UPM introduces RW85C wash-off label materials

Because PET plastic packaging is lightweight and economical to manufacture, it is in high demand. Although PET has the highest recycling rate among plastics, less than half is collected for recycling, and the vast majority that is recycled is downcycled because it is not suitable for turning back into bottles or food containers. This can be due to the labels not separating well during the recycling process.

UPM Raflatac’s new wash-off label materials separate even better than before, due to the improved formulation of the RW85C adhesive offering clarity and haze levels, which leads to higher value PET flakes suitable for newly formed PET containers.

The SmartCircle RW85C range is recognized by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), as meeting or exceeding its Critical Guidance testing requirements. Available as clear, white or silver metalized film face materials, these labeling options have an added sustainability benefit by being paired with UPM Raflatac’s PCR liner – featuring up to 90 percent post-consumer recycled content.

‘At UPM Raflatac we are committed to exploring and innovating for a future beyond fossils. Our company is seeking ever smarter, more circular ways to transform waste into raw materials and increase the recyclability of the products we use every day,’ said says Tyler Matusevich, sustainability manager, Americas, at UPM Raflatac. ‘We’re proud to offer an even better version of our cutting-edge RW85C solutions in the Americas to help support brands in their sustainability targets for recycled materials in their packaging and in their transition from a linear to circular economy.’