WO2025188675A1

WO2025188675A1 - Multilayer oriented film and packages made thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2025188675A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/018224
Authority: WO
Inventors: Otacilio T. Berbert; Brett P. Bobko; Ross K. GRUETZMACHER; Marcelo B. ELIAS; Scott D. Howells; Jacob A. LASSEE
Original assignee: Amcor Flexibles North America Inc
Current assignee: Amcor Flexibles North America Inc
Priority date: 2024-03-04
Filing date: 2025-03-03
Publication date: 2025-09-12
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-04
Also published as: WO2025188675A8

Abstract

The present invention relates to a packaging film comprising a first outer layer of polypropylene, a second outer layer of polypropylene, and an inner layer connecting the first and second outer layers. The inner layer includes a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of propylene/ethylene copolymer, 1-butene rich 1-butene/ethylene plastomer, polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, olefin block copolymer, hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer, or a combination thereof. The packaging film is oriented, providing enhanced strength and durability for various packaging applications.

Description

MULTILAYER ORIENTED FILM AND PACKAGES MADE THEREOF

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to oriented films and packaged products made therefrom. The oriented film comprises a structure and composition aimed at recycling ease.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Flexible packaging films are often made from multiple categories of polymers, such as polyolefins, polyamides and polyesters. Each of these polymer types lends a different set of characteristics, such as hermetic sealing, heat resistance, puncture strength, aesthetics, etc., to the packaging film for high performance applications. However, it is desirable to design packaging films including a single category of polymer to improve recycling opportunities and ease.

[0003] Polyolefins of polypropylene and polyethylene are attractive categories of polymers for package design due to the performance properties such as heat sealability, durability and generally low cost. Polypropylene and polyethylene each have certain performance characteristics at which they excel. However, polyolefins lack certain critical characteristics such as abuse resistance, stiffness, and heat resistance. Still, efforts have been made to design sophisticated packaging films with polyolefins.

[0004] Even though polypropylene and polyethylene are both polyolefins and both are generally recyclable, they are not typically considered recyclable when they are mixed together. For example, polypropylene can be considered a contaminate in a polyethylene recycling process. Challenges exist to design packaging films with high performance and easy recyclability.

SUMMARY

[0005] In some aspects, the films described herein include: a first outer layer including a first polypropylene; a second outer layer including a second polypropylene; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer includes a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1-butcnc/cthylcnc plastomcr, a polypropylene hctcrophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof; and wherein the packaging film is oriented.

[0006] In some aspects, the film described herein is monoaxially oriented. In some aspects, the film described herein is biaxially oriented.

[0007] In some aspects, the inner layer further includes a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof.

[0008] In some aspects, the stabilizer is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer.

[0009] In some aspects, the stabilizer is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

[0010] In some aspects, the film may further include a composition including polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 90%, by weight.

[0011] In some aspects, the film has a thickness in a range of from 5 microns to 100 microns.

[0012] In some aspects, the inner layer includes one or more sub-layers.

[0013] In some aspects, the compatibilizer is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

[0014] In some aspects, the compatibilizer is a propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

[0015] In some aspects, the film further includes a composition including the compatibilizer in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

[0016] In some aspects, the film further includes a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer. In some aspects, the film further includes ink coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer.

[0017] In some aspects, the film has a composition including polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

[0018] In some aspects, the film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

[0019] Described herein are packaging films adapted for recycling in a polyolefin recycling stream including a coextruded and oriented multilayer film, the film including: a first outer layer including at least 80% of a first polypropylene, by weight; a second outer layer including at least 80% of a second polypropylene, by weight; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer includes a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1- butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene- styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof.

[0020] In some aspects the inner layer further includes a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof. In some aspects, the stabilizer is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer. In some aspects, the stabilizer is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

[0021] In some aspects, the packaging film has a composition including polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 75%, by weight.

[0022] In some aspects, the packaging film further includes a packaging film composition including the compatibilizer in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

[0023] In some aspects, the first polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

[0024] In some aspects, the packaging film further includes a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer.

[0025] In some aspects, the packaging film further includes ink coupled to the first outer layer.

[0026] In some aspects, the packaging film further includes a thickness in a range of from 15 to 100 micron.

[0027] In some aspects, the second polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

[0028] In some aspects, the packaging film further includes a patterned cold-seal material located on an exposed surface of the second outer layer.

[0029] In some aspects, the inner layer includes one or more sub-layers.

[0030] In some aspects, the packaging film composition includes polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

[0031] In some aspects, the packaging film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

[0032] In some aspects, the compatibilizer is selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof.

[0033] In some aspects, the compatibilizer is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

[0034] In some aspects, the compatibilizer is a propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer. [0035] In some aspects, the packaging film is monoaxially oriented or biaxially oriented.

[0036] Also described herein are packaged products including a packaging film and a product; wherein the packaging film is sealed to form a package and the product is enclosed within the package.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the disclosure in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a film described herein;

[0039] FIG. IB is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a film described herein; and

[0040] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a packaged product described herein.

