CA2226865A1

CA2226865A1 - Film having modified surface characteristics through use of combination of spherical and lamellar particulates

Info

Publication number: CA2226865A1
Application number: CA002226865A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Solomon Bekele
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Cryovac LLC
Priority date: 1995-07-11
Filing date: 1996-07-11
Publication date: 1997-01-30
Also published as: AR002804A1; NZ312951A; ATE234338T1; DE69626677T2; DE69626677D1; JPH11509254A; MY132221A; WO1997003113A1; EP0869989B1; MX9800323A; BR9609719A; AU6489596A; AU724553B2; EP0869989A1; US5925454A

Abstract

A combination of lamellar and spherical particulates provides a film with desired slip and antiblock characteristics, in the absence of loose dust on the surface of the film. The film exhibits improved Machinability over comparative films having either lamellar or spherical particulates. The invention is also directed to a composition of matter comprising a polymer having the mixture of lamellar and spherical particulates.

Description

WO 97/03113 PCT/US96/llS73 FILM HAVIN~G MODIFIED SUR~ACE CHARACTERISTICS THROUGH USE OF
COMBINATION OF SPHERICAL AND LAMELLAR PARTICULATES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generaLy to films, both monolayer fiLms and multilayer films, and particularly to packaging fiLms. The present invention also relates to packages COlll~llaillg products packaged in a filrn. The present invention is particularly related to films having a h~laliv~ly lalw film-to-film ~ oPffi- i~nt of friction as weL as a high resistance to blocking.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
For some time it has been known to provide loose dust, e.g., loose corn starch dust, on an outer surface of a film, in order to facilitate its subsequent processing on high speed packaging machines. That is, dust applied to the surface of the film lowers the film-to-filrn coefficient of friction, i.e., acts as a slip agent (lubricant), as well as improving the re~i~Ld~ of the fiLm to 15 "~lo.~,g", i.e, as an anti-blocking agent. Blocking is an undesirable adhesion between layers of plastic, particularly r olled up film, that may develop during storage.
For some time it has also been known to incorporate particulate antiblocking agent into the resin. The in~:ol~o-dled antiblocking agent functions by forming minute protrusions that maintain s~alalillg air spaces that inL~rt re with adhesion, i.e., blocking.
However, the appLcation of dust to the film is detrimental to the quality of the atrnosphere in which the film is manufactured and used, and the dust is subject to sloughing off of the fiLm during shippage, etc., and other undesirable effects. Furthermore, filrns having antiblocking agent inculy~ldLt!d into the resin do not possess a desired combination of slip and antiblock ~rop~llies. Thus, il: would be desirable to reduce or eliminate dust on the surface of the film, 25 while providing the film with desired slip and antiblock ~,.C.~ 5.
It has also been known to provide the film with a slip agent, which is generally provided in at least the outer layer(s) of the film. The slip agent migrates to one or more outer surface(s) of the film, i.e, "blooms" to one or more outer surfaces, thereby decreasing the filrn-to-film co.offi~i~nt of friction, i.e., resulting in a film which slides more easily against itself and other materials.
30 However, it has been found tnat: (1) the desired coefficient of friction is not obtained until the slip agent is given adequ,ate time to bloom to the film surface, and (2) the blooming of the slip agent to the surface of the film can adversely affect the printability of the film, as ink adhesion can be reduced by the presence of the slip agent.

CA 0222686~ 1998-01-13 W O 97/03113 PCTrUS96/llS73 Thus, it would be desirable to provide a film which exhibits a low film-to-film co.-fr;. ;-. .l of friction, as well as a low fi1m-to-equipment/metal coPffl~nt of friction, along with good Al~liUo~k yl O~:l ~ies, without having loose dust on the surface of the film. It would be still more desirable to provide a film which exhibits low film-to-film coe[[i~i~nL of friction without the ~ l.ce of a slip agent which i~ ~s with the printability of the film.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It has been discovered that a desired combination of slip and antiblock chara~ ics can be achieved by providing the outer surface(s) of a film with a combination of 10 substantially lamellar particulates and substantially spherical particulates. Although inorganic particulates are believed to be pler~.,ed, it is believed that substantially spherical and substantially Iam~IIAr organic particulates could also be beneficially used. The substantially lamellar particulates are believed to provide the desired slip characteristics, while the substantially spherical particulates are believed to provide the desired antiblock 15 chala~L~ ics. Furthermore, if a conventional wax-type slip agent is not used in the film of the invention, the slip characteristics can be obtained immediately upon formation of the film, rather than requiring time to bloom to the surface of the film.
As a first aspect, the present invention is directed to a film containing a composition.
The composition comprises a mixture which comprises inorganic substantially spherical 20 particulates, and inorganic substantially lamellar particulates. The substantially spherical particulates and the substantially lamellar particulates are present in an outer film layer and on an outer surface of the film. The substantially spherical particulates preferably have an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 microns; more preferably, from about 1 to 20 microns; still more preferably, from about 3 to 10 microns; and yet still more preferably, from 25 about 3 o 4 microns. Preferably, the inorganic substantially lamellar particulates have an average aspect ratio, based on either length to thickness, or on diameter to thickness, of at least about 5:1, and preferably the average aspect ratio is as high as possible. Presently, the available lamellar particulates have an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 to 20:1.
However, if available, preferably the lamellar particulates preferably have an average aspect 30 ratio of from about 5:1 to 100:1; more preferably, from about to 10:1 to 50:1; still more preferably, about 20:1 (as 20:1 is the most common average aspect ratio currently available).
Preferably, the inorganic substantially lamellar particulates also have a major dimension, i.e., largest dimension, of from about 0.1 to 15 microns; more preferably, from about 1 to 10 microns; still more preferably, from about 1 to 8 microns.

