / or antiblocking agents. They are expediently added to the polymer or the polymer mixture before melting. Stabilizers used are, for example, phosphorus compounds, such as phosphoric acid or phosphoric acid esters.

Typical antiblocking agents (also referred to as pigments in this context) are inorganic and / or organic particles, for example calcium carbonate, amorphous silica, talc, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, lithium phosphate, calcium phosphate, magnesium phosphate, aluminum oxide, LiF, calcium, barium , Zinc or manganese salts of the dicarboxylic acids used, carbon black, titanium dioxide, kaolin or crosslinked polystyrene or acrylate particles.

As additives it is also possible to choose mixtures of two or more different antiblocking centers or mixtures of antiblocking agents of the same composition but different particle size. The particles can the individual layers in the respective advantageous concentrations, eg be added as a glycolic dispersion during the polycondensation or via masterbatches in the extrusion. Pigment concentrations of from 0 to 5% by weight have proven particularly suitable. A detailed description of the antiblocking agents which can be used can be found, for example, in EP-A-0 602 964.

The inventive layer A is filled to fulfill the equations (1) to (2) generally little or not at all with inert pigments. The concentration of the inert particles in the layer A is between 0 and 0.08 wt .-%, preferably between 0 and 0.065 wt .-%, in particular between 0 and 0.05 wt .-% and most preferably between 0 and 0, 04 wt .-% and depends essentially on the size of the particles used. Preferred particles are SiO₂ in colloidal and chain-like form. The particle diameters of the particles used are in principle not restricted. For the achievement of the object, it has proved to be favorable, particles having an average primary particle diameter of less than 60 nm, preferably less than 55 nm and more preferably less than 50 nm and / or particles having a mean primary particle diameter of greater than 1 micron, preferably greater than 1.5 microns and more preferably greater than 2 microns to use.

In the case where no inert particles are added to the layer A, it should be ensured, for example, by suitable selection and concentration of the catalysts in the transesterification or polymerization reaction, that blocking of the surface A against itself can be avoided by the precipitates that form ,

When selecting the pigments, the pigment diameter and the pigment concentration for the other layer (s) (eg layer B for a two-layer film or base layer B and cover layer C for a three-layer film), care must be taken that the Pigmentation in these layers and the layer thicknesses of these layers is chosen so that the equations (1) to (5) are not violated.

The pigmentation of the individual layers which do not affect layer A can then be very different and depend essentially on the film structure (layer structure) and the requirements of the film with regard to achieving the further optical properties (haze) and the manufacturing and processing behavior.

If, for example, the preferred three-layered film with the base layer B and the two outer layers A and C is concerned, the particle concentration in the base layer B is preferably lower than in the second outer layer C. The pigmentation in the base layer B should be chosen so that it does not have a lasting effect on the number of protrusions / protrusions N in the cover layer according to the invention. In the case of a three-layer film of the stated type, the particle concentration in the base layer B is between 0 and 0.06% by weight, preferably between 0 and 0.04% by weight, in particular between 0 and 0.03% by weight and completely preferably between 0 and 0.02 wt .-% are. The particle diameter of the particles used is in principle not restricted, but particles with an average diameter of greater than 1 μm are particularly preferred.

If the film has a two-layer structure, the layer A making up more than 50%, in particular more than 65% and particularly preferably more than 80% of the total thickness of the film, the layer B can definitely be pigmented more strongly (higher pigment concentration) than in the other case , in which the layer thickness of the layer A is comparatively small (&lt;50%).

The polyester film according to the invention is constructed in three layers in a particularly preferred embodiment and then still contains a layer C. The two layers A and C then form the outer layers A and C. Structure, thickness and composition of the second cover layer C can be selected independently of the existing cover layer A, wherein the second cover layer may also contain the aforementioned polymers or polymer blends, but which need not be identical to that of the first cover layer. The second topcoat may also contain other common topcoat polymers. This second topcoat generally contains more pigments (ie higher pigment concentrations) than the first cover layer A according to the invention. The pigment concentration in this second cover layer is between 0.02 and 0.4%, advantageously between 0.025 and 0.3%, in particular between 0.03 and 0.2% and most preferably between 0.035 and 0.15%. It is aimed, for example according to the desired processing behavior of the film. The type of pigment (s), the pigment concentration (s) and the particle concentration (s), as well as the layer thickness ratios, are preferably chosen so as to give a good appearance, as well as a good producibility and processability of the film.