[0041] The drawings show some but not all embodiments. The elements depicted in the drawings are illustrative and not necessarily to scale, and the same (or similar) reference numbers denote the same (or similar) features throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present disclosure includes descriptions of films, packaging films and the use of these packaging films to make packages for packaged products. The films are oriented and may or may not be coupled to another film or polymer layer to produce a packaging film. The films and packaging films have the advantage of being more easily recycled in the polyethylene recycle stream. The inclusion of layers that include compatibilizers and/or stabilizers allows for the advancement of high performance recyclable film technology.

[0043] The packaging films described herein include significant proportions (i.e., greater than 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% or 60%) of polypropylene. Polypropylene is immiscible in polyethylene and therefore is generally not acceptable to add into the polyolefin recycling stream which includes melting and blending the incoming mixed polymer materials. Development by the inventors resulted in the surprising effect that packaging film structure and composition including significant proportions of polypropylene can be rendered recyclable in the polyolefin recycling stream by including specific compatibilizers into the structure.

[0044] The properties of immiscible polymer blends depend on factors like the droplet sizes of the dispersed (minor) phase and interfacial adhesion. When droplet sizes are large, resultant light scatter can reduce the transparency of the blend. Low interfacial adhesion can reduce strength properties and promote cavitation during deformation operations like thermoforming and uniaxial or biaxial stretching. An immiscible polymer can cause the articles made from the polymer blend to have less desirable appearance and/or mechanical properties. To improve transparency and strength, it is often desirable to maintain a stabilized distribution of small droplets in a multiphase polymer blend.

[00451 When thermodynamically immiscible polymers are blended in a mixing device and elongational stresses exceed the elastic limits of the minor polymer fractions, those minor fractions break into droplets which become the dispersed phase of the multiphase system. The mixing device can utilize moving elements (e.g. , extruder) or it can be stationary (e.g., static mixer).

[0046] The deformation and break-up of viscous droplets in a flow field are governed by the capillary number (Ca). The capillary number compares the relative strengths of the viscous stress (tends to cause droplet elongation) and the interfacial stress (a surface tension effect which tends to make the droplet spherical). When the capillary number reaches a critical value, the viscous stress dominates, and the interfacial stress is insufficiently large to prohibit droplet break-up. That is, surface tension can no longer maintain a spherical droplet, so the droplet elongates and eventually ruptures into smaller units.

[0047] Droplet break-up increases the system free energy due to a concurrent increase in interfacial area since smaller droplets create more interface. When a polymer blend exits the intensive mixing section of a mixing device, that is, it enters a region of lower elongational stress, droplet collisions cause coalescence, total interfacial area decreases, and the system energy decreases as well. Thus, some of the transparency and strength benefits provided by intensive mixing are lost. To minimize coalescence and maintain small droplets, compatibilizers are used to influence polymer interaction at the phase boundaries. Successful compatibilizers show affinities for both phases. These affinities can be chemical (e.g., maleic anhydride modified compatibilizer reacting with amine functionality in polymer droplets (e.g., Dow Retain 3000 used in a PE/polyamide system)) or physical (e.g., compatibilizer chain entangles with droplets and/or continuous phase (e.g., PE/PP block copolymer used in a PE/PP system)). Ideally, a compatibilizer prevents coalescence of dispersed droplets and maintains a stable, multi-phase polymer system. [0048] As used herein, the term “recyclable” is meant to indicate that the film can be converted into a new useful item by means of reprocessing in a polyolefin recycling stream. Reprocessing may entail washing, separating, melting, and forming, among many other steps. Typically, when plastic packaging is reprocessed, the material is mechanically chopped into small pieces and then melted to be reformed into the new product. If multiple incompatible materials are present in the packaging, interactions occur during reprocessing causing gels, brittle material, poor appearance and generally un-usable or poor-quality products. Using the term “recyclable” indicates that these drawbacks are generally not present. Qualification as a recyclable material is not regulated by any specific agencies but can be obtained from specific groups such as Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and How2Recycle™. Recyclable films disclosed herein may be suitable for “Store Drop-off” recycling streams. These streams may accept the following: 100% polyethylene bags, wraps, and films; very close to 100% polyethylene bags, wraps, and How2Recycle-approved polyethylene-based carrier packing with or without compatibilizer technology. Introduction of a recyclable film into any of these rccycling-by-rcproccssing avenues should not require additional compatibilizer. As used herein, the term "polyolefin recycling stream" refers to an industrial process of reprocessing resulting in a product that can be reformed into a new product. A polyolefin recycling stream may be dedicated to polyethylene (i.e., a polyethylene recycling stream), polypropylene (i.e., a polypropylene recycling stream) or blends of polyolefins.

[0049] The packaging films disclosed herein may be free from materials that contaminate the polyolefin recycling stream. In particular, the packaging films may be free from polyamide (PA), ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) and/or metal foils (i.e., aluminum foil having thickness above 5 micron). In some packaging films, polymers such as PA and EVOH may be present but at a low level, such as below 5%, by weight of the entire packaging film.