CA 0222686~ 1998-01-13 W O 97/03113 PCT~US9~11573 T!he substantially spherical particulates a~d the substantially l~mf~ r particulates are ~>les~lll together ir~ an outer film layer and on an outer surface of the film. Preferably, the llu~lu~ is a subst,~nffally homogeneous llu~lul~ of the substanffally spherical particulates and the substanffally lamellar particulates.
S Preferably, l:he substantially lamellar particulates have a hardness of from about 1 to 7, on a Mohs hardness scale; more preferably, from about 1 to 5; still more preferably from about 1 to 3.
Preferably, the composition further comprises a slip enhancer cO~ g at least onemember selected fiom the group co~isLil~g of fatty acid amlde, oxidized polyethylene, fatty 10 acid ester, and fatty acid alcohol. More preferably, the slip enhancer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of erucamide, oleamide, stearamide, behenamide, oxidized polyethylene wax, glycerol monostearate, metallic stearate. Calcium stearate is a particularly l~ier~J led metallic stearate, and ethylene bis-stearamide is a particularly ~>r~"~d bL~alalllide. Preferably, the slip enhancer is present in the outer film layer in an 15 amount of from about 50 to 10,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer layer;
more preferably, from about 100 to 5,000 ppm; still more preferably, from about 200 to 1000 ppm; and yet still more preferably, from about 200 to 800 ppm.
The composition may further comprise a printabilit~ enhancer comprising a polar polymer. Preferably, the polar polymer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/ester/maleic anhydride terpolymer, ethylene/ester/glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer, and ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer. Preferably, the printability enhancer is present in the outer film layer in an amount of from about 1 to 25 percent, based on the weight of the outer film layer; more preferably, from about 2 to 20 percent; still more preferably, from about 5 to 15 percent; yet still more preferably, from about 5 to 10 percent.
Preferably, the substantially spherical particulates are present in the outer layer of the film at a concentral.ion of from about 500-50,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer film layer; more preferably, from about 1,000 to 30,000 ppm; still more preferably, from about 2,000 to 20,000 ppm; and yet still more preferably, from about 4,000 to 8,000 ppm.
Preferably, the substantially lamellar particulates are present in the outer layer of the film at a concentration of from about 500 to 50,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer film layer; more preferably, from about 1000 to 30,000 ppm; still more preferably, from about 1,000 to 20,000 ppm; and yet still more preferably, from about 2,000 to 4,000 ppm.
Preferably, the substantially spherical particulates comprise at least one member selected the group consisting of silica and silicate; more preferably, at least one member CA 0222686~ l998-0l-l3 W O 97/03113 PCT~US96/11573 s~l~t~1 the group consisting of natural silica, synthetic silica, and silicate; and still more preferably, at least one member selected the group colIai~U.,lg of diatomaceous earth, fumed :jy~ lic silica, pl~~ ted synthetic silica, gelled synthetic silica, sodium calcium silicate, and sodium c~ m al~llninullI silicate. r Preferably, the substantially IAmPIIAr particulates co~ liae silicate; more preferably, at least one m~mh~r selected the group cGlIai~ lg of magnesium silicate and hydrated alu..-il-u--- silicate; still more preferably, at least one member selected from the group colIais~ g of talc and kaolin.
Although the film of the present invention can be a monolayer filrn, preferably the 10 film is a multilayer film. More preferably, the multilayer film comprises an 02-barrier layer collI~lia~.lg at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, and polyester. More preferably, the multilayer film comprises an outer first layer, an inner second layer, and an outer third layer.
The outer first layer preferably coll.~ise~ at least one member selected from the group 15 co~islLI~g of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide; the inner second layer is the 02-barrier layer, and comprises at least one member 5PlPCtP~ from the group consisting of polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, and polyester. The outer third layer preferably comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, 20 ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide.
A ~r~r~ d embodiment of this ~le~elled multilaver film further comprises a fourth layer between the first layer and the second layer. The fourth layer comprises at least one , member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer,ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide. In this film, the first layer and the fourth 25 layer preferably each comprise crosslinked polymer, and the second layer and the third layer do not comprise crosslinked polymer.
In yet another embodiment, the multilayer film further comprises a fifth layer and a sixth layer. The fifth layer is a first tie layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and 30 anhydride-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer. The slxth layer is a second tie layer colll~liaing at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer. The fifth layer is between the fourth layer and the second layer, and the sixth CA 02226865 l998-0l-l3 W O 97/03113 PCTrUS96/11573 layer is between the second layer and the third layer. Preferably, all layers of the multilayer film cc m~liae crosslinked polymer.
Another tJ~ elleli embodiment of the three-layer film described above further comprises a fourth ]Layêr. The fourth layer is a tie layer and comprises at least one member 5 s~l~cte~l from the g,TOUp CU~ Lllg of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer. Preferably, the fourth layer is a first tie layer and is between the first layer and the second layer, and the film further colllp~isès a fifth layer, the fifth layer being a second tie layer, the fifth layer comprising at least one member s~lect~d from the group consisffng of ethylene/carboxylic l0 acid copolymer, etl-ylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, the fifth layer being between the second layer and the third layer.
One ~re~.l~d multilayer film according to the present invention is substantially~ylllmellical with re~ipect to both layer thickness and layer chemical composition.
Preferably, the film has a total free shrink, at 185~F, of from about 10 to 100 percent;
more preferably, from about 10 to 80 p~ l, sffll more preferably, from about 20 to 60 percent. Preferably" the film is biaxially oriented.
Preferably, the film comprises crosslinked polymer.
As a second aspect, the present inventiorl is directed to a film tube comprising the film as set forth above. One p,ef~ d film tube has a dustless tube outside surface having 20 the composition a's set forth above, and a tube inside surface having dust thereon.
Preferably, the dust comprises at least one member selected from the group conai:,lil.g of aluminum silica, silicon dioxide, sodium calcium alumino silicate, magnesium silicate, and calcium silicate; more preferably, the dust comprises at least one member selected from the group ~OIlsia~ g of corn starch, potato starch, talc, and silica. The tube can be seamless or 25 comprise a longitudlinal seam. The longitudinal seam can comprise a lap seal, a fin seal, or a butt seal with a baclcseaming tape.
As a third aspect, the p3resent invention is directed to bags (both end-seal bags and side-seal bags) and casings (both seamless casings and backseamedl casings) COIII~I,aillg the film or tube according to the invention. The present invention is also directed to packages comprising a 30 product packaged in a bag or casing CO~ iaillg the 3film or tube according to the present invention. Typical products include meat, preferably beef, pork, fouL fish, lamb, etc., both fresh as well as proc~ccefl, e.g., sausage.
As a fourt h aspect, the present invention relates to a composition of matter cum~ g a thermoplastic polymer, inorganic substantially spherical particulates, and CA 0222686~ l998-0l-l3 W O 97/03113 PCT~US96/11573 inorganic sub~Ldl~ially lamellar particulates. The inorganic substantially spherical particulates have an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 mi~lulls. The inorganic substantially lAm~llAr particulates have an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 to 40:1, and a major dimension of from about 0.1 to 15 microns. Preferably, the polymer co~ es ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, more preferably, the polymer consists of ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.
For a dispersion conc~l-Lldl~, preferably the polymer is present in an amount of from about 70 to 99.9 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition, with the inorganic particulates present in an amount of from about 0.1 to 30 weight percent, based on the weight 10 of the composition. More preferably, the polymer is present in an amount of from about 85 to 95 weight ~ercélll, based on the weight of the composition, with the inorganic particulates present in an amount of from about 5 to 15 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition.
In a final product, preferably the polymer is present in an amount of from about 95 to 15 99.9 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition, with the inorganic particulates are present in an amount of from about 0.1 to 5 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition. More preferably, the polymer is present in an amount of from about 98.5 to 99.5 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition, with the inorganic particulates present in an amount of from about 0.5 to 1.5 weight percent, based on the weight of the 20 composiffon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred multilayer film according to the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a schematic view of a process for producing multilayer films in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
As used herein, the term "film" is used in a generic sense to include plastic web, regardless 30 of whether it is film or sheet.
As used herein, the term "package" refers to a product packaged in a packaging material, such as a film.
As used herein, the phrases "seal layer", "sealing layer", "heat seal layer", and "sealant layer", refer to an outer fiLrn layer, or layers, involved in the sealing of the film to itself, another CA 02226865 l998-0l-l3 W O 97/03113 PCT~US96/11573 film layer of the sarne or another film, and/or another article which is not a film. It should also be reco~Snized that in g,eneral~ up to the outer 3 rnils of a film can be involved in the ~aling of the film to itself or another 1ayer. With respect to packages having only fin-type seals, as olJyosed to lap-type seals, the phrase "sealant layer" generally refers to the inside filrn layer of a package, as well 5 as su~ g layers within 3 rnils of the inside surface of the sealant layer, the inside layer frequently also serv3ing as a food contact layer in the packaging of foods.
As used herein, the terrn "seal" refers to any seal of a first region of a film surface to a second region of a filrn surface, wherein the seal is forrned by heating the regions to at least their e seal initiation l~ utlal~res. The heating can be ~ ru~ ed by any one or more of a 10 wide variety of manners, such as using a hot wire, hot knife, heated bar, hot air, infrared ra-liAti~ n, ulllasullic sealing, ek. More preferably, the seal is formed by hot wire and/or hot knife.
As is known to those of skill in the art, a static lap seal is another seal useful in forrning a package from the filrn of the present invention.
As used herein, the phrase "...present in an outer film layer and on an outer surface of 15 the filrn..." refers to an outer fiLrn layer which has the recitecl components within the cross-section of the layer, as well as on the outer surface of the filrn.
As usecl herein, the term "oriented" refers to a polymer-containing material which has been stretched at an elevated l~ y~ldlLlre (the orientation temperature), followed by being "set" in the stretched configuration by cooling the material while substantially retaining the stretched 20 ~ ions. Upon subsequently heating unrestrained, unannealed, oriented polymer-containing material to its orientation Irmy~:ldLul~ heat shrinkage is produced. More particularly, the term "oriented", as used herein, refers to oriented films, wherein the orientation can be produced in one or rnore of a variety of manners.
As used herein, the phrase "o~ ,ldlion ratio" refers to the multiplication product of the 25 extent to which the plastic film material is expanded in several directions, usually two directions perpendicuLar to one another. Exya~sion in the machine dlrection is herein referred to as "drawing", whereas expansion in the transverse direction is herein referred to as "~llel~l~illg". For films extruded through an annular die, sll~lching is obtained by "blowing" the film to produce a bubble. For such films, drawing is obtained by passing the film through two sets of powered nip 30 rolls, with the do~~ a--l set having a higher surface speed than the uy~ am set, with the resulting draw ratio being the surface speed of the downstream set of nip rolls divided by the surface speed of the upstream set of nip rolls. The degree of orientation is also referred to as the Oliellldlioll ratio, or sometimes as the "racking ratio".