It has proved favorable to describe the manufacturability and processability of the film by the following parameters of page C.<ul id="ul0014" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) average roughness R_{a, C}</li><li>b) static friction μ_C this side against yourself and through the</li><li>c) Number of surveys / projections N_C/ mm²,</li></ul>

It is advantageous if the film is designed such that on this surface of the invention opposite cover layer C (or B, in a two-layer film)<ul id="ul0015" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>a) the R_aValue between 20 and 100 nm</li><li>b) the static friction μ_C this layer against itself less than 0.5 and</li><li>c) the number of surveys / projections N_C/ mm² through the equations</li></ul><maths id="math0007" num="(3)"><math display="block"><mrow><msub><mrow><mtext>A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>h2</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>h2</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> * log h / μm &lt;N</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>C</mtext></mrow></msub><msup><mrow><mtext>/ mm</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>2</mtext></mrow></msup><msub><mrow><mtext> &lt;A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>h3</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>h3</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> * log h / μm 0.01 μm &lt;h &lt;10 μm</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0007.tif" /></maths><ul id="ul0016" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>A_h2 = -1,000; B_h2 = 3.70</li><li>A_h3 = 2.477; B_h3 = 2.22</li></ul><maths id="math0008" num="(4)"><math display="block"><mrow><msub><mrow><mtext>A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d2</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d2</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> * log d / μm &lt;N</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>C</mtext></mrow></msub><msup><mrow><mtext>/ mm</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>2</mtext></mrow></msup><msub><mrow><mtext> &lt;A</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d3</mtext></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mtext> - B</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>d3</mtext></mrow></msub><mtext> * log d / μm 0.4 μm &lt;d &lt;10 μm</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0008.tif" /></maths><ul id="ul0017" list-style="none" compact="compact"><li>A_d2 = 1,700; B_d2 = 3.86</li><li>A_d3 = 4,700; B_d3 = 2.70</li></ul> is expressed.

In a preferred embodiment, the R is_aValue between 30 and 90 nm and in particular between 35 and 80 nm.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesion / sliding friction F_C this layer against itself less than 0.45 and in particular less than 0.40.

In a preferred embodiment, the constants A_h2 till B_h2 the equation (3) the values ​​A_h2 = - 0.523, B_h2 = 3.523, A_h3 = 2.300 and B_h3 = 2.3, in a particularly preferred embodiment the values ​​A_h2 = 0.00, B_h2 = 3,300, A_h3 = 2,000 and B_h3 = 2.400 and most preferably the values ​​A_h2 = 1.420, B_h2 = 2,500, A_h3 = 2,000 and B_h3 = 3,000.

In a preferred embodiment, the constants A_d2 till B_d3 the equation (4) the values ​​A_d2 = 2.00, B_d2 = 3.630, A_d3 = 4.40 and B_d3 = 2.70, in a preferred embodiment the values ​​A_d2 = 2.400, B_d2 = 3.720, A_d3 = 4,000 and B_d3 = 2.600 and most preferably the values ​​A_d2 = 3,400, B_d2 = 2.400, A_d3 = 4,000 and B_d3 = 3,300.

Between Optionally, an intermediate layer may be present the base layer and the cover layer (s). This in turn may consist of the polymers described for the base layers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, it consists of the polyester used for the base layer. It may also contain the conventional additives described. The thickness of the intermediate layer is generally greater than 0.3 μm and is preferably in the range of 0.5 to 15 μm, in particular in the range of 1.0 to 10 μm and most preferably in the range of 1.0 to 5 μm.

In the particularly advantageous three-layer embodiment of the film according to the invention, the thickness of the cover layer (s) A (and C) is generally greater than 0.1 μm and is generally in the range from 0.2 to 3.0 μm, advantageously in the range from 0 , 2 to 2.5 microns, in particular in the range of 0.3 to 2 microns and most preferably in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 microns, wherein the outer layers A and C may be the same or different thickness.

