In light of regulatory mandates, PET has emerged as an increasingly essential raw material. The proposed EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) necessitates that PET bottles are designed for easy recycling. Simultaneously, binding specifications regarding the use of recycled material are being enforced. Starting in 2025, single-use PET bottles are required to contain a minimum of 25 percent recycled material, increasing to 30 percent by 2030. However, current practices are falling short of this potential. While over 60 percent of PET bottles are collected across Europe, the PET value chain could reintegrate over 11 billion additional bottles into the recycling loop annually. Contaminants that render the material unfit for recycling often hinder effective processes.
Conventional hot melt adhesives widely employed for labeling PET bottles present significant challenges during recycling. Research indicates that even in the hot caustic soda bath—a standard step in the recycling process—only 12 to 30 percent of the adhesive generally dissolves. Consequently, this results in contaminated PET flakes that compromise the quality of recycled products, leading to cloudiness and yellowing. Additionally, these compromised flakes cannot be utilized in applications such as food and beverage packaging due to their diminished barrier properties.
To address this issue, Henkel has introduced Technomelt EM 335 RE, an adhesive specifically designed for the modern recycling landscape. This alkali-dispersible adhesive can be removed by up to 98 percent, allowing adhesive residue to be effectively separated from the material stream along with label residue. Technomelt EM 335 RE excels not only in its recycling capabilities but also in its performance. It is optimized for attaching both paper and plastic labels, capable of bonding up to 40,000 bottle labels per hour. Furthermore, it features a low processing temperature range of 110 to 140°C. This attribute not only protects production equipment but also conserves energy and enhances operational reliability. Due to its mineral oil-free formulation and adherence to food regulations, this hot melt adhesive is suitable even for the most sensitive food and beverage packaging applications. Its convenient packaging in X-tra chubs ensures safe handling while minimizing packaging waste.
PETCYCLE in Germany has already green-lighted Technomelt EM 335 RE, paving the way for a functional circular economy. It assists bottlers and recyclers in meeting new regulatory demands reliably. Thanks to an adhesive that remains effective only for as long as required, each bottle can be recycled with confidence.
**Short Description**
Lightweight, robust, and crystal-clear: PET bottles have become an essential component of the beverage industry. Used millions of times, they keep carbonated beverages sparkling, water fresh, and juices aromatic. A key element in their success lies in the fact that PET is one of the few plastics capable of being recycled almost infinitely—provided all components function harmoniously. The adhesive securing the label to the bottle plays a crucial role in the quality of the recycled material. Any residue that fails to dissolve during recycling impacts the integrity of the PET flakes. Henkel’s innovative hot melt adhesive, Technomelt EM 335 RE, facilitates clean separation for enhanced recycling outcomes.