CA 0222686~ 1998-01-13 WO 97/0311:~ PCT/US96/llS73 As used herein, the term "lllullO~ refers to a ~lalively simple cc~ oul~d, usually col.L~ g carbon and of low molecular weight, which can react to form a polymer by colllbillillg with itself or with other similar molecules or compounds.
As used herein, the term "comonomer" refers to a monomer which is copoly... . ;,~.1 with 5 at least one ~r~.~l.L monomer in a copoly ~ ,.1 reaction, the result of which is a copolymer.
As used herein, the term "polymer" refers to the product of a poly~ n reaction, and is inclusive of homopolymers, copolymers, terpolymers, etc. In general, the layers of a film can consist essentially of a single polymer, or can have still additional polymers together therewith, i.e., blended therewith.
As used herein, the term "copolymer" refers to polymers formed by the poly~ .~alion reaction of at least two di~r~.~..l monomers. For example, the term "copolymer" includes the copolym~ aliull reaction product of ethylene and an alpha-olefin, such as 1-hexene. However, the term "copolymer" is also inclusive of, for example, the copolylll~l~dLion of a mixture of ethylene, propylene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene.
As used herein, a copolymer identified in terms of a plurality of monomers, e.g,"propylene/ethylene copolymer", refers to a copolymer in which either monomer may copolymerize in a higher weight or molar percent than the other monomer or monomers.
However, the first listed monomer preferably polymerizes in a higher weight percent than the second listed monomer, and, for copolymers which are terpolymers, quadripolymers, etc., 20 preferably the first monomer copolymerizes in a higher weight percent than the second monomer, and preferably the second monomer copolymerizes in a higher weight percent than the third monomer, etc.
As used herein, copolymers are identified, i.e, named, in terms of the monomers from which the copolymers are produced. For example, the phrase "propylene/ethylene copolymer"
25 refers to a copolymer produced by the copolyll~ aLion of both propylene and ethylene, with or without additional comonomer(s).
As used herein, the word "mer" refers to a unit of a polymer, as derived from a monomer used in the polylll~.~dlion reaction. For example, the phrase "alpha-olefin polymerization units"
refers to a unit in, for example, an ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, the polyllleli~dLion unit being 30 that "residue" which is derived from the alpha-olefin monomer after it reacts to become a portion of the polymer chain, i.e., that portion of the polymer contributed by an individual alpha-olefin monomer after it reacts to become a portion of the polymer chain.
As used herein, terminology employing a "/" with respect to the chemical identity of a copolymer (e.g., "an ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer"), identifies the comonomers which are WO 97/03113 PCTIUS96/llS73 copoly..~ ~ to ~,ro~luce the copolymer. As used herein, "eL}~yklIe alpha-olefin copolymer" is the equivalent of "ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer."
As used herein, the phrase "h~ lu~ ~euus polymer" refers to poly-~ lI reaction products of h~k-Iiv~ly wide variaffon in molecular weight and relaffvely wide variaffon in co.lI~o~ilion distribulion, i.e., typical polymers ~r~>dled, for ~ lc, 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 Cl M) linear homo~ eous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers produced by Mitsui PetroclI~ al Col~ dLion, using Ziegler-Natta catalysts), heterogeneous polymers typically contain a relatively wide variety of chain lengths and comonomer ~l.~lages.
As used here.in, the phrase "homogeneous polymer" refers to polymerization reaction products of relaffvely narrow molecular weight distribution and relaffvely narrow cc,~ ,o~iIion distribution. Homo~ eous polymers are useful in variûus layers of the multilayer film used in the present invenffon. Homogeneous polymers are structurally ~1irr~l.I from heterogeneous polymers, in that homogeneous polymers exhibit a relatively even sequencing of comonomers within a chain, a lllillUlillg of sequence Lli~ll.bulion in all chains, and a similarity of length of all chains, i.e., a narrower molecular weight distribution. Furthermûre, homûgeneous polymers are typically prepared w;ing metallocene, or other single-site type catalysis, rather than using Ziegler Natta catalysts.
More particularly, homogeneous ethylene/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)~ co,,I~o~iIion distribution breadth index (CDBI), and narrow melting point range and srngle melt point behavior. The molecular weight distribution (Mw/ Mn)~ also known as poly~isl,l, ,iIy, may be determined by gel permeation chromatography. The homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers useful in this invention generally has (Mw/Mn) of less than 2.7;
preferably from about 1.9 to 2.5; more preferably, from about 1.9 tû 2.3. The col,I~o~iIion distribution breadth index (CDBI) of such homogeneous ethylene/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 comonomer content within 50 percent (i.e., plus or minus 50%) of the median total molar comonomer content. The CDBI of linear polyethylene, which does not contarn a comonomer, is defined to be 100% . The C~ o~iLion Distribuffon Breadth Index (CDBI) is d~ lllilIed via tlhe technique of Temperature Rising Elution Fractionation (IREF). CDBI
~t~rmination clearly distinguishes the homogeneous copolymers used in the present invention (narrow co~lIpo:,iIioll distribution as AC~CPCC~d by CDBI values generally above 70%) from W O 97103113 PCTrUS96tllS73 hel~Iog~-eous polymers such as VLDPE's which are available cOllu~leI~ially which generally have a broad coIl~oailion ~lial~ ulion as a~ el1 by CDBI values generally less than 55%. The CDBI of a copolymer is readily calculated from data obtained from l~lu~ues known in the art, such as, for e~cull~lc, TREF as des-Iibed, for example, in Wild et al., T. Poly. Sci. Poly. Phys. Ed., Vol. 20, p.441 (1982). PIeÇeldl)ly~ the homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers have a CDBI greater than about 70%, i.e., a CDBI of from about 70% to 99%. Such homogeneous polymers exhibit a relatively narrow melting point range, in cOI~ l;aol) with "heterogeneous copolymers", i.e., polymers having a CDBI of less than 55%. Preferably, the homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers exhibit an essentially singular melting point characteristic, with a peak melting point (Tm)~ as deterrnined by Di~ l,lial ~d ul~lg Colorimetry (DSC), of from about 60~C to 105~C Preferably the homogeneous copolymer has a DSC peak Tm of from about 80~C to 100~C. As used herein, the phraâe "essentially single melting point" means that at least about 80%, by weight, of the material corresponds to a single Tm peak at a l~ ueIdl~lre within the range of from about 60~C to 105~C, and essentially no substantial fraction of the material has a 1 5 peak melting point in excess of about 115~C., as determined by DSC analysis. DSC measul eII ~I lla are made on a Perkin Elmer System 7 Thermal Analysis System. Melting information Ie~Ol led are second melting data, i.e., the sample is heated at a programrned rate of 10~C./min. to a lelll~ldlulè below its critical range. The sample is then reheated (2nd melting) at a programmed rate of 10~C/min. The ~l~ael~e of higher melting peaks is detrimental to film l~Iul~ellies such as haze, and coIlllJlullliaea the chances for meaningful reduction in the seal initiation le~ eIdL~lre of the final film.
A homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer can, in general, be prepared by the copolyIlleliGdLion of ethylene and any one or more alpha-olefin. Preferably, the alpha-olefin is a G~20 alpha-monoolefin, more preferably, a C4-cl~ alpha-monoolefin, sti~l more preferably, a C4-CO alpha-monoolefin. Still more preferably, the alpha-olefin comprises at least one member sf~lPctPrl from the group cunsialing of butene-l, hexene-l, and octene-1, i.e., 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene, re:~e lively. Most preferably, the alpha-olefin comprises octene-1, and/or a blend of hexene-1 and butene-1.
PI~a~es for ~lelJdlillg and using homogeneous polymers are diC~lnsef~ in U.S. Patent No. 5,206,075, U.S. Patent No. 5,241,031, and PCT International Application WO 93/03093, each of which is hereby incul~uldled by reference thereto, in its entirety. Further details regarding the production and use of homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers are ~i~rlose~l in PCI
International Publication Number WO 90/03414, and PCr International Publication Number WO