[0050] As used herein, the term "film" refers to refers to a web built of one or more layers and/or films, all of which are directly adjacent to and connected to each other. A film can be described as having a thickness that is insignificant as compared to the length and width of the film. A film has two major surfaces, the area of which are defined by the length and width of the film. As used herein, the term "layer" refers to refers to a building block of a film. As used herein, a polymer layer may have a composition that is a single material type or a homogeneous blend of materials. A layer may be a single polymer, a blend of materials within a single polymer type or a blend of various polymers, may contain metallic materials and may have additives. Layers may be continuous with the film or may be discontinuous or patterned. A layer has an insignificant thickness (z direction) as compared to the length and width (x-y direction), and therefore is defined to have two major surfaces, the area of which are defined by the length and width of the layer. An outer layer is one that is connected to another layer at only one of the major surfaces. In other words, one major surface of an outer layer is exposed. An inner layer is one that is connected to another layer at both major surfaces. In other words, an inner layer is between two other layers.

[0051] As used herein, the term "packaging film" refers to a film capable of being formed into a package. The packaging film may be flexible. A flexible packaging film may be bent or Hexed into a shape and then bonded to itself or other packaging components such that a cavity is formed and generally retains the shape. A product may be contained in the cavity. A packaging film may be capable of forming hermetic seals and may provide oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties. A packaging film has two outer surfaces (Le., one exterior surface and one interior surface) defined by a length and a width.

[0052] An embodiment of a film 100 (or packaging film) is shown in FIG. 1 A. The film 100 includes a first outer layer 102, an inner layer 104 and a second outer layer 106 The inner layer 104 is located between and directly adjacent to the first outer layer 102 and the second outer layer 106. In other embodiments of the film, there may be intervening layers between the inner layer and either or both of first outer layer and the second outer layer. In other words, there may be multiple inner layers or sub-layers.

[0053] The first outer layer is located at an exterior surface of the film. The first outer layer of the film may be formulated for easy printing or metallizing on the surface thereof. The first outer layer may be formulated for heat scaling. The first outer layer may include a polypropylene copolymer such as a C4-C3-C2 terpolymer. The first outer layer may include a polypropylene homopolymer. The first outer layer may have a composition that includes polypropylene in a range of from 90% to 100%, by weight. The first outer layer may have a thickness in a range of from 1 micron to 20 micron, or from 2 micron to 15 micron, or from 3 micron to 10 micron.

[0054] Likewise, the second outer layer is located at an exterior surface of the film. The second outer layer of the film may be formulated for easy printing or metallizing on the surface thereof. The second outer layer may be formulated for heat sealing. The second outer layer may include a polypropylene copolymer such as a C4-C3-C2 terpolymer. The second outer layer may include a polypropylene homopolymer. The second outer layer may have a composition that includes polypropylene in a range of from 90% to 100%, by weight. The second outer layer may have a thickness in a range of from 1 micron to 20 micron, or from 2 micron to 15 micron, or from 3 micron to 10 micron.

[0055] In some embodiments, the composition of the first outer layer is identical to the composition of the second outer layer. In some embodiments, the composition of the first outer layer is different than the composition of the second outer layer. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first outer layer is identical to the thickness of the second outer layer. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first outer layer is different than the thickness of the second outer layer.

[0056] The inner layer is connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer. The inner layer may have a composition that is greater than 25%, 50%, 60% or 70%, 80% or 90% polyethylene, by weight. The inner layer may comprise the compatibilizer and/or stabilizer. In some embodiments the first outer layer and the second outer layer are free from the compatibilizer and/or stabilizer.

[0057] The film may be assembled by any known series of converting operations including but not limited to blown film extrusion, cast film extrusion, orientation, metallization, printing, and slitting.

[0058] At least the inner layer includes a compatibilizer. The first outer layer and/or the second outer layer may also include a compatibilizer. In general use, a compatibilizer is any material that, when added to a multiphase polymer blend, reduces the tendency for the blend’s dispersed phase to coalesce. The average dispersed phase droplet size in a blend that comprises a compatibilizer will be less than the droplet size in a blend that does not comprise a compatibilizer. The theoretical function of the compatibilizer as used in the currently described system is to allow the polypropylene components to blend into the polyethylene matrix more easily during the melting and mixing of the recycling process. During melting and blending of the polymers the polypropylene distributes more evenly, forming smaller sized portions, such that the resulting blend has little to no defects such as gels upon thin film extrusion. The compatibilizer minimizes the effects that the entrained polypropylene has on the physical properties of the polyethylene matrix and resulting thin film.

[0059] As used herein, the inner layer includes at least one compatibilizer selected from the list of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1-butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene- styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer, and a combination thereof.

[0060] Preferably, the compatibilizer has a composition that includes both propylene and ethylene. In some embodiments of the film, the inner layer includes at least one compatibilizer selected from the list of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer, and a combination thereof. In some embodiments of the film, the inner layer includes at least one compatibilizer that is selected from a propylene/ethylene copolymer and a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer. In some embodiments the compatibilizer may be a propylene- rich copolymer (i.e., more than 50% of the linkages are propylene).

[0061] A propylene/ethylene copolymer may be a propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer. Examples of a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer include elastomers such as Dow Versify™ 3401 or 3300 and ExxonMobil Vistamaxx 6102 and 6202, and plastomers such as Dow Versify™ 3000.

[0062] A propylene ethylene copolymer may be a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene/butene terpolymer. Examples of a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene/butene terpolymer include LyondellBassell Adsyl 5 C 30 F and 7416 XCP.

[0063] Examples of 1-butene-rich 1-butene/ethylene copolymer include Mitsui TAFMER BL3110 or BL3450.

