RecyClass has granted approval for a new generation of nitrocellulose (NC)-free inks designed for surface and reverse printing, which are reported to be fully compatible with the recycling streams for PE and PP flexible packaging.

Source: PackagingInsights

The recyclability non-profit organization states that this approval was given after “extensive testing with leading ink suppliers.”

Currently, the majority of flexible packaging in Europe is printed on the surface using NC-based inks; however, RecyClass indicates that this practice poses challenges for plastic recycling.

The RecyClass PO Films Technical Committee initiated a testing campaign aligned with the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE films, aiming to discover “more circular” printing alternatives. The tests focused on four different ink technologies utilizing new polyurethane (PU) chemistry, as well as one acrylic-based ink technology.

Additional testing on an ink sample containing a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) binder produced similar results, according to the non-profit.

The RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines will be updated accordingly.

New Ink Technology

RecyClass monitors the clarity regarding the origins of plastic waste and strives to create a unified method for calculating and tracing recycled plastics in Europe.

This cross-industry initiative develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic materials, which form the foundation for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool.

Moreover, RecyClass provides Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, as well as certifications for Sorting Processes, Recycling Processes, and Recycled Plastics Traceability for plastic products.

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