Labelexpo Europe 2023 – materials

Eco-consciousness dominated the Labelexpo Europe 2023 show floor in materials segment in light of fast-approaching circular economy legislation in different parts of the world.

A central theme across exhibitor stands was the incorporation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content into label materials, with some manufacturers presenting materials made entirely of recycled content to enable circular economy.

A second trend that was apparent at the show was exploring fossil fuel alternatives in the production of labelstock. With the ongoing global emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and embracing cleaner energy sources, manufacturers were keen to introduce label materials that are not dependent on fossil fuels.

Patricia Rodrigo, international key account manager, release liner, Mondi, says: ‘Mondi takes sustainability very seriously. Our map says that by 2025 all of our products will be recyclable, reusable or compostable. More customers are demanding recycled content liners and liners that are easy to recycle. There is also a trend of reducing product in the final application and reducing emissions.’

She continues: ‘Many of the products that are sold in the market are made of virgin fibers and polymers. And there are collection streams but not so many. We use recycled content as much as we can. We are also using alternate coatings that are not silicone. If it is silicone, then it comes from renewable resources. And polymers also come from renewable sources.’

Elodie Picard, global marketing and strategy director of tapes and labels/pressure sensitive adhesives, Henkel sums up the trend: ‘Sustainability is a mega trend and everyone is trying to figure out how to provide sustainability in the label industry. That means we need to work together from materials and adhesives to inks suppliers – the whole industry – to achieve this goal.’

RECYCLABLE AND PCR CONTENT MATERIALS

Italstick presented papers made from 100 percent post-consumer paper waste; grass papers, made of up to 40 percent grass fibers without coloring agents; and RippedBrown kraft, natural, unbleached, uncoated paper. It also offered phthalate-free PVC and a wide range of plastic films for offset and digital printing, all made with water-based acrylic adhesives.

Ahlstrom showcased Acti-V RF glassine release paper with over 15 percent PCR cellulose fiber and comes in light yellow color for release liners. Acti-V RF Natural glassine release paper in a natural kraft color, crafted from at least 15 percent post-consumer recycled cellulose fiber and unbleached cellulose fibers. The company also offered Acti-V Industrial RF Natural, a custom double-sided silicone-coated paper for double-sided PSA tapes.

Klöckner Pentaplast introduced SmartCycle Pro heat shrink sleeve film that is recyclable in the RIC1 stream and made from 30 percent certified PCR material.

Polyart Group launched r-Polyart synthetic paper made of 30 percent PCR material, and Fiberskin weather-resistant paper that’s recyclable, biodegradable and printable by dry toner, for short-term outdoor exposure, outdoor tags, labels and signage. The company also introduced Polyart Laser Food, a food-compliant synthetic paper for dry toner printing.

Synthogra introduced its new film, SYN-BOPP transparent
HB top coated 70 percent REC UCO, made with 70 percent used cooking oil. The product is produced from bio-based feedstock.

Herma unveiled an eco-conscious labelstock with three key
components: grade 856 rPE PCR white film, a zero carbon footprint adhesive (72F), and an efficient resource-saving paper backing material. The rPE PCR white (grade 856) label material is crafted solely from PCR plastic. Adhesive 72F, a joint venture of Herma and BASF, boasts zero carbon footprint and excellent adhesion properties. The paper backing minimizes resource consumption.

Toyobo offered Crisper and Kamishine white PET films for label applications with up to 25 percent PCR content.

Aluminium Féron showed new Monotex tag materials such as PE films with PCR, as well as recyclable PO films for laser printing. A tear-resistant Tritex product with 100 percent recycled paper and 90 percent PCR core was also introduced.

VPF’s stand featured its range of 12 sustainable paper based face materials including exclusive hemp and grass paper, sustainable film based face materials, rPET liner with 90 percent PCR content, liner with 70 percent recycled content. A new VPFine range of thinner and lighter materials was also introduced. 

Lecta presented its new ‘Recy’ papers, made from recycled fibers. One notable new feature was its Adestor Collect&Recycle service for the collection and recycling of glassine paper. The company also showed sustainable label materials for wine labeling, two laminates certified for waste paper recycling, a new comprehensive laminate film program with UV stable and scratch-resistant variants and soft touch. It also showed wash-off adhesives 602 (for
papers) and HM725UV (for films) for recycling processes.

