Hostaphan®

Hostaphan film – high-quality PET polyester films for versatile applications

In modern industry, high-quality materials are crucial for the success of technical applications. Hostaphan film, a specially developed PET film from Mitsubishi polyester film, has established itself as an indispensable material in numerous industries. This biaxially oriented film made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) offers exceptional properties, making it the first choice for demanding applications.

From electrical insulation to high-quality packaging solutions – Hostaphan films meet the strictest requirements of modern products. With an impressive temperature range from -70°C to +150°C and excellent mechanical stability, these polyester films set new standards in quality and performance.

What is Hostaphan film?

Hostaphan film is a branded biaxially oriented polyester film manufactured by Mitsubishi under the name HOSTAPHAN®. The material is based on high-quality polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and undergoes a special manufacturing process that makes it one of the most powerful film products on the market.

Definition and manufacturing

The film is produced through biaxial stretching and subsequent heat setting. This process significantly improves mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and accuracy. The biaxial orientation optimally aligns the polymer chains, resulting in very high tensile and tear strength, as well as improved clarity.

Material basis and special properties

PET as a base material already offers excellent properties: transparency, robustness, and chemical resistance. Through special processing, Hostaphan gains additional advantages:

• High tensile strength of 150-240 MPa
• Excellent tear and impact resistance
• Significant abrasion and dimensional stability
• Good barrier properties against gases and water vapor
• Resistance to organic solvents and oils

Temperature resistance

A prominent feature is its exceptional temperature resistance. The film can be used from -70°C to +150°C, with continuous use possible up to 130°C. This heat resistance makes it ideal for demanding environments in electrical engineering and the automotive sector.

Main types of Hostaphan films

The product range includes various variants developed for specific application requirements. Each type offers unique properties for different areas of use.

Hostaphan® RN – the glossy, transparent standard film

Hostaphan RN is the most versatile film in the product line and is available in a wide thickness range from 6 to 500 µm. This variety of material strengths allows for use in diverse applications. The film is characterized by its glossy surface and high transparency.

Particularly important for many customers is EU and FDA compliance for direct food contact. This makes RN the ideal choice for packaging applications where food safety is a top priority. The film is available both untreated and with chemical pre-treatment for improved adhesion.

Hostaphan® GN – the crystal-clear premium film

For applications requiring the highest optical quality, Hostaphan GN offers a mirror-smooth surface with almost flawless clarity. With an available thickness of 50-250 µm, it is particularly suitable for high-quality packaging and optical applications.

The extremely smooth surface quality of this film enables brilliant printing results and gives products a premium appearance. This makes it the preferred choice for luxury packaging and applications where visual presentation is crucial.

Hostaphan® RNK – the high-gloss PET film

With an available thickness of 6-75 µm, RNK offers a high-gloss, transparent surface for prestigious applications. Like RN, this variant is also approved for food contact according to EU and FDA guidelines.

The main application area is in premium packaging and labels, where visual appeal is paramount. The combination of high gloss and transparency gives products a luxurious appearance.

Hostaphan® WDW and WN – white specialty films

The white variants meet specific requirements in various industrial sectors:

WDW is a glossy, brilliant white film with a thickness of 12-65 µm. It is certified for food contact and is excellently suited for decorative and functional packaging where a white, opaque surface is desired.

WN, on the other hand, is significantly thicker (50-350 µm) and translucent white. This robust film is primarily used as a transport or release film, especially in veneer and furniture presses. Its milky white appearance and robust surface make it ideal for industrial applications.

Hostaphan® matte variants (MPK, MK, SPK)

For applications requiring glare-free or diffusive effects, Hostaphan offers various matte surfaces:

• MPK: Matte on one side, with high transparency (12, 50 µm)
• MK: Deep matte on both sides (12-250 µm)
• SPK: Super matte with medium surface roughness (19, 23 µm)

All matte variants are suitable for food contact and can be pre-treated for downstream applications. They are particularly suitable for applications where reflections must be avoided or a special aesthetic effect is desired.

Silicone-coated Hostaphan films for release applications

Siliconized Hostaphan films have established themselves as indispensable release liners in various industries. The silicone layer is cross-linked on the PET and gives the film special “release properties” – products can be easily detached without sticking.

Functional principle of release technology

Siliconization is achieved by applying a special silicone layer to the PET base film. This layer is then cured and cross-linked, creating defined release forces. Depending on the silicone system used, various peel strengths can be achieved.

Hostaphan® RNKS – specialty film for FRP applications

Hostaphan RNKS was specially developed for fiberglass composite panel production and is available in 15 and 23 µm thickness. This film is characterized by excellent release performance and high gloss.

