HERMA, a prominent European packaging and product labeling specialist, is unveiling a significant advancement in PET packaging’s closed material cycle at Labelexpo. The newly developed label adhesive, 72Gpw, enhances the PET recycling process by offering double the initial adhesion of standard wash-off adhesives while maintaining high final adhesion and washability. The Cyclos-HTP Institute has certified the adhesive’s compatibility with various film and paper label materials, providing a robust argument for the adoption of wash-off solutions.
Hendrik Kehl, Product Manager at HERMA, emphasizes that this advancement eliminates the need for compromises in terms of adhesion or washability, particularly under challenging conditions like high-speed labeling systems or varying environmental factors. Apart from contributing to secure labeling, the adhesive also supports recycling processes by ensuring residue-free separation of PET material from labels, adhesives, and inks. This separation is crucial for producing purer granulate.
This development aligns well with the objectives of the planned European Packaging Directive, which aims to close material cycles and enhance packaging’s recyclability. Stricter packaging design guidelines are expected as a result. The introduction of the new wash-off adhesive could catalyze the adoption of such solutions, addressing challenges in market penetration observed so far.
HERMA, headquartered in Filderstadt, Germany, achieved a turnover of approximately €510.6 million in 2022. With over 1,100 employees, the company operates in three business divisions, serving as a key player in the packaging and labeling industry.