Henan Yinjinda New Materials introduced YMR206H(c)
crystallizable shrink film. The film is 100 percent recyclable with PET bottles. Another new product shown was YMR206H(r)-50 rigid PETG shrink film for shrink sleeve labels. The film contains 50 percent PCR materials

Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives introduced the RE-Play material
range, utilizing a closed-loop recycling system with recovered and recycled siliconized backing for luxury label face stocks. It launched Manter, a premium self-adhesive neck label range for wine and spirits. The company also unveiled premium wash-off labels for wine and spirits, for ice immersion and easy removal in alkaline solutions at 80 degrees C. Luxury labeling products included 100 percent recycled papers, alternative fiber papers, and pharma‑specific products for small containers, syringes, ampoules, and more.

Mondi showed release liners with recycled content fibers and polymers. It also promoted the use of silicones from renewable resources. Polymers that come from renewable resources and are fossil free were also a highlight.

Lintec Europe launched MMP Mono Material Polyester (PET) labelstock designed for single-use PET containers. Both film and adhesive are manufactured from polyester, reducing the risk of contamination if the labels are not removed before the washing and grinding process. The adhesive contains 40 percent bio-mass content. A special top coating also enables the labels to be de-inked in an alkaline washing process. The product won Label Industry Global Award for innovation.

Taghleef Industries presented biobased PP films and reLife films manufactured with PCR content and unveiled Shape360 TDS, a floatable shrink sleeve label film.

Leonardus launched certified recyclable plastic-free holographic 70gsm metalized paper that delivers the same performance as traditional holographic film.

UPM Raflatac introduced materials and services for labels that enable reduction, recycling, renewal and reuse. Highlights included the Ocean Action Labels, made from ocean-bound plastic waste, and the PureCycle paper wash-off labels that cleanly separate from primary packaging in PET and HDPE recycling streams. The RAFNXT+ paper label material range is certified as carbon neutral, and the company’s linerless label materials provide a way to
reduce waste.

Breit-Technologies displayed eco-friendly cast and cure
embellishing films. PP Cast and Cure films, with a width up to 1,016mm, are reusable multiple times and fully recyclable. Films are available in several patterns for holographic or textured effects, matte soft touch and extra clear. It includes anti-scuff and anticounterfeiting applications.

LINERLESS LABELS

Another shift in the label industry is the pursuit of waste reduction, particularly focusing on the elimination of liners from labels. This effort has given rise to the trend of linerless labels. In conventional label production, the liner serves as a temporary carrier for labels but is subsequently discarded after a single use, resulting in volumes of waste. Linerless labels present a promising solution. By removing the need for liners, they hold the potential to drastically
reduce waste in label manufacturing.

Exhibitors such as Avery Dennison displayed new linerless
products. The company introduced a new lineup of VI and
decorative linerless labels. It showcased the ADLinrSave linerless system for prime labels, a collaboration with Bobst to develop an inline silicone coating head and Harland Machine which developed the applicator. ADLinrConvert decorative linerless products use patented micro-perforation technology. AD XeroLiner DT measures environmental impact using Avery Dennison carbon trust tools. Avery Dennison emphasized sustainability and digital integration
through RFID and atma.io technology, offering data-driven insights and traceability. Its AD RDX portfolio featured wash-off and removable products for recyclable and refillable packaging in PET and colored HDPE packaging with label products like AD CleanFlake S7000ER.

Steve Flannery, senior vice president and general manager
of Materials Group EMENA, says: ‘At Avery Dennison, we put sustainability at the core of everything we do and envision a connected and circular future. Labelexpo is a great opportunity for us to showcase our new solutions and also engage with our partners and customers on the key issues that will shape the future of our industry over the next few years such as Digital Product Passports and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.’

Sihl presented materials for water-based on-demand inkjet
printing, including films with up to 90 percent recycled content. The company also focused on pre-made stand-up pouches and tear-resistant, hang and linerless tags. Many of its products are FSC-certified and recyclable. The company also showed PressureTAC, linerless tags for logistic applications.

