A recycler’s dream and a prerequisite for effective material cycles: pure PET flakes devoid of printing inks or label residues. HERMA has introduced six different wash-off self-adhesive materials, certified by the Institute cyclos-HTP, to achieve this goa
Herma is significantly advancing its selection of wash-off self-adhesive materials, now offering a total of six film and paper products certified with the wash-off adhesive 72Hpw. This development aligns with the EU’s Directive on single-use plastics, which mandates achieving 25% recycled content for single-use beverage bottles by 2025 and raising that figure to 65% by 2040.
Reliable recycling processes that yield high-quality PET recycled material are critical to meeting these targets. Wash-off adhesives play an essential role, as they facilitate the effective removal of labels and printing inks from the recycling process. In particular, Herma has received certification for four additional label materials compatible with the wash-off adhesive 72Hpw from the Institute cyclos-HTP, significantly expanding the range of applications for wash-off labels. Notably, two self-adhesive film materials for wash-off applications have also been added to the advantageous net width range.
“Our customers can order any roll width without having to remove residual webs or split a working width, provided that the rolls ordered each contain at least 4,000 linear metres,” explains Dr. Stefan Kissling, Head of Adhesive and Special Coating Development at Herma. “This is associated with short delivery times starting from two working days. Furthermore, since the manufacturing costs of the 72Hpw adhesive are almost at the same level as a standard permanent adhesive, practically all the arguments that might prevent someone from using a wash-off solution are refuted.”
The qualities from the net width range include the Herma PP white super TC (grade 881), certified since 2023, and Herma PP 50 transparent super TC (886). These products ensure that PET bottles for beverages can maintain an appealing appearance. Additionally, the label paper Hermacoat WS (229) possesses gentle wet strength, making it ideal for wash-off applications.
The wash-off range also encompasses Hermatherm PP white 65 (828), a direct thermal film known for its exceptional water resistance—perfect for beverage bottling. Herma PP white light (884) stands out as a resource-friendly option, being over 15% lighter than standard films. Moreover, Herma PE white LD (854) is a glossy film particularly suited for bottles, enabling efficient recycling due to its low density.
All six wash-off products from Herma can be recycled in industry-standard PET recycling plants. Impressive wash-off results are already achieved at 70 degrees Celsius in a 1% sodium hydroxide solution, depending on the label material.
“With these self-adhesive materials, we can cover almost all common wash-off applications for PET bottles in numerous markets. Print shops and label users can choose from a wide range of products,” concludes Dr. Kissling.
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