hubergroup launches Gecko 2-component varnish for BOPE films

hubergroup has developed a new varnish, Gecko 2-component varnish 70GL426590, that increases the heat resistance of 29 µm BOPE films from 120°C to 160°C. BOPE films have excellent recyclability, but their limited temperature resistance has hindered broader industrial applications. The new varnish opens up new possibilities for the processing and application of this sustainable packaging material. 

Thanks to significantly improved heat resistance, BOPE films are now more recycling-friendly, versatile and faster to process. The varnish creates a broader processing window and reduces the risk of sticking to sealing jaws. In addition, higher sealing temperatures enable increased cycle times on machines, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the production process.

Another key advantage of this new varnish is that it makes BOPE films suitable for pouch applications, which was previously a challenge due to the limited temperature resistance of BOPE films.

The new varnish is ethanol-based and specially developed for applications requiring high chemical resistance. It is suitable for flexographic and gravure printing processes and can be applied to various surfaces and food and beverage packaging.

With deep freeze resistance, it maintains integrity even at ultra-low temperatures. Its superior ink adhesion ensures vibrant and long-lasting print quality. Its strong scratch-resistant property protects packaging from wear and tear. It is also water resistant, shielding against moisture exposure. Its brilliant high gloss finish enhances visual appeal and shelf presence. It is also rub-resistant, withstands friction and handling stress, and has a high solvent resistance, making it suitable for demanding packaging applications.

Additionally, the varnish is NC-free, making it future-proof concerning current and upcoming regulatory requirements for recycling printed packaging. This underscores hubergroup's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging products.

The BOPE film printed with the new varnish also contained a proportion of recycled polyethylene. The Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and Trade at RWTH Aachen University successfully processed this film into a pouch as part of the PlastikBOND project.