A particular advantage is the possibility of reuse with proper handling. This makes RNKS an economical solution for FRP manufacturers who regularly require release films. The glossy surface also ensures a high-quality surface finish for the produced composites.

Silicone-coated standard types (RN 2prk, RNK 2prk/SLK)

The siliconized standard types are defined by their specific silicone systems:

2PRK Series: Extremely cross-linked silicone layer without migration, ideal for applications where absolute purity is required. These films are particularly suitable for food applications and medical products.

2SLK Series: Highly cured silicone for various release applications with robust tear-off properties. The thickness range of 12-75 µm allows for use in various applications, from fine labels to robust industrial applications.

Specialty silicone films (RDIS Si63o, Sif1o, RNK SAO)

For special requirements, Hostaphan offers specialized silicone variants:

SI63O offers ultra-low release forces (23-36 µm thickness) for the most sensitive applications. This film is suitable for adhesives that can only tolerate minimal peel strength.

SIF1O is approved for food contact according to EU regulations (23-36 µm) and combines release properties with food safety.

RNK SAO (75 µm) has been optimized for offline siliconization and offers processing flexibility for special customer requirements.

Sustainable PCR-based BOPET films

Pütz Folien is intensively involved with PCR-based BOPET films from various manufacturers and already offers functional solutions for a wide range of applications. Since there is still no uniform standard in the production and use of PCR films, individual consultation is crucial depending on customer-specific requirements.

The available PCR-based films contain between 30% and 99% post-consumer recycled material (PCR), depending on the manufacturer and type. They cover a broad spectrum – from standard films to specialties such as white/white foamed, metallized, or crystal-clear variants.

Environmental benefits and sustainability

PCR-based BOPET films contribute significantly to reducing the CO2 footprint, as the use of recycled materials requires less energy and usually shorter transport routes. The use of PCR material supports the circular economy and reduces waste volumes.

The mechanical properties of PCR films are comparable to virgin PET, meaning that no compromises have to be made in terms of performance. BOPET films are particularly easy to recycle due to their clean, mono-material-based structure, as they do not contain any plasticizers, heavy metals, or other contaminants.

Recycling benefits at a glance:

• Complete recyclability of the base material
• Compatibility with industrial recycling processes
• Reduced raw material consumption
• Multiple usability and reuse

Challenges:

• Separation of PET waste from foreign matter (e.g., laminates, adhesives) is necessary
• Avoid contamination by other substrates (e.g., paper labels, PP screw caps)
• Improve the collection and sorting of PET films, bottles, and textiles

PCR technology and circular economy

PCR films show the way to a sustainable future. Thanks to the post-consumer content of 30–99%, the ecological footprint and crude oil consumption are significantly reduced. Closed material cycles contribute to the conservation of resources and strengthen the circular economy.

Future prospects

Development is moving towards even more sustainable solutions:

• Increase of PCR content up to 100%
• Development of bio-based PET variants
• Improved recycling technologies for higher raw material quality
• Optimization of production processes
• General increase in reusable plastic waste

Hostaphan® PCR PR3N variants

The PCR PR3N family includes various siliconized variants for release applications:

• PCR PR3N 2PRK: Transparent siliconized film for release liners
• PCR PR3N 2SLK: Alternative siliconization for different release requirements

Available in thicknesses of 19, 23, 30, and 36 µm, these products are aimed at environmentally conscious processors and brands. An important limitation is that PCR variants are currently not approved for direct food contact.

Application areas of Hostaphan films

The versatility of Hostaphan is demonstrated in its wide range of applications across various industries. Each sector presents specific requirements that are optimally met by the different film types.

Electrical insulation and electronics

In electrical engineering, Hostaphan has become indispensable. The film is used for slot insulation, phase insulation, and cover insulation in motors, generators, and transformers. Its high dielectric strength up to 130°C continuous use makes it ideal for electric motors and generator construction.

Specific applications in electrical engineering:

• Slot insulation in electric motors
• Wedge covers for windings
• Insulation in transformers and inductors
• Carrier film for flexible printed circuits
• Insulation in relays and other components

Resistance to impregnating and potting compounds is particularly important, as these solvents must not attack the insulation. The high dielectric strength of 150-200 kV/mm enables use in high-voltage applications.

Packaging industry and food contact

In the packaging industry, Hostaphan offers excellent protection for sensitive products. Its barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and aromas preserve the freshness and shelf life of food.

EU and FDA compliant variants allow direct contact with food. The transparent and white versions offer various possibilities for product presentation. Especially in premium packaging, the highly glossy variants are valued.