93/031)93, both of which designate Exxon Chemical Patents, Inc. as the A~pLicdl~L, and both of which are hereby inco.yu.al~d by reference thereto, in their n:al,e~ e ~ s.
Still another genus of homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers is ~ )5e~ in U.S. Pabent No. 5,2i'2,236, to LAI, et al., and U.S. Patent No. 5,278,272, to LAI, et al., both of S which are hereby il lcol~uldlt!d by ,~r~ ~ce thereto, in their r ea~ e ~. llireUes.
As used herein, the term "polyolefin" refers to any polymerized olefin, which can be linear, L,ldll~lled, cyclic, aliphatic, aromatic, substituted, or unsubstituted. More spe iri~dlly, included in the term polyolefin alre homopolymers of olefin, copolymers of olefin, copolymers of an olefin and a non-olefinic comonomer copolymerizable with the olefin, such as vinyl monomers, mn~lif~
10 polymersi thereof, and the like. Specific examples include polyethylene homopolymer, polypropylene homopolymer, polybutene, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, propylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, butene/alpha-olefin copolymer, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene/butyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene/methyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene~/acrylic acid copolymer, ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer, modified 15 polyolefin resin, ionomer resin, polymethyl~ el~e, etc. Modified polyolefin resin is inclusive of modified polymer ~ dl~d by copolymerizang the homopolymer of the olefin or copolymer thereof with an unsaturated carboxylic acid, e.g., maleic acid, fumaric acid or the Li-ke, or a derivative thereof such as the anhydride, ester or metal salt or the like. It could also be obtained by ..lcol~olalillg into the olefin homopolymer or copolymer, an unsaturated carboxylic acid, e.g., 20 maleic acid, fumaric acid or the like, or a derivative thereof such as the anhydride, ester or metal salt or the Like.
As used herein, terms identifying polymers, such as "polyamide", "polyester", ''polyLu~ll,alle'', etc. are inclusive of not only polymers comprising repeating units derived from mullulll~la known to polymerize to form a polymer of the named type, but are also inclusive of 25 comonomers, derivaltives, etc. which can copolymerize with monomers known to polymerize to produce the named polymer. For example, the term "polyamide" encompasses both polymers C~ ~e~l-,,g units derived from monomers, such as caprolactam, which polymerize to form a polyamide, as well as copolymers derived from the copolym~li~lion of caprolactam with a comonomer which when polymerized alone does not result in the formation of a polyamide.
30 Furthermore, terms identifying polymers are also incluslve of mixtures, blends, etc. of such polymers with other polymers of a different type. More preferably, however, the polyolefin is a the polymerization product of one or more unsubstituted olefins, the polyamide is the polyl,lt l~dlioll product of one or more unsubstituted amides, etc.