[0064] A polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer as noted herein preferably has a polypropylene matrix (55 to 90 %, by weight) and an elastomer (10 to 45 %, by weight), such as an ethylene/propylene copolymer or a C4 to CIO alpha-olefin copolymer.

[0065] An olefin block copolymer may be a polypropylene-based olefin block copolymer such as Dow INTUNE™ or may have alternating blocks of rigid and elastomeric segments, such as Dow INFUSE™.

[0066] An olefin block copolymer may be a triblock or multiblock.

[0067] Examples of hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) include resins available in the Kraton CirKular+™ product line. [0068] An ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) as noted herein preferably has a polyethylene component (50 to 80 %, by weight) and a polypropylene (20% to 50%, by weight), such as a random rubber copolymer of ethylene and propylene.

[0069] Examples of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber include ExxonMobil Vistaion™ and Dow NORDEL™.

[0070] The film composition may include greater than 6%, 8%, 10%, 12% or 14% compatibilizer, by weight. The film composition may include less than 40%, 35% or 30% compatibilizer, by weight. For example, the film composition may include compatibilizer in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

[0071] The inner layer may include a stabilizer. The theoretical function of the stabilizer is to offset the negative effects of the incompatibility of the mixed olefin (polyethylene and polypropylene) blend. The stabilizer may “build back” or otherwise improve the physical properties of the blend to result in higher quality films containing the recycled blend. As used herein, the “stabilizer” is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer or a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer. The stabilizer may be a homogeneously branched linear ethylene/alpha olefin copolymer, such as an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

[0072] Examples of polymers that may be used as a stabilizer include C6-mLLDPE, C6- LLDPE, C8-LLDPE, C8-ULDPE, and C8 plastomer. Examples of homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymers include ENGAGE™ grades 8100, 8180 and 8200 (C8 elastomers), available from Dow, Exact™ 0210 (C8 plastomer) from ExxonMobil, TAFMER® grades from Mitsui, and Queo® grades from Borealis. Examples of heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymers include DOWLEX 3010 available from Dow and ATTANE grades available from Dow.

[0073] As used herein, the phrase “heterogeneous polymer” refers to polymerization reaction products of relatively wide variation in molecular weight and relatively wide variation in composition distribution, i.e., typical polymers prepared, for example, using conventional Ziegler-Natta catalysts. Heterogeneous polymers are useful in various layers of the film used in the present invention. Although there are a few exceptions (such as TAFMER™ linear homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymers produced by Mitsui, using Ziegler-Natta catalysts), heterogeneous polymers typically contain a relatively wide variety of chain lengths and co-monomer percentages. [0074] As used herein, the phrase “homogeneous polymer” refers to polymerization reaction products of relatively narrow molecular weight distribution and relatively narrow composition distribution. Homogeneous polymers are structurally different from heterogeneous polymers, in that homogeneous polymers exhibit a relatively even sequencing of co-monomers within a chain, a mirroring of sequence distribution in all chains, and a similarity of length of all chains, i.e., a narrower molecular weight distribution. Furthermore, homogeneous polymers are typically prepared using metallocene, or other single-site type catalysts, rather than using Ziegler Natta catalysts.

[0075] More particularly, homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymers may be characterized by one or more methods known to those of skill in the art, such as molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) composition distribution breadth index (CDBI), and narrow melting point range and single melt point behavior. The molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn), also known as polydispersity, may be determined by gel permeation chromatography. The homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymers useful in this invention generally have (Mw/Mn) of less than 2.7; preferably from about 1.9 to about 2.5; more preferably, from about 1.9 to about 2.3. The composition distribution breadth index (CDBI) of such homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymers will generally be greater than about 70 percent. The CDBI is defined as the weight percent of the copolymer molecules having a co-monomer content within 50 percent i.e., plus or minus 50 percent) of the median total molar co-monomer content. The CDBI of linear polyethylene, which does not contain a co-monomer, is defined to be 100 percent. The Composition Distribution Breadth Index (CDBI) is determined via the technique of Temperature Rising Elution Fractionation (TREF). CDBI determination clearly distinguishes the homogeneous copolymers used in the present invention (narrow composition distribution as assessed by CDBI values generally above 70 percent) from VLDPEs available commercially which generally have a broad composition distribution as assessed by CDBI values generally less than 55 percent. The CDBI of a copolymer is readily calculated from data obtained from techniques known in the art, such as, for example, temperature rising elution fractionation as described, for example, in Wild et. al., J. Poly. Sci. Poly. Phys. Ed., Vol. 20, p.441 (1982). Preferably, the homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin co-polymers have a CDBI greater than about 70 percent, i.e., a CDBI of from about 70 percent to about 99 percent. In general, the homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin co-polymers in the multi-layer films of the present invention also exhibit a relatively narrow melting point range, in comparison with “heterogeneous copolymers”, i.e., polymers having a CDBI of less than 55 percent. Preferably, the homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymers exhibit an essentially singular melting point characteristic, with a peak melting point (Tm), as determined by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), of from about 60 degrees centigrade to about 110 degrees centigrade Preferably the homogeneous copolymer has a DSC peak T m of from about 80 degrees centigrade to about 105 degrees centigrade As used herein, the phrase “essentially single melting point” means that at least about 80 percent, by weight, of the material corresponds to a single T m peak at a temperature within the range of from about 60 degrees centigrade to about 110 degrees centigrade, and essentially no substantial fraction of the material has a peak melting point in excess of about 115 degrees centigrade, as determined by DSC analysis. Melting information reported are second melting data, i.e., the sample is heated at a programmed rate of 10 degrees centigrade/min. to a temperature below its critical range. The sample is then reheated (2nd melting) at a programmed rate of 10 degrees centigrade /min. The presence of higher melting peaks is detrimental to film properties such as haze and compromises the chances for meaningful reduction in the seal initiation temperature of the final film.

