An innovative and sustainable adhesive from Henkel has received CHI certification from the cyclos-HTP Institute. The water-based acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive is used for olefin film labels for washable PET bottles and thus enables the labels to be removed effectively during recycling.
The certificate of the cyclos-HTP Institute states that the acrylate-based dispersion pressure-sensitive adhesive in combination with a label made of polyolefin substrate (PO) No negative impact on the recycling cycle of transparent PET bottles has. It is therefore suitable for PET recycling in accordance with the CHI standard. Aquence PS 3017 RE was developed to support recycling via the PET flake process. Whereas previously an energy-intensive high-temperature process was required to completely remove the labels, the new adhesive ensures optimum washability - even at 65 °C for PE facestock.
This allows the Easily remove labels from bottles with less energy consumption, which also increases the purity and value of the recycled PET. The adhesive is not only a sustainable solution for olefinic labels (e.g. BOPP and PE) on washable PET bottles, but is also approved for food contact. It also offers excellent resistance to fading caused by water, so that clear labels remain completely transparent even after prolonged exposure to water.
„We are delighted to have independent confirmation that this innovative adhesive can help optimise recyclability and support the circular economy. We are proud to work with our partners in the packaging and recycling value chain to reduce packaging waste while delivering higher quality recyclates. This is crucial to fulfil the regulations that require a higher percentage of recycled material in plastic packaging. By ensuring that labels and adhesives are part of the solution, Henkel is contributing to a more sustainable future for plastic packaging.“
Elodie Picard, Director Market Strategy, Tapes & Labels at Handle
Henkel's latest generation of water-based acrylic adhesives for wash-off labels has recently been successfully qualified for Consumer Brands brands. Carsten Bertram, Head of Packaging Sustainability - Henkel Consumer Brands, explains: „This innovative PSA solution for labels helps to create a achieve high-quality recycling of PET bottles. This is an important building block for a true circular economy.“ Aquence is a registered trademark of Henkel and/or its subsidiaries in the USA, Germany and other countries.
Source: Handle
