Dow is set to make a significant impact at Labelexpo Europe 2023, taking place from 11 to 14 September, by showcasing their cutting-edge materials and technologies at Stand 7E41 in Hall 7. Their focus is on advancing label performance within a circular economy framework, underlining their commitment to sustainable innovation.
One of the highlights of Dow’s presence at the event is the launch of SYL-OFF Protect, a carbon-neutral selection of SYL-OFF Silicone Release Coatings. These products, certified by an independent third party according to PAS 2060, offer the same high quality and performance that customers in the label industry have come to expect from standard SYL-OFF Silicone Release Coatings. However, they also bring the added advantage of a reduced carbon footprint. This innovative offering is in alignment with Dow’s dedication to delivering sustainable solutions through materials science.
Nathalie Gerard, European market manager for Dow Pressure Sensitive Industries, emphasized the importance of providing customers with both quality and sustainability. She said, “Our selected range of SYL-OFF Protect Silicone Release Coatings are making it possible by combining a reduction of carbon footprint without compromising on quality.” Dow is excited to introduce this carbon-neutral option at Labelexpo Europe and engage with customers to promote the idea that performance and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Dow will also be featuring other silicone technologies during the event, including SYL-OFF SL 184 Coating, a solvent-free solution ideal for high-speed coating operations. This coating cures rapidly, minimizes mist at high line speeds, and delivers stable release properties. Its accolades include a 2023 R&D 100 Award, a 2022 Silver Edison Award, a 2022 SEAL Sustainability Award, and a nomination for the Innovation Award in the Label Awards 2023.
Another offering is SYL-OFF SL 351 Coating, a solvent-less silicone release coating designed to reduce soak-in on porous substrates. This innovation allows producers to achieve cost savings by using less expensive paper and reducing silicone usage. It has broad applicability across various industries.
In the realm of label adhesives, Dow’s portfolio of high-performance water-borne label acrylic adhesives stands out. These adhesives excel under pressure, offering exceptional adhesive strength, UV resistance, temperature stability, and processing efficiency. A notable addition to this portfolio is INVISU 7007 Wash-Off Label Adhesive, which facilitates the separation of polyolefin-based (PE, PP) filmic labels from PET bottles, enhancing PET recycling. This acrylic technology also boasts moisture resistance, ease of converting and processing, and recognition by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for its alignment with caustic wash recycling guidelines.
Dow’s collaboration with Avery Dennison has led to a groundbreaking development in hotmelt adhesives, particularly for chilled food applications. This co-developed technology allows polyolefin filmic labels and polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) packaging to be mechanically recycled together, offering superior recyclability compared to standard hotmelts while maintaining performance. This innovation relies on AFFINITY GA Polymers from Dow and is marketed by Avery Dennison as CF3050 in the Europe, Middle East, North Africa region (EMENA).
In addition to their presence at Labelexpo Europe, Dow will be participating in the AWA International Label Release Liner Seminar. Alex Knott, Dow’s principal technical service and development scientist, will be part of a round table discussion titled ‘The Future of Release Liner & Pressure Sensitive Labeling’ on 12 September at 1:40 pm.