[0076] A homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymer can, in general, be prepared by the co-polymerization of ethylene and any one or more and alpha-olefins. Preferably, the alphaolefin is a C4 -C2 and alpha-mono-olefin, still more preferably, a C4 -C8 and alpha-mono- olefin. Still more preferably, the alpha-olefin comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of butene- 1, hexene- 1, and octene- 1, i.e., 1 -butene, 1 -hexene, and 1 -octene, respectively. Most preferably, the alpha-olefin comprises octene-1, and/or a blend of hexene- 1 and butene- 1.

[0077] As used herein, the phrase “ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymer” refer to such heterogeneous materials as linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear medium density polyethylene (LMDPE) and very low and ultra-low density polyethylene (VLDPE and ULDPE); and homogeneous polymers such as metallocene-catalyzed EXACT™ linear homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymer resins obtainable from Exxon, single-site AFFFNITY™ linear homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymer resins obtainable from Dow, and TAFMER™ linear homogeneous ethylene- and alpha-olefin copolymer resins obtainable from Mitsui. All these materials generally include co-polymers of ethylene with one or more co-monomers selected from C4 to CIO and alpha-olefin such as butene- 1, hexene- 1, octene- 1, etc. in which the molecules of the copolymers comprise long chains with relatively few side chain branches or cross-linked structures. The heterogeneous ethylene- and alphaolefin co-polymer commonly known as LLDPE has a density usually in the range of from about 0.915 g/cm³ to about 0.930 g/cm³, that commonly known as LMDPE has a density usually in the range of from about 0.930 g/cm³ to about 0.945 g/cm³, while those commonly identified as VLDPE or ULDPE have a density lower than about 0.915 g/cm³.

[00781 The first outer layer may be an exterior layer. The term "outer layer" as used herein refers to one or more layers of a film that are on either major surface of the film, i.e., the layers that are not between two other layers of that film. As used herein, the term “exterior” is used to describe a film, layer or surface that is located in an outer layer position such that it is at or near the surrounding environment when the film is used in a packaging application.

[0079] The second outer layer and may be an interior layer. As used herein, the term “interior” is used to describe a film, layer or surface that is located in an outer layer position such that it is at or near the packaged product when the film is used in a packaging application. In some embodiments of the packaging film, the second outer layer of the film may be adhered to a sealant film.

[0080] Each of the first outer layer and the second outer layer may comprise polypropylene. The composition of the first outer layer and the second outer layer may independently be in the range of from 50% to 100% polypropylene, from 60% to 100%, from 70% to 100%, from 80% to 100% or from 90% to 100%, by weight. The first outer layer may comprise at least 80% or at least 90% polypropylene. The second outer layer may comprise at least 80% or at least 90% polypropylene. A composition of polypropylene is understood to include the weight of any polymer or copolymer that includes greater than 50% propylene linkages (i.e., propylene-rich copolymers). For example, included in the polypropylene weight would be homopolymer polypropylene and random polypropylene copolymers.

[0081] If the composition of the first outer layer and/or the second outer layer includes less than 100% polypropylene, the remaining portion may be a polyolefin such as polyethylene. The composition of the first outer layer and/or the second outer layer may include one or more of the compatibilizers disclosed herein. The composition of the first outer layer and/or the second outer layer may include one or more of the stabilizers disclosed herein.

[0082] The film may be transparent or opaque. The first outer film and/or the second outer film may be white due to an added pigment such as titanium dioxide particles or cavitation. [0083] As described herein, the film may be oriented. Orientation may be the result of monoaxially oriented (machine direction or transverse direction), or biaxially oriented (machine direction and transverse direction) stretching of the film, increasing the machine direction and/or transverse direction dimension and subsequently decreasing the thickness of the material. Biaxial orientation may be imparted to the film simultaneously or successively. Stretching in either or both directions is subjected to the film in the at a temperature just below the melt temperature of the polymers in the film. In this manner, the stretching causes the polymer chains to “orient” changing the physical properties of the film. At the same time, the stretching thins the film. The resulting oriented films are thinner and can have significant changes in mechanical properties such as toughness, heat resistance, stiffness, tear strength and barrier. Orientation is typically accomplished by a double- or triple-bubble process, by a tenterframe process or an MDO process using heated rolls. A typical blown film process does impart some stretching of the film, but not enough to be considered oriented as described herein. An oriented film may be heat set (z.e. annealed) after orientation, such that it is relatively dimensionally stable under elevated temperature conditions that might be experienced during further conversion of the film (i.e. printing or laminating) or during the use of the laminate or packaging film (i.e. heat sealing).