W O 97/03113 PCTrUS96/llS73 As used herein, the phrase "ethylene alpha-olefin copolymer", and "ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer", refer to such ht~ oE~ eu~s materials as linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), and very low and ultra low density polyethylene (VLDPE and ULDPE); and homog~l.ecus polymers such as m~ r~e-cataly~d EXACT (l M) linear homog~lleu~ls ethylene/alpha olefin copolymer resins olJLdillal~la from the Exxon Chemical Company, of Baytown, Texas, and TAFMER (TM) linear homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer resins obtainable from the Mitsui Petrochemical Cc.l~ulaLiull. All these materials generally include copolymers of ethylene with one or more comonomers 5f'1ff'tP~ from C4 to Cl0 alpha-olefin such as butene-1 (i.e., 1-butene), hexene-1, octene-1, etc. in which the molecules of the copolymers co~ De long chains 10 with relatively few side chain branches or cross-linked structures. This molecular structure is to be ~:ulllla~Led with conventional low or medium density polyethylenes which are more highly l~laln;lled than their r~ve liv~ cuLulL~l~a- l~. The heterogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin commonly known as LLDPE has a density usually in the range of from about 0.91 grams per cubic centimeter to about 0.94 grams per cubic ~ L~ . Other ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers, such as the 15 long chain branched homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymers available from The Dow Chemical Company, known as AFFINITY (TM) resins, are also included as another type of homogeneous ethylene/ alpha-olefin copolymer useful in the present invention.
In general, the ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer comprises a copolymer resulting from the copolymerization of from about 80 to 99 weight percent ethylene and from 1 to 20 weight percent 20 alpha-olefin. Preferably, the ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer comprises a copolymer resulting from the copolymerization of from about 85 to 95 weight percent ethylene and from 5 to 15 weight percent alpha-olefin.
As used herein, the phrases "inner layer" and "internal layer" refer to any layer, of a multilayer filIr~ having both of its principal surfaces directly ddhered to another layer of the film.
As used herein, the phrase "outer layer" refers to any film layer of film having less than two of its principal surfaces directly adhered to another layer of the film. The phrase is inclusive of monolayer and multilayer films. In multilayer films, there are two outer layers, each of which has a principal surface adhered to only one other layer of the multilayer film. In monolayer films, there is only one layer, which, of course, is an outer layer in that neither of its two plillci~al 30 :jul~aces are adhered to another layer of the film.
As used herein, the phrase "inside layer" refers to the outer layer, of a multilayer film packaging a product, which is closest to the product, relative to the other layers of the multilayer film. "Inside layer" also is used with reference to the innermost layer (which is also an outer layer) of a plurality of concentrically arranged layers extruded through one or more annular dies.

W O 97/03113 PC~r~US96/llS73 As used hel~in, the phrase "outside layeri' refers to the outer layer, of a rnultilayer film packagii3ng a product, which is rulLl.~L from the product relative to the other layers of the multilayer fiLrn. "Oulside layer" also is used with ~ c~ to the ollt~nost layer of a plurality of ~ ul~C~ ally arranp,ed layers extruded through one or more an3nular dies.
As used herein, the phrase "machine direction", herein abbrev3iated "MD", refers to a Liol- "along the length" of the fi~m, i.e., i3n the direction of the film as the 3film is formed during extrusion and/or coating.
As used herein, the phrase "transverse d3rection", herein abbreviated "TD", refers to a direction across the film, perpendicular to the machine direction.
As used hereiim, the phrase "free shrink" refers to the percent dimensional change in a 10 cm x 10 cm specimen of filrn~ when shrunk at 200~F, with the quantitative determination being carried out a.cur~,.,g to ASTM D 2732, as set forth in the 1990 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 08.02, pp.368-371, which is hereby illcollJolAl~d, in its entirety, by reference thereto.
Although the film preferably has a fil~n-to-film coefficient of friction of from about 0.1 to 15 0.9, more preferably the film has a film-to-film coefficient of friction of from about 0.1 to 0.7, still more preferably, from about 0.1-0.6, and yet still more preferably, from about 0.1 to 0.5.
Although the film of the present invention can be either a monolayer film or a multilayer filmt preferably the film is a multilayer film. Preferably, the filnn has a total thickness of less than about 20 mils, more preferably the film has a total thickness of from about 0.2 to 10 mils, still more 20 preferably from about 0.3 to 5 mils, and yet still more preferably, from about 1.5 to 4 mils.
Some of the multilayer films of the present invention are preferably irradiated to induce crosslinking. ln the irradiation process, the film is subjected to an energetic radiation ll~a~
such as corona discharge, plasma, flame, ultraviolet, X-ray, gamma ray, beta ray, and high energy el~llvll Ll~allll~llt, vvhich induce cross-linking between molecules of the irradiated material. The 25 irradiation of polymeric films is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,064,296, to BORNSTEIN, et. al., which is hereby in-:ul~u-dl~d in ib entirety, by reference thereto. BORNSTEIN, et. al. rlic~k~c~c the use of ionizing radiation for crosslinking the polymer present in the film.
To produce crosslinking, a suitable radiation dosage of high energy electrons, preferably using an electron a~:el~.dlor, with a dosage level being determined by standard do:.im~lly 30 methods. Other accelerators such as a Van de Graaf generator or resonating lldn~ro~ l may be used. The radiation is not limited to el~:lluns from an accelerator since any ionizing radiation may be used. The ionizing radiation can be used to crosslink the polymers in the film. Preferably, the film is irradiated at a level of from 2-15 MR, more preferably 2-l0 MR. As can be seen from WO 97/03113 PCT/US96/llS73 the des~ Jlions of y~ led films for use in the present invention, the most p~ d arnount of rA~lWi- n is dependent upon the film cc,~ obilion, thickness, etc., and its end use.
Figure 1 illubll~ s a cross-secffonal view of a ~.e~ d mulfflayer film 20. First layer 21 is an outer film layer which preferably serves as an inside food-contact layer which is irradiated so S that it is grease-~ l .,l Second layer 22 serves as a bulk layer, and is ~ ldbly irra~ ter1 Third layer 23 serves as a to O~. Fourth layer 24 is an outer layer which preferably serves as an outside abuse layer, and which, preferably, is also grease-resistant.
One ~l~..ed embodiment of mulfflayer film 20 has a physical structure, in terms of llUlll~l' of layers, layer thickness, and layer arrangement, and a chemical ~om~obilion in terms of 1 0 the various polymers, etc. present in each of the layers, as set forth in Table I, below. This film is herein debi~-aled "Filrn No. 1", and is an example of a multilayer film a.~ordillg to the present invention.