The total thickness of the polyester film according to the invention can vary within wide limits and depends on the intended use. It is 4 to 50 microns, especially 5 to 45 microns, preferably 6 to 40 microns, wherein the layer B has a proportion of preferably about 5 to 90% of the total thickness.

For the preparation of the layers A and C (top layer / s A and C) are advantageously granules of polyethylene terephthalate fed to one or two extruders. The materials are melted at about 300 ° C and extruded.

The polymers for the base layer are suitably fed via a further extruder. Any foreign bodies or impurities present can be filtered off from the polymer melt prior to extrusion. The melts are then formed into flat melt films in a multi-layer die and stacked one on top of the other. Subsequently, the multi-layer film is drawn off and solidified with the aid of a cooling roller and optionally further rollers.

The biaxial stretching is generally carried out sequentially. In this case, preferably only in the longitudinal direction (ie in the machine direction) and then in the transverse direction (ie perpendicular to the machine direction). This leads to an orientation of the molecular chains. The stretching in the longitudinal direction can be carried out with the help of two according to the desired stretch ratio different speed rollers running. For cross-stretching you generally use a corresponding clip frame.

The temperature at which the stretching is carried out may vary within a relatively wide range and depends on the desired properties of the film. In general, the longitudinal stretching at 80 to 130 ° C and the transverse extension at 90 to 150 ° C is performed. The longitudinal stretch ratio is generally in the range of 2.5: 1 to 6: 1, preferably 3: 1 to 5.5: 1. The transverse stretch ratio is generally in the range of 3.0: 1 to 5.0: 1, preferably 3.5: 1 to 4.5: 1. Before the transverse stretching, one or both surfaces of the film can be coated in-line according to the known methods. The in-line coating can serve, for example, for improved adhesion of the metal layer or a possibly applied printing ink, but also for improving the antistatic behavior or the processing behavior.

In the subsequent thermosetting, the film is held at a temperature of 150 to 250 ° C for about 0.1 to 10 seconds. Subsequently, the film is wound in the usual manner.

The biaxially stretched and heat-set polyester film may be corona or flame treated on one or both sides prior to printing or prior to application of the metallic or oxidic layer. The treatment intensity is chosen so that the surface tension of the film is generally above 45 mN / m.

If desired, the application of metal or oxide layers takes place on conventional industrial plants. Metal layers of aluminum are usually produced by vapor deposition in conventional metallizers (shuttle method). In the case of oxidic layers, in particular, electron beam methods or sputtering have proven to be particularly suitable. The process parameters of the system during application of the metal layer or the oxidic layer on the films correspond to the standard conditions. The metallization of the films is preferably carried out so that the optical density of the metallized films in the usual range of about 2.2 to 2.8. The application of the oxide layer on the film is carried out so that the layer thickness of the oxide layer is preferably in the range of 30 to 100 nm. The web speed of the film to be coated is usually between 5 and 20 m / s in all settings.

To set other desired properties, the film may be coated or corona or flame pretreated. Typical coatings are adhesion-promoting, antistatic, slip-improving or dehesive layers. It is advisable to apply these additional layers over inne coating by means of aqueous dispersions prior to transverse stretching on the film.

In a metallization of the film on the inventive layer A, the metal layer is preferably made of aluminum. But other materials are suitable, which can be applied in the form of a thin, coherent layer. In particular, for example Silicon suitable, which results in a transparent barrier layer compared to aluminum. The oxidic layer is preferably composed of oxides of elements of II., III. or IV. Main group of the Periodic Table, in particular oxides of magnesium, aluminum or silicon. In general, such metallic or oxidic materials are used, which at reduced pressure or can be applied in a vacuum. The thickness of the deposited layer is generally 10 to 100 nm.