[0084] In some embodiments of the film, the film is biaxially oriented. In some embodiments of the film, the film is monoaxially oriented.

[0085] Some embodiments of the packaging film may include additional layers such as ink, adhesive, primer, barrier materials, metallization layers, seal layers, etc. As used herein, “ink” is referring to printed indicia applied to the surface of a film (i.e., the first outer film) by a common converting process such as flexographic or rotogravure printing, although the process by which it is applied is not limited. Ink has a polymeric base and pigments for color. The ink is typically pattern applied in various colors in order to produce graphics and/or information on the film. Ink may be applied on either side of the film.

[0086] As used herein, the term "metallization layer", “metallized” or "metal coating" (which when applied forms the metallization layer) refers to a coating that may be applied to one or both surfaces of a film by any known method such as sputtering, vacuum deposition or electroplating (all of which fall within the definition of "metallizing" the film and involve some act or method of "depositing" a continuous metal, metal oxide or metal alloy layer onto the surface of a polymer substrate). The metal used can vary, though aluminum, zinc, gold, silver, or appropriate alloys of such are preferred, with aluminum or aluminum-containing alloys being particularly preferred. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, while the metal coating predominantly consists of the identified metal (such as aluminum), amounts of other additives may be present to improve assorted physical and optical properties of the deposited metal layer. In some occasions, pure aluminum (or the metal of choice) may be used. Other additives maybe used in minor amounts such that aluminum (or the metal of choice) is the major component. Vacuum deposition is a preferred method of metallization in trends of processing and cost. Preferred values for the average thickness of the metal coating layer are within the range of about 1.0 to 100 nanometers, with the preferred average thickness being within the range of about 3 to 25 nanometers. (1 micron equals 10’⁷ meters, and 1 nanometer equals 10'⁸ meters.) Regardless, the metal coating preferably has a thickness less than the polymer substrate on which it is deposited, preferably substantially less than said substrate. [0087] The packaging film may be assembled by any known series of converting operations including but not limited to blown film extrusion, cast film extrusion, orientation, metallization, printing, lamination, extrusion lamination, and slitting.

[0088] The film may have a thickness greater than 15, 20 or 25 micron. The film may have a thickness less than 150, 125, 100 or 90 micron. For example, the film may have a thickness in a range of from 15 micron to 100 micron.

[0089] The film may be used to form a packaged product. As used herein, the term “packaged product” refers to the one or more packaging components (z'.c., the packaging film, two packaging films, a tray, a zipper, etc.) forming a hermetically sealed package and the product therein. As used herein, the term “hermetic,” “hermetically sealed” or “hermeticity” refers to a seal or scaled package that is completely closed and essentially airtight. Hermetically sealed packages generally have a need for storage and package integrity over a period that is greater than a few days. Package integrity includes a consistent appearance, maintenance of barrier properties, maintenance of lamination bonds, and maintenance of seals. As used herein, the term "package" refers to an article formed of packaging components, such as packaging film or film, having a cavity capable of holding a product. The package may be hermetically sealed and may provide protection for the product during storage and distribution. When formed into a package, the inside surface of the packaging film (z'.e., the second outer layer or the interior surface) is exposed to the product cavity and the outside surface (z.e., the first outer layer, metallization layer, ink, or the exterior surface) is exposed to the surrounding environment. [0090] The package may take any form and the packaging film or film may form the entire package or may be combined with other packaging components to form the package.

[0091] FIG. IB shows an embodiment of the film 100 having a metallization layer 108 applied to the exterior surface (i.e., the first outer layer 102) of the film 100, followed by ink 110. In some embodiments, the film 100 may have a patterned cold seal adhesive 112 applied to the interior surface (i.e., the second outer layer 106) of the film 100 and optionally, a release lacquer 114 applied to the exterior surface of the film 100.

[0092] An embodiment of a packaged product in FIG. 2. The packaged product 200 is a package 202 formed entirely of packaging film 204, containing a product (not shown), the package 202 in the form of a pillow pack. Packaging film 204 may have the structure of the film 100 shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. IB. The packaging film 204 is wrapped around the product in roughly a tube configuration with the longitudinal edges sealed to each other in a seam 208 running the length of the package 202. The seam 208 may be a fin seal or a lap seal. As used herein, the term "fin seal" refers to a seam that includes bonding the interior surface of the packaging film to itself. A fin seal generally protrudes from the package, although it may be folded over to be flat against the exterior surface of the package. As used herein, the term "lap seal" refers to a seam that includes bonding the interior surface (i.e., the interior layer, the second outer film) of one edge of the packaging film to the exterior surface (i.e., the exterior layer, the first outer film) of another edge of the packaging film. The edges of the packaging film overlap and are bonded together. End seals 206 close each end of the tube, creating the cavity in which the product is held. As used herein, the term "end seals" refers to a seal bonding the inside surface of the packaging film to itself, located at the end of a package, traversing from one side to the other side of the package. As the package is manufactured, the end seals are placed in a transverse direction (i.e., perpendicular to machine direction) between packages, and the single packages are usually cut apart at or near the end seals such that a finished package has an end seal at each end. The end seals may be formed by heat seals that bond the interior surface (i.e., the interior layer, the second outer film) to itself.