Cosmo Films introduced PET G high shrink films for cosmetics, personal care, dairy food, beverages and pharma packaging. Another new product was direct thermal printable films and Top Coated On Metallized Side Scratch Resistant Film. Apart from these the company showed range of packaging and label films.

Pankaj Poddar, group CEO, Cosmo First, says: ‘The show has been really successful for us. We have met lots of customers and have supplier meetings and material provider meetings as well. It is the place to come and be if you want to meet people working in the industry. Platforms like Labelexpo Europe 2023, open a plethora of opportunities for businesses across the globe to foster new
collaborations and partnerships, exchange industry knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of our customer’s requirements.

‘Cosmo First had a successful presence at the expo engaging with customers, industry leaders, and visitors who can open the door to new collaborations and partnerships, while also allowing businesses to gain valuable insights into customer requirements. It gave us an opportunity to meet and interact with the customers and industry leaders of the region and widen our clientele. This accentuates our commitment to delivering innovative, industry-first, and
environmentally conscious solutions to our esteemed clientele.’

COMPOSTABLE MATERIALS

Complementing this eco-friendly drive were advancements in compostable materials.

Bio4Life showcased its certified compostable materials for fruit labels. The face materials are made from renewable resources and are coated with the BioTAK compostable adhesive. The product range includes paper from agricultural waste, FSC and PEFC certified paper and a variety of bioplastics.

Premier Coating & Converters displayed its Premeco
biomass-based and PCR content films. These materials are
biodegradable or compostable.

Gulf Pack launched biodegradable BOPP label film that
biodegrades in two years after it is discarded. Sanjay Choudhary, director of sales and marketing, Gulf pack, says: ‘There are parts of the world where the waste collection system is not very strong. This product will start biodegrading in open air. It just needs sunlight and oxygen to biodegrade.’

Speaking of Labelexpo Europe Choudhary says: ‘It is a good show. We got very unexpected results. Of course, we expect to see customers from Europe who are certainly here, but we did not expect customers from Latin America and Southeast Asia to be at the show and they are interested in our products. We are strategically located in Saudi Arabia where we have competitive advantage to service customers in the MEA region. We have had
lots of enquiries from customers from Africa and people also visited us from Angola and Congo.’

THINNER AND LIGHTER MATERIALS

Exhibitors were also discussing lighter, thinner materials to reduce the ecological footprint of labels.

Ricardo Lobo, CEO of Beontag says: ‘We are seeing sustainability as a trend coming through in different ways ensuring local sourcing, shorter supply chains. We are also seeing willingness to work with thinner materials and recycled content. Everyone is in search of something that is not just sustainable but also economical which is a key trend going forward and a key focus for our company.
‘It is a real privilege for us and an honor to be with our clients here at Labelexpo Europe. This is the first time we have a big stand. We are very happy to be in Brussels and being a part of Labelexpo yet again.’

Busitel showed new resin ribbon P314. Based on a 4-micron PET film, P314 allows up to 12 percent plastic reduction for each roll.

delfort showed its Tersil UltraLightBase glassine for self-adhesive applications, claimed up to 40 percent lighter than current market alternatives.

Jindal SMI introduced Polyolefin base Conformable PP that
delivers conformability and flexibility. Available in both clear and white finish, it is 40 percent thinner compared to usual PE films.Another new product was PCR PP made with mechanical recycling technology with the same properties as standard PP films. PCR PP with 30 percent post-consumer recycled content is available in both clear and white finish.

Akash Goyal, regional business lead – Americas, SMI Coated Products, said: ‘For us, Labelexpo Europe 2023 was a brilliant occasion to reconnect with our esteemed partners and customers. We had a busy four days.

‘Among the key trends at the show we saw an active urgency and interest across geographies scouting for sustainable solutions as it was a part of many conversations. We also gauge this by the amazing response we got for our sustainability portfolio with PCR
and down-gauged PP filmic facestocks. We saw a general concern over unpredictable supply chain, especially from some key players in the industry. Overall, the outlook was still bullish from many customers in spite of some headwinds that hit the region.’