An advantage of the invention is that the manufacturing costs of the film according to the invention are comparable to those of the prior art. The other processing and use relevant properties of the film according to the invention remain substantially unchanged or even improved. In addition, it is ensured in the production of the film that the regenerate in a concentration of 20 to 50 wt .-%, based on the total weight of the film, can be used again, without affecting the physical properties of the film are appreciably negatively affected.

The film is ideal for packaging of light and / or air sensitive food and stimulants. It is particularly suitable for the production of vacuum packaging for coffee, in particular ground coffee.

In summary, the film of the invention is characterized by a high gloss, in particular a high gloss of the film surface A, and by a low haze. Furthermore, the film has an excellent oxygen barrier after being metallized on the film surface A or coated with oxidic materials. It also has a good wrapping and processing behavior.

The gloss of the film surface A is greater than 180. In a preferred embodiment, the gloss of this page is more than 190 and in a particularly preferred embodiment more than 200. This film surface is therefore particularly suitable for printing or for metallization. The high gloss of the film is transferred to the pressure or the applied metal layer and thus gives the film the desired promotional effect.

The haze of the film is less than 1.5. In a preferred embodiment, the haze of the film is less than 1.3, and in a particularly preferred embodiment less than 1.0. Due to the low haze of the film, the film is not only suitable for packaging but also eg for reprographic applications or for "glazing" applications.

The film has an oxygen barrier of less than 0.5 gm^-2 d^-1 bar^-1, preferably less than 0.45 gm^-2 d^-1 bar^-1 and more preferably less than 0.4 gm^-2 d^-1 bar^-1after being metallized on the film surface A or coated with oxidic materials.

On the film surface A no blocking takes place. The friction coefficient on the opposite side to the A side is less than 0.5. In a preferred embodiment, the coefficient of friction of the film is less than 0.45 and, in a particularly preferred embodiment, less than 0.4.

The table below (Table 1) summarizes the most important film properties according to the invention once more.<tables id="tabl0001" num="0001"><img file="EP0903221A2_D0009.tif" /></tables>

To characterize the raw materials and the films, the following methods were used:

(1)

Optical density

For measuring the optical density, the Macbeth TD-904 densitometer was used by Macbeth (Division of Kollmorgen Instruments Corp.). The optical density is defined as<maths id="math0009" num=""><math display="inline"><mrow><msub><mrow><mtext>OD = - Ig I / I</mtext></mrow><mrow><mtext>0</mtext></mrow></msub></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0010.tif" /></maths>, where I: the intensity of the incident light, I₀: the intensity of the emitted light and I / I₀: mean the transmission.

(2)

oxygen barrier

The measurement of the oxygen barrier on the metallized films was carried out using an OX-TRAN 2/20 from Mocon Modern Controls (USA) in accordance with DIN 53 380, Part 3.

(3)

SV

To determine the SV value (SV = solvent viscosity), a polyester sample was dissolved in a solvent (dichloroacetic acid). The viscosity of this solution and the viscosity of the pure solvent were measured in an Ubbelohde viscometer. From the two values, the quotient was determined, subtracted 1,000 and this value multiplied by 1000. The result was the SV value ("solution viscosity").

(4)

friction

The friction was determined according to DIN 53 375. The friction was measured 14 days after production. A blocking takes place when the coefficient of friction is greater than 1 or in the frictional force measurement in the friction force-displacement curve measurement discontinuities occur.

(5)

surface tension

The surface tension was determined by means of the so-called ink method (DIN 53 364).

(6)

cloudiness

The haze of the film was measured according to ASTM-D 1003-52. The haze measurement according to Hölz ​​was determined on the basis of ASTM-D 1003-52, but to utilize the optimum measuring range was measured on four superimposed film layers and instead of a 4E pinhole a 1 ° -pole was used

(7)

shine

The gloss was determined according to DIN 67 530. The reflector value was measured as an optical parameter for the surface of a film. Based on the standards ASTM-D 523-78 and ISO 2813, the angle of incidence was set at 20 ° or 60 °. A light beam strikes the flat test surface under the set angle of incidence and is reflected by it or scattered. The light rays incident on the photoelectronic receiver are displayed as a proportional electrical quantity. The measured value is dimensionless and must be specified with the angle of incidence.