[0093] The product enclosed within the package made of the packaging film or film is not limited. The product may be of the type that benefits from protection from moisture, oxygen, or light, as may be provided by the packaging film. Examples of products include food, such as chips, crackers, snacks, grains, dry powders, confectionary, candy, or nut butters. Examples of products include cosmetic items such as loose powder, facial wipes, or lotions. Examples of products include home/industrial products such as cleaning wipes, powdered cleaner or pet food.

EXAMPLES

[0094] The following examples and comparative examples are meant to assist in the understanding of the disclosure and are not meant to define nor limit the scope thereof.

[0095] Three biaxially oriented films were produced to test the performance of films with added compatibilizer and/or stabilizer. Each of the films had a structure of 10% skin / 80% core / 10% skin, wherein the composition of all skin layers was polypropylene copolymer. Each of the films was produced at a thickness of about 70 ga (about 18 micron). The core layer composition is in Table 1.

TABLE 1: Biaxially Oriented Films, Core Layer Composition

[0096] These films were used to create simulated laminations of Biaxially Oriented Film / 10 lb polyethylene laminate (PEL) / Biaxially Oriented Film, both oriented films being the same, resulting in Laminates. Simulated Comparative Laminate 1 had a structure of Comparative Example Film 1 / PEL I Comparative Example Film 1. Simulated Example Laminate 2 had a structure of Example Film 1 / PEL I Example Film 1. Simulated Example Laminate 3 had a structure of Example Film 3 / PEL I Example Film 3. Each packaging film laminate had a composition including about 66% polypropylene, by weight.

[0097] For the simulation, each of the BOPP films and the extrusion lamination simulating film were produced and separately shredded, then combined in the correct proportion, melted, mixed and pelletized. To test for recyclability ease, the pellets from the films were then blended at a 50:50 ratio with pellets similarly obtained from a control polyethylene film (65 wt% MDPE, 20 wt% HDPE, 15 wt% LDPE). These blended pellets were then made into a 2 mil thick film in a blown film process. Comparative Test Film 1 was made using simulated Comparative Laminate 1 pellets, Example Test Film 2 was made using simulated Example Laminate 2 pellets and Test Film 3 was made using simulated Example Laminate 3 pellets. An additional Comparative Test Film 4 was produced by using 100% of the control polyethylene film through the melt-mixing, pelletizing, and film production. [0098] The test films were then tested to compare physical properties of the films. The results of these tests are shown in Table 2. Impact strength is Dart Drop measured using ASTM D7192 implementing a 0.75 in radius probe, 10.63 +/- 0.02 ft/sec velocity and 10.55 pound weight.

MD and TD tear data is Elmendorf Tear measured according to ASTM DI 922 using a 200 g pendulum for the MD measurements and a 1,600 g pendulum for the TD measurements.

TABLE 2: Recyclability Analysis on the Addition of Compatibilizer

[0099] By comparing the data of Comparative Test Film 1 to Comparative Test Film 4, it is evident that the addition of the standard BOPP films (Comparative Example Film 1) to the packaging film is detrimental, lowering impact strength, MD tear and TD tear significantly. The addition of the compatibilizer to the oriented films (Example Test Films 2 and 3 vs. Comparative Test Film 1) shows a boost in impact strength, MD tear and TD tear. The increased impact strength and reduced reduction of tear properties indicate an easier to recycle film (Example Films 2 and 3).

[0100] Embodiment 1: A film comprising: a first outer layer comprising a first polypropylene; a second outer layer comprising a second polypropylene; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer comprises at least one of a) a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1-butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof, and b) a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof; and the packaging film is oriented.

[0101] Embodiment 2: The film of embodiment 1, wherein the film is monoaxially oriented.

[0102] Embodiment 3: The film of embodiment 1, wherein the film is biaxially oriented.

[0103] Embodiment 4: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the inner layer comprises a compatibilizer and a stabilizer. [0104] Embodiment 5: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the stabilizer, if present, is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer.

[0105] Embodiment 6: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the stabilizer, if present, is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

[0106] Embodiment 7: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, further comprising a composition comprising polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 90%, by weight.

[0107] Embodiment 8: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, further comprising a thickness in a range of from 5 microns to 100 microns.

[0108] Embodiment 9: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the inner layer comprises one or more sub-layers.

[0109] Embodiment 10: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

[0110] Embodiment 11: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene/ alpha-olefin copolymer.

[0111] Embodiment 12: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 11, further comprising a composition comprising the compatibilizer, if present, in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

[0112] Embodiment 13: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, further comprising a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer.

[0113] Embodiment 14: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, further comprising ink coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer.

[0114] Embodiment 15: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the composition comprises polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

[0115] Embodiment 16: The film of any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

[0116] Embodiment 17: A packaging film adapted for recycling in a polyolefin recycling stream comprising a coextruded and oriented multilayer film, the packaging film comprising: a first outer layer comprising at least 80% of a first polypropylene, by weight; a second outer layer comprising at least 80% of a second polypropylene, by weight; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer comprises at least one of a) a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1-butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene- styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof, and b) a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof .

[01171 Embodiment 18: The packaging film of embodiment 17, wherein the inner layer comprises a compatibilizer and a stabilizer.

[0118] Embodiment 19: The film of embodiment 17 or 18, wherein the stabilizer is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer.

[0119] Embodiment 20: The film of any one of embodiments 17 to 19, wherein the stabilizer is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

[0120] Embodiment 21: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 20, further comprising a composition comprising polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 75%, by weight.

[0121] Embodiment 22: The packaging film any one of embodiments 17 to 21, further comprising a packaging film composition comprising the compatibilizer in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

[0122] Embodiment 23: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 22, wherein the first polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

[0123] Embodiment 24: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 23, further comprising a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer.

[0124] Embodiment 25: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 24, further comprising ink coupled to the first outer layer.

[0125] Embodiment 26: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 25, further comprising a thickness in a range of from 15 to 100 micron.

[0126] Embodiment 27: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 26, wherein the second polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

[0127] Embodiment 28: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 27, further comprising a patterned cold-seal material located on an exposed surface of the second outer layer. [0128] Embodiment 29: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 28, wherein the inner layer comprises one or more sub-layers.

[0129] Embodiment 30: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 29, wherein the packaging film composition comprises polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

[0130] Embodiment 31: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 30, wherein the packaging film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

[0131] Embodiment 32: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 31, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof.

[0132] Embodiment 33: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 32, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

[0133] Embodiment 34: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 33, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene/ alpha-olefin copolymer.

[0134] Embodiment 35: The packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 34, wherein the packaging film is monoaxially oriented or biaxially oriented.

[0135] Embodiment 36: A packaged product comprising a packaging film of any one of embodiments 17 to 35, and a product; wherein the packaging film is sealed to form a package and the product is enclosed within the package.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claims is:

1. A film comprising: a first outer layer comprising a first polypropylene; a second outer layer comprising a second polypropylene; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer comprises at least one of a) a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1-butene rich 1- butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene- styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof, and b) a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof; and the packaging film is oriented.

2. The film of claim 1, wherein the film is monoaxially oriented.

3. The film of claim 1, wherein the film is biaxially oriented.

4. The film of claim 1 , wherein the inner layer comprises a compatibilizer and a stabilizer.

5. The film of claim 1, wherein the stabilizer, if present, is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer.

6. The film of claim 1, wherein the stabilizer, if present, is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

7. The film of claim 1, further comprising a composition comprising polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 90%, by weight.

8. The film of claim 1, further comprising a thickness in a range of from 5 microns to 100 microns.

9. The film of claim 1, wherein the inner layer comprises one or more sub-layers.

10. The film of claim 1, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

11. The film of claim 1, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

12. The film of claim 1, further comprising a composition comprising the compatibilizer, if present, in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

13. The film of claim 1, further comprising a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer.

14. The film of claim 1, further comprising ink coupled to the first outer layer or the second outer layer.

15. The film of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

16. The film of claim 1, wherein the film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

17. A packaging film adapted for recycling in a polyolefin recycling stream comprising a coextruded and oriented multilayer film, the packaging film comprising: a first outer layer comprising at least 80% of a first polypropylene, by weight; a second outer layer comprising at least 80% of a second polypropylene, by weight; and an inner layer connecting the first outer layer and the second outer layer; wherein the inner layer comprises at least one of a) a compatibilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a 1 -butene rich 1- butene/ethylene plastomer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an olefin block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof, and b) a stabilizer selected from a group consisting essentially of a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer, a heterogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer and a combination thereof .

18. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the inner layer comprises a compatibilizer and a stabilizer.

19. The film of claim 17, wherein the stabilizer is a homogeneously branched linear ethylene polymer.

20. The film of claim 17, wherein the stabilizer is an ethylene/hexene copolymer or an ethylene/octene copolymer.

21. The packaging film of claim 17, further comprising a composition comprising polypropylene in a range of from 15% to 75%, by weight.

22. The packaging film claim 17, further comprising a packaging film composition comprising the compatibilizer in a range of from 10% to 35%, by weight.

23. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the first polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

24. The packaging film of claim 17, further comprising a metallization layer coupled to the first outer layer.

25. The packaging film of claim 17, further comprising ink coupled to the first outer layer.

26. The packaging film of claim 17, further comprising a thickness in a range of from 15 to 100 micron.

27. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the second polypropylene is a C4/C3/C2 terpolymer.

28. The packaging film of claim 17, further comprising a patterned cold-seal material located on an exposed surface of the second outer layer.

29. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the inner layer comprises one or more sub-layers.

30. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the packaging film composition comprises polyolefin in a range of from 80% to 99%, by weight.

31. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the packaging film is recyclable in a polyethylene recycle stream.

32. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is selected from a group consisting essentially of a propylene/ethylene copolymer, a polypropylene heterophasic olefin copolymer, an ethylene propylene rubber, an ethylene propylene diene monomer and a combination thereof.

33. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene-rich propylene/ethylene copolymer.

34. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the compatibilizer, if present, is a propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

35. The packaging film of claim 17, wherein the packaging film is monoaxially oriented or biaxially oriented.

36. A packaged product comprising a packaging film of claim 17, and a product; wherein the packaging film is sealed to form a package and the product is enclosed within the package.