Innovia Films presented Rayoface CPE45 and WPE45, clear and white-label facestock films intended to replace PE and MDO films in health and personal care applications. These films are claimed to be thinner than alternative facestock films. The company also showcased Rayofloat APO and APO-HS (high shrink), floatable polyolefin shrink sleeve films designed to improve the purity of recycled PET bottles. Kurz presented a new service to produce thermal transfer ribbons not only in standard black but to customer-specific special colors and security solutions. The company has reduced its transfer carrier thickness from 12 microns to 6 microns for cold foil applications. Kurz also discussed
its Recosys program. It collects customers’ embossed PET carrier material.

Durico showed new direct thermal films that are phenol-free and heat stable, as well as films resistant to solvent, alcohol, hot water and tallow. Durico also displayed translucent direct thermal films and durable inkjet PP films that comply with BS5609 and GHS.

Univacco showcased its ultra-thin transfer foils, which provide decorative embellishments for labels.

BRAND PROTECTION TECHNOLOGIES

The global issue of counterfeiting was also addressed at the show. Exhibitors showcased the latest in temper-evident labels and RFID technology to ensure product authenticity
and safety in a global marketplace. The integration of RFID and tamper-evident technologies within product labels is
becoming increasingly crucial to ensure product authenticity and security. RFID technology enables real-time tracking and authentication of products, providing a robust defense against counterfeiting and unauthorized tampering.

Coupled with other tamper-evident features, such as holographic seals or specialized adhesives, these labels not
only safeguard the integrity of products but also enhance consumer trust. These advanced technologies empower businesses to protect their brand reputation while delivering peace of mind to consumers. 

GIC launched the Taginnov line for RFID airline baggage tags, clothing labels, tracking tags, logistics labels, pharmaceutical labels, tickets for events or transport, skiing lift tickets and packaging. New line consists of systems for integration of wet or dry RFID tags in adhesive or cardboard substrates.

Seal King showed high-quality security products, including tamper-evident labels and security tapes. The tamper-evident label materials are available in different colors and transfers such as non-transfer, total transfer and partial transfer. The security tapes function as an anti-theft and counterfeit measure, leaving behind a visible ‘VOID’ message when opened. 

Shenzhen Dicheng showed customized anti-counterfeiting printing materials and Li-ion battery strapping tape. The product appears as a regular tape but reveals a hidden message when removed, providing security protection.

Holostik showed Optashield anti‑counterfeit innovation to enable end-consumers to authenticate products without any special devices. Optashield  exhibits a gradual shift between two colors when tilted either way from the viewing angle. It can be laminated on PET, HDPE, LDPE and paper. Holostik can provide Optashield with labels, holograms
and revenue stamps. The company also displayed paper hologram labels, made through the application of holography on paper instead of the traditionally used polyester.

Armor Iimak focused on the transformation of barcode to GS1 Digital Link and 2D barcodes. Linear barcodes provide limited non variable information while GS1 QR code or Datamatrix carry large about of data that can be read
by barcode scanners and smartphones. Thermal transfer technology is ready for this revolution as it prints every kind of barcodes on labels and flexible packaging. The sharpness and contrast of QR codes can be scanned and they can printed at the speed of up to 60m/min. Armor
Iimak showed thermal transfer printer ribbons for this application. Armor Iimak is GS1 premium member to support the implementation of Gs1 Digital Link in light
of Sunrise 2027.

Shosky Security exhibited a paper void label material. This product provides an environmentally friendly alternative
to plastic, featuring a translucent paper facestock that reveals a security message when removed.

WATER-BASED ADHESIVES

Adhesives and coatings on labels play an equally crucial role in the recyclability of materials. With an eye on environmental responsibility, the industry is witnessing a shift towards water-based and water-washable solutions, making it easier to remove labels from PET bottles during the recycling process. Moreover, manufacturers are embracing solvent-free silicone release coatings with minimal volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, aligning their products with regulatory requirements and sustainability objectives of brands.

Dow launched SYL-Off Protect – a carbon-neutral version of SYL-Off silicone release coatings. Solvent-free silicone release coatings were also a focus. Dow also launched its Invisu 7007 washable adhesive for filmic labels. This adhesive allows PSA labels and PET bottles to be separated in a recycling system.

Baltink was showing water-based and UV-curable coatings, including those for special effects such as soft touch, matte,
deep matte and structured. Baltink also promoted water-dispersion coatings with barrier properties intended for direct food contact and to provide a barrier to fats, oils and liquids.

