Henkel Adhesive Technologies has launched Aquence HS 2819 RE, a recycling-compatible, water-based heat-seal coating designed to provide a reliable seal on paper-based eCommerce packaging. According to Henkel, the coating consists “solely of ingredients classified as harmless and is free of mineral oils and carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction substances.”
The company stated that, under specified conditions, the coating complies with the requirements of the US Food and Drug Administration and EU regulations, as well as the recommendations of Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment for food packaging. Henkel also stated that accredited testing institutes have confirmed its recyclability.
Arianna Savini, market strategy manager for Europe Paper Packaging at Henkel, said, “Sustainability and performance are not mutually exclusive in packaging technology; they are interdependent. With Aquence HS 2819 RE, paper mailers can be optimized to meet the demands of modern eCommerce.”
“This enables automated right-sizing processes without compromising recyclability or functionality. The coating runs stably on flexographic and rotogravure printing presses, even at high speeds. As a platform technology, it is also suitable for other paper-based applications, such as food packaging, industrial bags, and hygiene products,” Savini added.
Henkel noted that pre-formed cardboard boxes and envelopes have traditionally been the dominant packaging formats in eCommerce. However, packaging is now tailored precisely to each shipment, according to the company.
Paper-based mailers made from high-strength kraft paper are said to provide protection while reducing packaging weight and material use.
“Paper mailers made from heat-sealable roll stock support this approach. They adapt to the product’s shape, reduce empty space and material consumption, and increase the efficiency of logistics processes,” the company said.
“Paper-based mailing envelopes are gaining particular importance in the fashion industry, which accounts for more than half of the global demand for flexible eCommerce packaging. However, they are also used for shipping electronic products, toys, and many other product categories.”
Henkel noted that paper mailers can meet the requirements for recyclability and minimal empty space in packaging under the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which is set to take effect in 2030.