(8th)

Determination of grain sizes on film surfaces

The size distribution of antiblocking agent particles (particle size distribution) on film surfaces is determined using a scanning electron microscope (eg DSM 982 Gemini, Leo GmbH (Zeiss)) in conjunction with an image analysis system. The magnifications chosen were in all cases 1700 times.

For these measurements, film samples are placed flat on a sample holder. Subsequently, these are at an angle α with a thin metal layer (eg of silver) obliquely evaporated. Here, α is the angle between the sample surface and the propagation direction of the metal vapor. This Schrägbedampfung created on the Antiblockmittelteilchen a shadow. Since the shadows are not yet electrically conductive, the sample can then with a second metal (eg Gold), the metal vapor impinging perpendicular to the sample surface.<img file="EP0903221A2_D0011.tif" />

The thus prepared sample surfaces are imaged in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The shadows of Antiblockmittelteilchen are visible due to the material contrast. The sample is oriented in the SEM so that the shadows run parallel to the lower edge of the image (x-direction). In this setting, SEM images are taken and transferred to an image analysis system. With this image analysis system, the lengths of the shadows (in the x-direction) and their maximum extent in the y-direction (parallel to the vertical image edge) are measured.

The diameter D of the antiblocking agent particles at the level of the sample surface is equal to the maximum extent of the shadows d in the y-direction. The height of the antiblocking agent particles, measured from the film surface, is calculated from the evaporation angle α and the shadow length L and with knowledge of the magnification V selected for the SEM image:<maths id="math0010" num=""><math display="block"><mrow><mtext>h = (tan (α) * L) / V</mtext></mrow></math><img file="EP0903221A2_D0012.tif" /></maths>

In order to achieve a sufficiently high statistical security, several thousand anti-blocking agent particles are measured. For the diameters and heights of the particles, frequency distributions are then created using the known statistical methods. For the particle diameter D, a class width of 0.2 μm and for the particle height h a class width of 0.05 μm are chosen.

(9)

roughness

The roughness R_a The film was determined according to DIN 4768 at a cut-off of 0.25 mm.

example 1

Chips of polyethylene terephthalate (prepared via the transesterification process with Mn as transesterification catalyst, Mn concentration: 100 ppm) and were dried at 160 ° C to a residual moisture content of below 50 ppm and fed to the extruder for the base layer B.

In addition, chips of polyethylene terephthalate (prepared via the transesterification process with Mn as transesterification catalyst, Mn concentration: 100 ppm), which are pigmented according to Table 2, also dried at 160 ° C to a residual moisture of below 50 ppm and the respective extruders for the outer layers A and C supplied.

A transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 μm was produced by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The thickness of the respective layers is shown in Table 2.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0001" compact="compact"><dt>94.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>6.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0 wt .-% polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 0.5 wt .-% Sylobloc® 44 H (colloidal SiO₂ from Grace) and 0.5% by weight of Aerosil® TT 600 (chain-like SiO₂ the company Degussa)</dd></dl>

Base layer B:

<dl id="dl0002" compact="compact"><dt>100.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd></dl>

Topcoat C, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0003" compact="compact"><dt>84.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>16.0% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate and 0.5% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace) and 0.5% by weight of Aerosil TT 600 (Degussa)</dd></dl>

The production conditions in the individual process steps were: <tables id="tabl0002" num="0002"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="4" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="39.37mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="39.37mm" /><colspec colnum="3" colname="col3" colwidth="39.37mm" /><colspec colnum="4" colname="col4" colwidth="39.37mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">extrusion:</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">temperatures</entry><entry namest="col3" nameend="col3" align="left">A-layer:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">300 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" /><entry namest="col3" nameend="col3" align="left">B layer:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">300 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" /><entry namest="col3" nameend="col3" align="left">C layer:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">300 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Die width:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">1 mm</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Temperature of take-off roll:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">30 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Longitudinal stretching:</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Temperature:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">80 - 125 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Longitudinal stretching ratio:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">4.0</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Transverse stretching:</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Temperature:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">80 - 135 ° C</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" /><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Transverse stretching ratio:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">4.0</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">fixation:</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" align="left">Temperature:</entry><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">230 ° C</entry></row><row rowsep="1"><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">duration:</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col3" /><entry namest="col4" nameend="col4" align="left">3 s</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

The film is characterized by very good optical properties and good processing behavior (see Table 3).