(Identity of Films of Examples 1-9) Figure 1 Layer Layer Function Layer Chemical Identity Layer Thickness (mils) Designation 24 outside, grease-resistant, 90% EVA; 9~~ 0.35 and abus~lesi~ l ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer; 1 % slip and antiblock inorganic particulates 23 02-barrier PVDC Blend 0.2 22 bulk irradiated EVA 1.21 21 grease-resistance& irradiated EVA 0.54 sealing EVA was ELVAX 3128 (TM) ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer having a vinyl acetate content of 8.9%, a melt index of 2.0, and a density of 0.928 g/cc, obtained from E.l. DuPont de Nemours, of Wilmington, Delaware.
PIVDC Blend was a c~ o~ilion ~:Olll~ lg: (a) about 96 weight percent DOW MA134 (TM) vinylidene chloride/methyl acrylate copolymer having a methyl acrylate content of 8.5%, obtained from The Dow Chemical Company, of Midland, Michigan; (b) about 2 weight percent PLAS CHEK 775 (TM) epoxidized soybean oil, obtained from Ferro Chemicals, of Bedford, Ohio;
and, (c) about 2 weight percent METABLEN L1000 (TM) acrylate blend, obtained from Elf W O 97/03113 PCTrUS96/llS73 Atnrhf~m, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. METABLEN LlaOO (TM) cu~ es about 53 weight percent methyl methacrylate ("MMA"), 29 weight percent butylmethacrylate ~'BMA"), and 19 weight percent butyl acrylate ("BA").
In Table 1 above, filrn layer 24 was forrned by providing an extruder with 90% EVA and 10% of a preblended mixture col~ g the 9% ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer and the 1%
slip and al.LlJI~l~ lic particulates. The ethylene/alpha~lefin copolymer was ESCORENE
LD203.48 (TM) lovv density polyethylene homopolymer, obLA~ ed from Exxon Ch~mi~ls, In~ollJoldLed~ of Bas~town, Texas. The preblend of the ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer and inorganic particulat~s can be compounded using a twin-screw compounder, a Banbury mixer, or any other blending d~lJa~ s as known to those of sk~l in the art.
Film No. 1 vvas produced in accordance with a process schematically illustrated in Figure 2. In the process illustrated in Figure 2, solid polymer beads (not illustrated) are fed to a plurality of extruders 28 (for simplicity, ûnly one extruder is illustrated) Inside extruders 28, the polymer beads are forwardedl, melted, and ~ , following which the resulting bubble-free melt is l 5 forwarded into die head 30, and extruded through an annular die, resulting in tubing 32 which is feLably about 24 Iltlils thick.
After cooling; or quenching by water from cooling ring 34, tubing 32 is collapsed by pinch rolls 36, and is IlleleafL~l fed through irradiation vault 38 surrounded by shielding 40, where tubing 32 is irradiated with high energ,v electrons (i.e., ionizing radiation) from iron core Lld"sru~ . accel.~alol 42. Tubing 32 is guided through irradiation vault 38 on rolls 44.
Preferably, tubing 32 is irradiated to a level of from about 3 to 8 MR.
After irradiai,ion, irradiated tubing 46 is directed through pinch rolls 48, following which irradiated tubing 46 is slightly inflated, resulting in trapped bubble 50. However, at trapped bubble 50, the tubing is not si~ al.lly drawn longitudinally, as the surface speed of nip rolls 52 are about the same speed as nip rolls 48. Furthermore, Irrddlated tubing 46 is inflated only enough to provide a substantially circular tubing without significant transverse o~ LdLion, i.e., without sLlet hi. .g.
Slightly inflated, irradiated tubing 50 is passed through vacuum charnber 54, and l~lèlèafIèl forwarded through coating die 56. Second tubular film 58 is melt extruded from coating die 56 and coated onto slightly inflated, irradiated tube 50, to form two-ply tubular film 60.
Second tubular film 58 preferably co~ es an 0~ barrier layer, which does not pass through the ionizing radiation. Further details of the above-described coating step are generally as set forth in U.S. Patent No. 4,278,738, to BRAX et. al., which is hereby incorporated by reference thereto, in its entirety.

3 PCT/US96/llS73 After irradiation and coating, two-ply tubing film 60 is wound up onto windup roll 62.
Tl.~l~afL~l, windup roll 62 is removed and installed as unwind roll 64, on a second stage in the process of making the tubing film as ultimately desired. Two-ply tubular film 60, from unwind roll 64, is unwound and passed over guide roll 66, after which two-ply tubular film 60 passes into S hot water bath tank 68 cu. . l - i. . i. lg hot water 70. The now collapsed, irra~iA~A, coated tubular film 60 is sul~ lDed in hot water 70 (having a l~ dL~lre of about 185~F) for a retention time of at least about 30 seconds, i.e., for a time period in order to bring the film up to the desired raLul~ for biaxial u~ Ld~io--. Thereafter, irradiated tubular film 60 is directed through nip rolls 72, and bubble 74 is blown, thereby Lldllbv~a~ly stretching tubular film 60. Furthermore, 10 while being blown, i.e., transversely bLl~L l -ed, nip rolls 76 draw tubular film 60 in the longitudinal direction, as nip rolls 76 have a surface speed higher than the surface speed of nip rolls 72. As a result of the transverse Dl-~L~l-illg and longitudinal drawing, irradiated, coated biaxially-oriented blown tubing film 78 is produced, this blown tubing preferably having been both bLIeL l,ed in a ratio of from about 1:1.5 - 1:6, and drawn in a ratio of from about 1:1.5-1:6. More preferably, the lS DLl~L llillg and drawing are each ~lrulllled a ratio of from about 1:2 - 1:4. The result is a biaxial ul;~:llLdLion of from about 1:2.25 - 1:36, more preferably, 1:4 - 1:16. While bubble 74 is maintained between pinch rolls 72 and 76, blown tubing 78 is collapsed by rolls 80, and thereafter conveyed through pinch rolls 76 and across guide roll 82, and then rolled onto wind-up roll 84. Idler roll 86 assures a good wind-up.
A total of 9 films were made in accordance wlth the film of Table 1, using the process as schematically illustrated in Figure 2, as described immediatel~ above. The filrns of Examples 1-9 varied in the content of the inorganic particulate additives, i.e., the film of Control Example No. 1 contained no inorganic particulates in outer layer 24, while Comparative Examples 2~ contained only one type of inorganic particulate (i.e., either spherical or lamellar, but not both) in outer layer 25 24, with working Examples 5-9 containing a mixture of spherical and lamellar inorganic partir~ in outer layer 24. Each of the films of Examples 1-9 was a 4-layer with each layer CC,llsiblil,g of the polymers as set forth in Table 1.