Typical packaging applications:

• Closures and stand-up pouches
• Laminated cartons and protective layers
• Labels with high print quality
• Bag-in-box systems
• Aroma barrier layers

Industrial applications with Hostaphan film

Beyond electrical engineering and packaging, Hostaphan finds use in many industrial sectors. As a release film in veneer and furniture presses, it prevents sticking during the pressing process.

In the printing industry, it serves as an age-stable, high-quality printing film. Its chemical resistance to various solvents makes it the preferred choice for demanding production environments.

Further industrial applications:

• Mechanical barriers and protective films
• Interleaving film in wood processing
• Medical applications (hydrogel carriers)
• Laboratory products and analytical applications
• Solar module backsheets

Technical properties and quality characteristics

The exceptional properties of Hostaphan result from careful material selection and an optimized manufacturing process. These technical data are crucial for correct product selection.

Mechanical properties

The mechanical properties significantly surpass most other film materials:

Chemical and thermal resistance

Hostaphan shows excellent resistance to a variety of substances:

Resistant to:

• Organic solvents
• Oils and greases
• Salt solutions
• Various inorganic substances
• Fungi and bacteria
• UV radiation (with appropriate version)

Not resistant to:

• Strong bases at high temperatures
• Certain phenols
• Prolonged hydrolytic conditions

The absence of plasticizers and the fact that no migration occurs make Hostaphan particularly safe for food applications. The film is odorless and tasteless.

Electrical Properties of Hostaphan Film

For electrical applications, the dielectric properties are crucial:

• Dielectric strength: 150-200 kV/mm
• Volume resistivity: >10¹⁴ Ω·cm
• Dielectric constant: 3.2 (at 1 kHz)
• Dissipation factor: <0.005 (at 1 kHz)

These values enable use in demanding electrical applications, where high insulation and low losses are required.

Processing and handling of Hostaphan films

Proper processing and storage of Hostaphan are crucial for optimal results. Incorrect handling can lead to quality issues and production downtimes.

Storage and transport

Optimal storage conditions are essential for maintaining film properties:
Recommended storage conditions:

• Temperature: 15-25°C
• Relative humidity: below 60%
• Protection from direct sunlight
• Prevent mechanical damage
• Limit stacking heights according to thickness

Rolls should be stored on suitable storage systems to prevent deformation. With proper storage, Hostaphan retains its properties for years.

Processing instructions

Processing requires adjusted parameters for optimal results:

Cutting and die-cutting:

• EU regulation 10/2011 for plastics in contact with food
• Adjust cutting speed to thickness
• Burr-free cuts for clean edges

Thermoforming and heat sealing:

• Temperature control between 80-120°C
• Ensure even heat distribution
• Observe cooling time for dimensional stability

Coating and printing:

• Surface pretreatment for better adhesion
• Choose compatible inks and adhesives
• Observe drying parameters

Quality control

During processing, regular quality controls should be performed:

• Visual inspection for damage
• Thickness measurement for critical applications
• Adhesion test for coated variants
• Electrical testing for insulation applications

Technical standards and certifications of Hostaphan film

Hostaphan meets numerous international standards and certifications required for various applications.

Food safety

For food applications, corresponding approvals are essential:

• EU regulation 10/2011 for food contact plastics
• FDA CFR 21 for the US market
• Migration tests according to EU standards
• Sensory tests for taste and odor

Electrical standards

In electrical engineering, strict standards must be observed:

• IEC 60674 for electrical insulation
• UL approvals for the North American market
• VDE tests for German applications
• Flame-retardant versions according to UL 94

Quality management systems

Manufacturing takes place under certified quality management systems:

• ISO 9001 for quality management
• ISO 14001 for environmental management
• FSSC 22000 for food safety
• ISO 50001 for energy management

Conclusion and outlook on Hostaphan®

Hostaphan film has established itself as an indispensable material in modern industry. The combination of exceptional properties, versatile application possibilities, and increasing sustainability makes it the ideal choice for demanding applications.
The continuous further development, especially in the area of PCR technology, demonstrates the commitment to environmentally friendly solutions. With the growing demand for sustainable materials, Hostaphan will play an even more important role in the future.

For companies requiring high-quality polyester films, Hostaphan offers a reliable and high-performance solution. The correct selection of the film type and collaboration with experienced suppliers are key to success.

Investing in high-quality materials like Hostaphan pays off in the long run through improved product quality, reduced downtimes, and satisfied customers. In an increasingly competitive world, the right material choice can make all the difference.