CNG’s latest heat-resistant, high-barrier, and matte MDO-PE films deliver enhanced functionality for demanding recycle-ready packaging applications.
CHICAGO, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Charter Next Generation (CNG), a leading provider of specialty films and material science solutions, today launched its next generation of machine-direction-oriented polyethylene (MDO-PE) solutions. A cornerstone of CNG’s recycle-ready1 platform, the expanded MDO-PE lineup introduces a range of materials with enhanced functionality, including improved heat resistance, high-barrier performance, and matte-finish aesthetics.
“CNG invested early in MDO-PE capabilities and, over the past five years, has built one of North America’s most comprehensive portfolios,” said James Rosenberger, Product Manager, Sustainable Solutions at CNG. “Our focus is on giving customers the functionality they need to convert efficiently, protect their products, and differentiate on shelf, backed by a modern manufacturing footprint designed to provide supply chain redundancy.”
Enhanced Heat Resistance for High-Speed Converting
CNG’s new higher heat-resistance MDO-PE solutions address a critical challenge brands and converters face when moving to mono-material PE solutions: maintaining reliable high-speed converting and filling on legacy equipment. Through its material science expertise and MDO capabilities, CNG increased heat resistance in its latest film structures to expand the heat seal window by 50%, creating a wider, more forgiving operating window. The expanded heat seal window also supports easier conversion to Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR)-compliant, recycle-ready formats, which may qualify for lower fees than mixed-material structures under initial EPR fee frameworks and help support film recycling targets set by various state regulations. The new heat-resistant film will be on display during live demonstrations at the Totani America, Inc. booth (LU-7918) at PACK EXPO International 2026 in Chicago from October 18-21, 2026.
High Barrier Protection in Recycle-Ready PE Structures
CNG’s new high-barrier MDO-PE films leverage orientation technology to deliver oxygen barrier performance in thin-gauge structures, achieving barrier values previously unattainable with earlier solutions. The films provide an excellent alternative to mixed-material laminations for applications where barrier performance is critical to maintaining product freshness and extending shelf life.
Matte Finish for Premium Shelf Appeal, Built into the Film
As demand for premium and better-for-you products grows, matte-finish materials have become increasingly popular. Today, in mono-PE formats, most converters apply a varnish to achieve a matte aesthetic, adding additional steps and longer production time. CNG’s new matte-finish MDO-PE print film leverages our material science expertise to build the matte finish directly into the film during extrusion without requiring secondary processes. The result is a film that combines premium shelf appeal with the performance advantages of a PE-based structure designed for recyclability2.
“The objective behind our new line of MDO-PE films is to respond directly to growing market demand for higher-performing recycle-ready solutions while leveraging the momentum created by extended producer responsibility (EPR) policy, which is reshaping the packaging materials landscape,” said Joe Glaser, Manager, Sustainability & Regulatory at CNG. “These new solutions, combined with CNG’s material science capabilities and deep regulatory expertise, give brands more options to potentially reduce EPR fees.”
Those attending PACK EXPO International 2026 are invited to meet the product team, view samples of the latest innovations, and explore CNG’s broader portfolio of material science solutions at booth N-4948. For more information or to schedule a one-on-one meeting with an MDO product specialist, contact media@cnginc.com.
1 ‘Recycle-ready’ indicates design for recyclability against current technical guidelines (e.g., APR/CEFLEX). It does not represent recycling availability in all communities or actual recycling rates. Final recyclability depends on the complete package structure, local program acceptance, and consumer behavior.
2 All Gen 2 MDO-PE films are designed with applicable Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) guidance in mind and to support How2Recycle® Store Drop-off eligibility in qualifying package structures. Final package recyclability and How2Recycle label eligibility depend on the complete package design, including components, inks, adhesives, barriers, product application, processing, and applicable testing or assessment. Store Drop-off collection is available only at participating locations.
About Charter Next Generation
Charter Next Generation (CNG) is a recognized leader in material science solutions in North America, delivering high-performance specialty films and advanced materials for flexible packaging and other critical applications across the food, consumer goods, industrial, and healthcare markets. With 18 facilities across the U.S. and more than 2,600 employee-owners, we bring together manufacturing excellence and innovation to help address global challenges—from reducing waste and preserving food to advancing equity and promoting climate resilience. As a company with broad-based employee ownership and a proud partner of Ownership Works™, we’re committed to creating long-term, sustainable value through shared success. Visit cnginc.com, follow us on LinkedIn, or contact media@cnginc.com.
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SOURCE Charter Next Generation, Inc.