Examplc No. Idcrltity of Addih'~c Stah'c Cocfficicnt of Kinch'c Coc,fficicnt Machin~ility Friction of Friction Scorc (x/15;x--~
1 (Control) None Blocked 1.5 3 2 (G,lll~aldli~re) talc 0.65 0.38 3 3 (Co~l~alcllive) silica 0.35 0.25 6 WO 97/03113 PCT/US96/llS73 4 (C /lll~aldLv~) ;silicate-1 0.38 0.25 10 talc + silica 0.45 0.25 15 6 talc + silica 0.54 0.42 15 7 l~lc + silicat~1 0.41 0.27 13 8 talc+ silica + EA -0.42 0.25 15 9 talc + silicate + 0.37 0.24 15 EA

In each of Examples 1-9, the additives were incorporated into the outside layer of the film tube, and in each case the film structure was as set forth in Table 1 above.
Examples 2 ~l contained 5,000 ppm of each additive. Examples 5-7 contained 2,000 ppm 5talc and 5,000 ppm of the second additive, i.e., silica for Examples 5 and 6, and silicate~1 for Example 7. Examples 8 and 9 couldil-ed 800 ppm erucamidle (EA) in addition to 2,000 ppm talc and 5,000 ppm silica.
The talc used was ABT-2500 CTM) Mg3(Si~Os).[OH]~ or MICROBLOC CTM) Mg~(Si2Os).[OHl3 oblained from Barretts Minerals Inc., of Dillon, Montana.
10The silica used was SYLOBLOC 47 (TM) SiO3 obtained from W.R. Grace & Co. - CONN.
Davison Division.
The silicate-~ used was NaCaAl(Si207), obtained from Mizusawa Industrial Chemicals, sold through International Resources of Columbia, h~laryland.
Machinabilit~r was d~klmil~ed on a bag converting machine ol~ldlillg at a commercial 15speed. Machinability score l~l~S~ a qualitative ass~ llt of ~l~llllance during the feeding of the tubing, sealing of the tubing during conversion to bags, the stacking of the bags, and conveying of the bags. Regarding the feeding of the tubing it is important that the film passes freely through the sealing station without jamrning due to drag force between the filnn and the support (which is usually stainless steel) which is too high, or due to sticking on the seal jaws.
20Bags are "stacked" in a shingled relationship to one another after they are formed by sealing and cutting. These stacked bags need to maintain a relatively straight, aligned relationship, i.e., without bags being shifted sideways, out of alignment along the length of the stream of shingled bags. Regarding the conveying of the bags, it is important to be able to sample the bags without disturbing the straight line It!ldtiun~ J of the shingled bags. If the coefficient of friction between 25the bags is too hi~h, removing one or more bags results in disruption of the straight line W O 97/03113 PCT~US96/llS73 liu~ of the line of shingled bags. For each of these three criteria, a qualitative score of 1-5 is aqq~csed, with 1 l~lul~ Lillg poor ~u~lrullllance and 5 I~ el,Li~.g excellent ~rUIlllance. As can be seen in Table 2, the Machinability score is a total of these three ratings for the p~l~ulllldl~ce of the film of the r~:,pe~ live example.
The coPffi~i~nt of friction (COF) was determined per ASTM D 1894, hereby incol~Joldl~d by l~h,~ e thereto, in its entirety.
The data provided in Table 2~ above, demul~ at~s that films according to the present invention, i.e., the films of Examples 5-9, exhibit a higher Machinability score than the films of Coll,paldliv~ Examples 14.
Thus, Table 2 provides evidence that films according to the present invention provide improved ~lÇo~ ance in the area of Machinability, which is believed to be related to the combination of slip and antiblock chara~ derived from the combination of lamellar and spl.el;cal particulates present in the outside film layer. The comparative films of Examples 1-4 were substantially identical except that they had, with respect to the presence of inorganic 15 parh~ tPR in the outer layer and on the outer surface of the film: (a) no particulates, (b) only spherical particulates, or (c) only lamellar particulates.
The results set forth in Table 2 demonstrate that without loose dust on the outside surface of the film, the combination of spherical and lamellar particulates in the outer layer and on the outer surface of the film provides the film with slip and antiblock ~ ro~l lies which are improved 20 over no particulates in the outer layer and on the outer surface; the presence of spherical particulates on the outer surface, without lamellar particulates; and the presence of lamellar particulates on the outer surface, without spherical particulates.
Other ~ d mulhlayer films which could have the mixture of inorganic particulates on one or more outer layers are set forth in copending application U.S.S.N. (42383), to 25 Babrowicz which is hereby incorporated by reference thereto, in its entirety.Although the present invention has been described in connection with the lur~lled embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and variations may be utilized without departing from the principles and scope of the invention, as those skilled in the art will readily understand. Accordingly, such modificahons may be practiced within the scope of the following 30 clairns.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A film comprising a composition comprising a mixture comprising:
(A) inorganic substantially spherical particulates having an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 microns; and (B) inorganic substantially lamellar particulates having an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 to 40:1, and a major dimension of from about 0.1 to 15 microns;
wherein the substantially spherical particulates and the substantially lamellar particulates are present in an outer film layer and on an outer surface of the film.

2. The film according to claim 1, wherein the substantially lamellar particulates have a hardness of from about 1 to 7, on a Mohs hardness scale.