After preparation of the film (according to this Example 1 and all the following examples), it was vacuum evaporated on the A side in an industrial metallizer with aluminum. The coating speed was 8 m / s and the optical density was 2.6.

The film had the required high oxygen barrier. The film structure and the properties of films produced in this way are shown in Tables 2 and 3. FIG. 6 shows, for the outer layer A, the distributions for the elevations / projections N measured by means of the method described on pages 31/32.

Example 2

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, only the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0004" compact="compact"><dt>98.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>2.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 0.5% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace) and 0.5% by weight of Aerosil TT 600 (Degussa)</dd></dl>

The process conditions were chosen for all layers as in Example 1.

Example 3

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, only the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0005" compact="compact"><dt>99.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>1.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 0.5% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace) and 0.5% by weight of Aerosil TT 600 (Degussa)</dd></dl>

The process conditions were chosen for all layers as in Example 1.

Example 4

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, only the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0006" compact="compact"><dt>98.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>2.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.75% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 0.25% by weight of Aerosil TT 600 (Degussa)</dd></dl>

The process conditions were chosen for all layers as in Example 1.

Example 5

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, only the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0007" compact="compact"><dt>98.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>2.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.75% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 0.25% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace)</dd></dl>

The process conditions were chosen for all layers as in Example 1.

Example 6

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, only the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0008" compact="compact"><dt>100.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd></dl>

The polyester raw material for the outer layer A was prepared by transesterification with Ca as the transesterification catalyst, the Ca concentration being 200 ppm.

The process conditions were chosen for all layers as in Example 1. Although the cover layer A and the base layer B were additive added no inert pigments, the surface of the cover layer A contains protrusions / protrusions. These are caused, inter alia, by the precipitates of the transesterification catalyst and variations in the production process of the raw material and of the film.

Example 7

In a similar manner as in Example 1 was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns. Compared to Example 1, the outer layers A and C were changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0009" compact="compact"><dt>98.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>2.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 1.0% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace)</dd></dl>

Topcoat C, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0010" compact="compact"><dt>90.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>10.0% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 1.0% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace)</dd></dl>

Example 8

In a similar manner as in Example 7, a transparent three-layer film with ABC structure and a total thickness of 12 microns was prepared by coextrusion and subsequent stepwise orientation in the longitudinal and transverse directions. Compared to Example 1, the outer layer A was changed.

Covering layer A, mixture of:

<dl id="dl0011" compact="compact"><dt>91.0% by weight</dt><dd>Polyethylene terephthalate with an SV value of 800</dd><dt>1.00% by weight</dt><dd>Masterbatch of 99.0% by weight of polyethylene terephthalate (SV value of 800) and 1.0% by weight of Sylobloc 44 H (Grace)</dd></dl>

Comparative Example 1

Example 1 from EP-A-0 514 129 was worked up. The gloss of the film is unsatisfactory. The metallized variant in 12 μm thickness does not have the required barrier values.

Comparative Example 2

Example 1 from EP-A-0 604 057 was worked up. The gloss of the film is not satisfactory. The metallized variant in 12 μm thickness does not have the required barrier values. In addition, the film is not an economical solution for use in the packaging market.

Comparative Example 3

Example 1 from EP-A-0 124 291 was worked up.

Comparative Example 4

Example 1 from EP-A-0 490 665 was worked up.

Comparative Example 5

Example 1 from DE-A-16 94 404 was worked up.

Comparative Example 6

Example 15 from EP-A-0 061 769 was worked up.

Comparative Example 7

Example 1 from EP-B-0 088 635 was worked up.<tables id="tabl0003" num="0003"><img file="EP0903221A2_D0013.tif" /></tables><tables id="tabl0004" num="0004"><img file="EP0903221A2_D0014.tif" /></tables>