Choosing between closely related resin grades often complicates material procurement for flexible packaging and film extrusion operations. SABIC’s 118 series of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) represents a global industry benchmark for blown film quality and processability. However, converters, R&D engineers, and procurement managers frequently question whether SABIC LLDPE 118NJA and SABIC LLDPE 118NE are fully interchangeable.
Physical specifications for these two resins appear identical on paper. The critical divergence lies in their antioxidant stabilization packages and target regional regulatory compliances. Clarifying these technical differences allows manufacturing facilities to optimize material selection, guarantee food-contact compliance, and control overall raw material costs.
Looking for a broader overview of SABIC's polyethylene portfolio?
Discover our comprehensive Ultimate Selection Guide to SABIC PE Grades to compare LLDPE, LDPE, and HDPE options for your manufacturing lines.
Technical Specifications: The Identical Baselines
Physical and mechanical performance baselines remain identical for both grades. Both 118NJA and 118NE are butane-copolymer (C₄) LLDPE resins manufactured via gas-phase reaction technology. They deliver identical melt drawability, tensile strength, and puncture resistance during extrusion.
| Technical Parameter | SABIC LLDPE 118NJA | SABIC LLDPE 118NE | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resin Type | Butane LLDPE (C₄) | Butane LLDPE (C₄) | — |
| Melt Flow Rate (MFR) | 1.0 g/10 min | 1.0 g/10 min | ASTM D1238 (190°C/2.16 kg) |
| Density | 0.918 g/cm³ | 0.918 g/cm³ | ASTM D1505 |
| Dart Impact Strength | 110 g | 110 g | ASTM D1709 |
| Film Tensile Strength (MD/TD) | 40 / 32 MPa | 40 / 32 MPa | ASTM D882 |
Need Batch-Specific Documentation?
Get instant access to TDS, COA, and Food-Grade Compliance certificates for both 118 series grades.
Request Technical Samples & QuotesShared Processing Advantage
Neither grade contains slip or antiblock additives. This clean polymer matrix ensures maximum melt strength and excellent bubble stability on blown film lines.
- Maximum melt strength
- Prevents lamination peeling
- Guarantees high seal integrity
Pure Formulation
No Migrating Additives
The Regulatory Divergence: Antioxidant Packages
118NJA: TNPP-Free
Engineered using a modern, Tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite-free secondary antioxidant package.
118NE: Traditional
Utilizes a traditional, highly efficient stabilization package complying with standard food-contact regulations.
Application Guide: How to Select
Exporting to US/Canada?
Strict Food/Medical Mandates
Regional Distribution?
Standard Industrial/Lamination
Why Choose 118NJA?
- Export-Oriented Packaging: Films destined for US/Canada or multinational brands with chemical-free mandates.
- Sensitive Hygiene: High-purity medical packaging, infant food liners, or personal care products.
Why Choose 118NE?
- Standard Conversion: Blown lamination webs, FFS shipping bags, or agricultural stretch liners.
- Optimized Costing: High-volume sourcing where TNPP-free certificates are not required.
Sourcing SABIC PE: Why Partner with Us?
Genuine Packaging
Original unadulterated resins with batch-specific COAs and TDS.
Shanghai Logistics
Jiaxing hub allows rapid customs clearing and international loading.
Flexible Volume
FCL, mixed-grade containers, or trial batches for development.
Technical Consultation
Optimizing equipment parameters and matched cross-referencing.