HB Fuller introduced Swifttak PS 8405 water-based
pressure‑sensitive adhesive (PSA) with non-water whitening
properties. It is designed for premium PET label with a no-label look. The company also promoted ultra-removable and highly repositionable Gel-Tac products based on water-based acrylic, pressure-sensitive microsphere technology.
Henkel showcased PSA technologies including water-based, solvent-based acrylic, rubber hotmelt and UV hotmelt PSA.

Henkel’s UV hotmelt PSA is designed particularly for solvent-free adhesives applications with minimal VOC emission to help meet regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. Henkel also presented its Eco and RE PSA portfolio for labels, with targets of reducing carbon emission in label production, reducing waste, and enabling usage of high-quality recyclate.

Herma introduced label adhesive 72Gpw for PET packaging recycling. This adhesive offers double the initial adhesion of standard wash-off adhesives and supports residue-free PET separation during recycling.

Michelman showed water-based primers and overprint varnishes for digital printing on a range of recyclable and renewably sourced substrates.

Eukalin Special-Adhesives showcased a pressure-sensitive adhesive range and water-based adhesive for shrink sleeves.

INX featured EcoStage GB-XA coatings that address food safety, sustainability and recycling, allowing mono-material packaging for select food applications, extending shelf life, and reducing waste.

hubergroup presented the Hydro-X Green Line Premium series that includes cradle-to-cradle certified components. Water-based coatings in the Hydro-LAC series were also shown, that provide heat, scuff resistance, and anti-slip properties. Hydro-LAC GA and Hydro-X GA coatings enhance mono-material packaging’s oxygen, water, and grease resistance. The company showed Gecko, a
solvent-based portfolio of varnishes, additives, and primers.

Elkem introduced the Silcolease UV LED Series release coatings.

Evonik launched its next generation of Tego RC products made using recycled silicone feedstocks and can be cured using either LED or traditional mercury lamps. Evonik also launched a single component, ready-to-use release coating.

UV LED, SUSTAINABLE AND FOOD-SAFE INKS

Among the standout offerings in inks at the show were UV LED inks illustrating both energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In addition, water-based inks emerged as a prominent trend on the show floor. These inks are designed to avoid discoloration in recycled PET, ensuring that the resulting PET flakes remain clean and suitable for reuse - championing a circular economy.

Furthermore, exhibitors showcased low-migration inks, an essential element for label printing in the food industry, delivering both quality and safety in the packaging of consumables.

Exhibitors such as Siegwerk stayed the top of the game by
bringing UV, LED-UV, solvent-based and water-based inks including special whites suitable for shrink sleeves for non-food and food packaging applications. These inks are available as standard and low-migration systems. Siegwerk also showcased an ink series for the direct-to-object printing market and for sensitive applications, as well as innovations for improving packaging recyclability. It also showed newly developed TMPTA-free LED-UV curing systems Sicura Flex Dual Cure for non-food applications as well as Sicura Nutriflex LEDTec for food, pharma and hygiene packaging applications.

Zeller+Gmelin launched two new offset ink series: Uvalux
U540 LED UV and Uvalux LED FCM U581 for food packaging printing. The company also introduced Uvaflex UV-LED FCM Y581 and NON-FCM Y580, two ink series for flexo and the latest generation UV and UV-LED inkjet inks for packaging and industrial applications.

Afford Inks showcased its LED UV narrow web flexo inks.

Flint Group’s narrow web and digital team, Xeikon, unveiled Cheetah 3.0 technology for label printing, featuring Eco Toner tech made of 60 percent recycled content, PFAS, TPO, BPA, and flourine-free and is 100 percent vegan. It also showcased UV LED inks and Panther digital press with PantherCure LED inks. Xeikon introduced the Lion toner press using Eco Toner technology. Flint introduced and Evolution varnish for PET packaging, ensuring recyclability. Evolution coatings comply with FCM grade standards
for wash-off labels. The company also discussed de-inking primer for shrink sleeves. Flint also presented EkoCure UV LED inks and coatings, EkoCure Ancora F2 inks for food packaging, and sustainable Evolution primers and varnishes. Lastly, Flint launched FlintLink, a B2B platform for customer support and information.