3. The film according to claim 2 wherein the hardness of the substantially lamellar particulates is from about 1 to 5, on the Mohs hardness scale.

4. The film according to claim 3, wherein the hardness of the substantially lamellar particulates is from about 1 to 3, on the Mohs hardness scale.

5. The film according to claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises a slip enhancer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of fatty acid amide, oxidized polyethylene, fatty acid ester, and fatty acid alcohol.

6. The film according to claim 5, wherein the slip enhancer is present in the outer film layer in an amount of from about 50 to 10,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer layer.

7. The film according to claim 5, wherein the slip enhancer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of erucamide, oleamide, stearamide, behenamide, oxidized polyethylene wax, glycerol monostearate, metallic stearate.

8. The film according to claim 5, wherein the composition further comprises a printability enhancer, wherein the printability enhancer comprises a polar polymer.

9. The film according to claim 8, wherein the polar polymer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/ester/maleic anhydride terpolymer, ethylene/ester/glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer, and ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer.

10. The film according to claim 8, wherein the printability enhancer is present in the outer film layer in an amount of from about 1 to 25 percent, based on the weight of the outer film layer.

11. The film according to claim 1, wherein:
the substantially spherical particulates are present in the outer layer of the film at a concentration of from about 500-50,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer film layer; and the substantially lamellar particulates are present in the outer layer of the film at a concentration of from about 500 to 50,000 parts per million, based on the weight of the outer film layer.

12. The film according to claim 1, wherein:
the substantially spherical particulates comprise at least one member selected the group consisting of silica and silicate; and the substantially lamellar particulates comprise silicate.

13. The film according to claim 12, wherein:
the substantially spherical particulates comprise at least one member selected the group consisting of natural silica, synthetic silica, and silicate; and the substantially lamellar particulates comprise at least one member selected the group consisting of magnesium silicate and hydrated aluminum silicate.

14. The film according to claim 13, wherein:
the substantially spherical particulates comprise at least one member selected the group consisting of diatomaceous earth, fumed synthetic silica, precipitated synthetic silica, gelled synthetic silica, sodium calcium silicate, and sodium calcium aluminum silicate; and the substantially lamellar particulates comprise at least one member selected from the group consisting of talc and kaolin.

15. The film according to claim 1, wherein the film is a multilayer film comprising two outer layers, and wherein the composition is present in at least one of the outer layers.

16. The multilayer film according to claim 15, wherein the multilayer film comprises an O2-barrier layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, and polyester.

17. The film according to claim 15, wherein the multilayer film comprises:
an outer first layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide;
an inner second layer, the second layer being an O2-barrier layer, the second layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, and polyester; and an outer third layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide.

18. The film according to claim 17, further comprising a fourth layer between the first layer and the second layer, the fourth layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and polyamide.

19. The film according to claim 18, wherein the first layer and the fourth layer each comprise crosslinked polymer, and wherein the second layer and the third layer do not comprise crosslinked polymer.

20. The film according to claim 18, wherein the multilayer film further comprises:
a fifth layer, the fifth layer being a first tie layer, the fifth layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer,ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer; and a sixth layer, the sixth layer being a second tie layer, the sixth layer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride-modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer; and wherein the fifth layer is between the fourth layer and the second layer, the sixth layer is between the second layer and the third layer, and all layers of the multilayer film comprise crosslinked polymer.

21. The film according to claim 17, further comprising an inner fourth layer, the fourth layer being a tie layer, the fourth layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

22. The film according to claim 21, wherein:
the fourth layer is between the first layer and the second layer; and the film further comprises an inner fifth layer, the fifth layer being a second tie layer, the fifth layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of ethylene/carboxylic acid copolymer, ethylene/ester copolymer, and anhydride modified ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, the fifth layer being between the second layer and the third layer.

23. The film according to claim 15, wherein the multilayer film is substantiallysymmetrical with respect to both layer thickness and layer chemical composition.

24. The film according to claim 1, wherein the film is has a total free shrink, at 185°F, of from about 10 to 100 percent.

25. The film according to claim 1, wherein the film comprises crosslinked polymer.

26. The film according to claim 1, wherein the film is a monolayer film.

27. The film according to claim 1, wherein the film is biaxially oriented and heat-shrinkable.

28. A film tube comprising a film comprising a composition comprising a mixture comprising:
(A) inorganic substantially spherical particulates having an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 microns; and (B) inorganic substantially lamellar particulates having an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 TO 40:1, and a major dimension of from about 0.1 TO 15 microns;
wherein the substantially spherical particulates and the substantially lamellar particulates are present in an outside film layer and on the outside surface of the film.

29. The film tube according to claim 28, wherein the tube further comprises an inside surface having dust thereon, and wherein the outside surface of the film is substantially dust-free.

30. The film tube according to claim 29, wherein the dust comprises at least onemember selected from the group consisting of aluminum silica, silicon dioxide, sodium calcium alumino silicate, magnesium silicate, and calcium silicate.

31. The film tube according to claim 30, wherein the dust comprises at least onemember selected from the group consisting of corn starch, potato starch, talc, and silica.

32. A bag comprising a film comprising a film comprising a composition comprising a mixture comprising:
(A) inorganic substantially spherical particulates having an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 microns; and (B) inorganic substantially lamellar particulates having an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 to 40:1, and a major dimension of from about 0.1 to 15 microns;
wherein the substantially spherical particulates and the substantially lamellar particulates are present in an outside film layer and on the outside surface of the film.

33. A composition comprising:
(A) a thermoplastic polymer;
(B) inorganic substantially spherical particulates having an average particle size of from about 0.1 to 30 microns; and (C) inorganic substantially lamellar particulates having an average aspect ratio of from about 5:1 to 40:1, and a major dimension of from about 0.1 to 15 microns.

34. The composition according to claim 33, wherein the polymer comprises ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

35. The composition according to claim 33, wherein:
the polymer is present in an amount of from about 70 to 99.9 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition; and the inorganic particulates are present in an amount of from about 0.1 to 30 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition.

36. The composition according to claim 35, wherein:
the polymer is present in an amount of from about 85 to 95 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition; and the inorganic particulates are present in an amount of from about 5 to 15 weightpercent, based on the weight of the composition.

37. The composition according to claim 35, wherein:
the polymer is present in an amount of from about 95 to 99.9 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition; and the inorganic particulates are present in an amount of from about 0.1 to 5 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition.

38. The composition according to claim 37, wherein:
the polymer is present in an amount of from about 98.5 to 99.5 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition; and the inorganic particulates are present in an amount of from about 0.5 to 1.5 weight percent, based on the weight of the composition.