NOVA Chemicals Introduces Polyethylene Grades Incorporating Next-Generation Non-Fluorinated Polymer Processing Aid

PE grades with new non-fluorinated PPA support international regulatory compliance while maintaining proven performance

CALGARY, AB, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - NOVA Chemicals Corporation ("NOVA Chemicals") today announced the launch of polyethylene (PE) resins that incorporate next-generation non-fluorinated polymer processing aid (NF-PPA). The SURPASS®, SCLAIR®, and NOVAPOL® PE resins with new NF-PPA deliver comparable performance to legacy fluoropolymer PPA technology, helping manufacturers meet global regulatory compliance standards with minimal disruptions in production.

NOVA Chemicals was one of the first global PE producers to introduce PE grades with fluoropolymer-free PPA in 2022. Working closely with film manufacturers over the last three years, ongoing research led to the new NF-PPA formulation which provides enhanced process stability for consistent performance, including frost line control, reduced die-lip build-up, and predictable slip and coefficient of friction properties. It also delivers melt fracture clearing and film optics comparable to fluoropolymer-based PPA technologies. This next-generation product helps converters and brand owners adapt to evolving legislation that eliminates the use of fluoropolymers, such as the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation in the E.U.

"Our next-generation NF-PPA underscores NOVA Chemicals' focus on solving critical challenges for our customers through continuous innovation," said Owen Lightbody, Leader, Technical Services at NOVA Chemicals. "By anticipating change and proactively developing new solutions, we are streamlining operations for converters and brand owners navigating this important transition."

PPAs are used to mitigate melt fracture and to prevent material buildup on die-lips during extrusion processes. The next-generation PPA is compatible with existing resin formulations, enabling the production of high-quality film structures that are free from fluoropolymers. NOVA Chemicals has obtained broad regulatory approvals for the NF-PPA resin technology in North America, Latin America, the EU, and China, with additional global approvals underway as legislation evolves.

"We are committed to advancing new technologies and supporting our partners as the industry adapts," continued Lightbody. "Our breakthrough NF-PPA sets a new standard for high-performance, fluoropolymer-free PE that will allow our customers to meet market demands."

Nine grades of PE, including FP120-D, FP120-C, SPs116-C, SPs116-D, VPsK914-C, VPsK914-D, and PF-Y821-BP, are currently available with next-generation NF-PPA for use across various blown film applications including food packaging, e-commerce, and heavy-duty sacks.

Learn more about the next-generation NF-PPA here.  

About NOVA Chemicals

At NOVA Chemicals, we are reshaping the way plastics are designed, made, and recycled to be our customers' first and best choice. We accelerate the development of high-quality and reliable polyethylene solutions by designing resins that exceed the demands of our customers and consumers, investing in leading-edge mechanical recycling and feedstock infrastructure, and collaborating across the value chain to advance a circular economy. Our globally advantaged assets, strong partnerships, and digitalized operations consistently improve industry standards for the next generation of plastics by driving innovation, enhancing customer experience, and achieving operational excellence.

Our diverse portfolio of polyethylene and recycled polyethylene enables the creation of monomaterial products and packaging that are suitable for a broad range of circular applications. Learn more about our markets and applications.

Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, NOVA Chemicals is wholly owned by Mubadala Investment Company of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and employs 2,600 worldwide. Learn more at www.novachem.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

NOVA Chemicals is a proud Responsible Care^® company.

The NOVA Chemicals logo is a registered trademark of NOVA Brands Ltd.; authorized use.
Responsible Care is a registered trademark of the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada. SURPASS® is a registered trademark of NOVA Chemicals Corporation in Canada and of NOVA Chemicals (International) S.A. elsewhere; authorized use/utilisation autorisée. SCLAIR® is a registered trademark of NOVA Chemicals Corporation in Canada and of NOVA Chemicals (International) S.A. elsewhere; authorized use/utilisation autorisée. NOVAPOL® is a registered trademark of NOVA Brands Ltd.; authorized use/utilisation autorisée.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements require NOVA Chemicals to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. NOVA Chemicals' forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. In addition, the forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this news release, and except as required by applicable law, NOVA Chemicals undertakes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise.

SOURCE NOVA Chemicals Corporation