INX showcased INXFlex Contour and Genesis washable inks. INXFlex Contour flexographic inks cure under both UV and LED, eliminating post-shrink adhesion loss and ink flaking. INX Dual Cure (DC) version enable unit-by-unit switching between UV and LED allowing converters to gradually make the shift from conventional UV to UV LED. It also showed Genesis washable inks that are de-inkable from cPET films and compatible with roll-fed OPP labels, aiding recycling. They minimize bleed in caustic wash
solutions and reduce recycled PET discoloration for clear bottle production.

hubergroup Print Solutions presented Hydro-X modular
ink mixing system for flexo and gravure printing. It includes
concentrates, blends, and additives that can be freely combined for applications such as flexible packaging, plastic film, corrugated board and folding cartons. The Gecko Green Line Premium series also features Cradle to Cradle Certified Bronze printing inks.

Nazdar Ink Technologies displayed the latest LED curing Nestlé Compliant inks, coatings and adhesives. In addition,
the company promoted new water-based flexible packaging inks.

Radior exhibited the latest generation of UV flexo metallic inks, scratch-off inks and release coatings. It also displayed its LED UV metallic and fluorescent inks. The company introduced the latest versions of Radiorplus Ecogreen mineral oil-free metallic ink and the Radiorplus Foodpack
low-migration metallic inks. The company also presented new water-based inks for food packaging. New Liquimetal W LMFP for coating units and Smart Inks W LMFP for narrow web were also shown.

Sun Chemical presented its portfolio for the packaging and narrow web, tag and label markets. Sun Chemical uses its ‘5Rs’ framework (reuse, reduce, renew, recycle and redesign) to develop the eco-efficiency and sustainability of packaging that uses its inks, coatings and adhesives. The company showed products under its SunEco portfolio, which are bio-renewable, compostable and recyclable. The company focused on its color management system Colorbox to create the required colors on site.

Nikola M Juhasz, global technical director, sustainability, Sun Chemical says: ‘We use reusable materials, reduce the use of materials, use renewable sources in our raw material formulations and regenerative bio-based materials instead of petroleum, fossil fuels derived materials. We think a lot
about recyclability and compostability and repulpability of our materials as well. 

‘We have designed our coating in place of top film that is durable and resistant and enables you to take away that top film to reduce the weight of the overall structure without loss of performance and that can be more recyclable than a two-layer system. This applies to the packaging and not just to labels – from multiple layers to mono-layer systems.’

ECG PRINTING

Extended Color Gamut (ECG) printing is gaining traction in flexo printing as it enables achieving spot colors with typically CMYK plus orange, violet and green. The process results in faster and more sustainable printing as it requires lesser ink and solvent usage and decreases press wash up between jobs.

Pulse focused on ECG printing at the show by sharing the benefits of both its Monolox Fixed Anilox Printing and its
PureTone DC dual cure inks. Visitors saw the benefits of using a single anilox volume for their print jobs with Pulse’s PureTone ink range. Pulse also showcased new food packaging-compliant PureTone DC, which can be cured with UV LED lamps. The range also includes CMYK+OGV for extended color gamut printing.

INKS FOR SPECIAL EFFECTS

Actega presented its Ecoleaf technology, a sustainable alternative to traditional metallic decoration. Actega’s range of haptic and visual effect coatings offer soft touch, matte and raised image effects. Actega also focused on its white and metallic inks.

Sirpi presented UV screen inks and UV varnishes for special effects. It showed black matte UV ink for wine labels. The company has screen and flexo varnishes for
overprinting digital labels that can accept
hot stamping.

An interesting launch by Luminochem was LuminoMark pigments, organic UV fluorescent pigments suitable for brand protection, labels or direct product marking and creative design. These pigments are virtually invisible in ambient light but show their vivid colors when exposed to UVA light. 

Not to be overlooked, were inks specifically engineered to reduce paper waste.

Siltech showed inks for variable information printing with liner-free labels, aimed at reducing paper waste. The inks are available in multiple colors and can turn any substrate into a thermal-activated area. The inks that can be used on a flexo machine like a standard UV processing ink. It is applied on label underneath the release coating to produce a UV-decorated label with variable information. The ink can be used on paper, foils and films such as BOPP polypropylene and polyethylene. The company claims to be only one to offer these inks for linerless UV printed labels with variable information.