LIMEX-Low Impact Material for Earth
Country: Japan
Category: Packaging Materials and Components
LIMEX is a groundbreaking inorganic filler composite material designed as a sustainable alternative to both plastic and paper. As a substitute for plastics, LIMEX contributes to significant reductions in petroleum-based plastic usage and greenhouse gas emissions. As an alternative to traditional paper, it conserves essential resources by reducing the need for trees and water. LIMEX is available in pellet form, allowing it to be seamlessly processed with conventional facilities for blown film molding, extrusion molding, blow bottle molding, injection molding, thermoforming, and spunbond molding—no specialized equipment required.
LIMEX is primarily composed of limestone, which supports sustainability through three essential factors. First, limestone is abundant worldwide, enabling LIMEX to be produced consistently and with minimal environmental impact on a global scale. Second, LIMEX exhibits superior carbon efficiency; its CO2 emissions throughout its lifecycle are significantly lower than those of petroleum-based plastics. Third, limestone is cost-effective and price-stable, making LIMEX an economically viable as well as environmentally friendly material.
More than 10,000 companies worldwide have adopted LIMEX to enhance their sustainability initiatives, and it has been officially recognized by UNIDO’s Sustainable Technology Promotion Platform (STePP) as a distinguished Japanese technology. Additionally, LIMEX continues to evolve with the development of CR LIMEX (Carbon Recycled LIMEX), our next-generation material. CR LIMEX uses Carbon Capture Utilization (CCU) technology to recover CO2 and industrial byproducts, which are then scientifically refined into calcium carbonate and incorporated into LIMEX. This cutting-edge innovation embodies the future of sustainable materials. CR LIMEX has already been used to create business cards and planters, which were showcased at this year’s Davos conference.
At TBM, we are committed to advancing LIMEX technology to drive a more sustainable future, positioning ourselves as leaders in the field of sustainability.
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LIMEX Application Examples
1. LimeAir Bags:
LIMEX is widely used in bag applications, such as shopping bags and garbage bags. The brand name called LimeAir bag. Compared to 100% HDPE bags, LimeAir bags are 10% lighter, reduce plastic usage by 34%, and cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 29%. Additionally, LimeAir bags are more cost-effective than conventional alternatives. By choosing LIMEX for shopping and garbage bags, retailers can offer a more sustainable and budget-friendly solution. Major Japanese and international retailers, including Daiso in Japan and Big C in Thailand, have adopted these bags.
2. Flexible Packaging:
LIMEX is now used in flexible packaging applications, especially for laminated pouches. It is compatible with sealant films like LLDPE and CPP and can be incorporated into extrusion lamination layers. For LLDPE, we have developed our proprietary LS Film, widely used in food packaging. A notable example is Ishii Food, which uses LS Film in its ready-to-eat hamburger pouches with vegetable sauce. LIMEX’s economical pricing contributes to cost reduction, while the easy-tear functionality enhances user-friendliness, aligning with universal design principles. LIMEX also complies with food contact regulations, making it safe for packaging in food applications. One prominent snack manufacturer now uses LIMEX in its potato chip packaging, benefiting from both environmental and economic advantages.
3. Cosmetic Packaging:
LIMEX enables a 46% reduction in plastic usage and a 36% decrease in CO2 emissions in cosmetic packaging. Its unique limestone texture adds a smooth, luxurious feel. For instance, the LVMH group’s Kendo brand utilizes LIMEX in concealer stick packaging, replacing ABS to achieve both sustainability goals and cost savings.
4. Bottles and Jerry Cans:
LIMEX can also be used in blow-molded bottles and jerry cans, helping reduce plastic usage by 28% and GHG emissions by 10%. The natural white hue of limestone minimizes the need for titanium dioxide, leading to further cost savings as LIMEX is more affordable than white masterbatch. LIMEX also enhances bottle rigidity, allowing for thinner walls (down-gauging) without compromising strength. In India, LIMEX bottles are used for personal care items, showcasing LIMEX’s versatility in various international markets.
5. LIMEX Labels:
LIMEX sheets are well-suited for label applications, with excellent color fidelity and environmental benefits. They can also be used for in-mold labels. A major Japanese home care company has adopted LIMEX for its bottle and in-mold label applications, recognizing both the sustainability and high-quality appearance that LIMEX provides.
6. Other Applications:
In addition, adoption cases for LIMEX are increasing in applications such as vacuum-formed trays, non-woven fabric bags, and paper box alternatives, where both cost savings and environmental performance are highly valued.
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