17 Sep
Shrink Sleeves, Taurus Packaging

How Shrink Sleeves Affect PP Container Recycling

In our previous article, we talked about the effect of shrink sleeves on PET bottle recycling. In this article, let’s look at how PP containers react to recycling when shrink sleeves stay attached to them.

PP or Polypropylene is a type of plastic commonly used to manufacture food containers utilized in packaging takeaway food items and beverages, etc.

Though PP containers are recyclable, certain film substrates interfere with the recycling process if they are left attached to the containers. That’s why businesses must know which shrink films are best for proper recycling and the correct procedures to follow during PP container recycling.

 

Selection of a Film Substrate

Compatibility: Some sleeve label materials have a density of <1.0 and thus float in the float/sink tank, remaining with the PP. This material cannot be removed during the recycling process. Hence, it can contaminate the recycled PP if not compatible with the PP.

 

What’s the Solution?

  • Films compatible with PP recycling sink in water and can separate from the PP floating in the water. That’s why a preferred choice is to use full bottle sleeve labels specifically crafted for automatic sorting.
  • Considering that a full bottle sleeve gets attached to the full surface of the bottle, leaving only a small portion uncovered, we must select a material compatible with automatic sorting, or the sorter machine may segregate the PP bottle with the wrong materials destroying it.
  • Also, PVC material needs strict avoidance as even a trace amount can contaminate the reprocessed PP.

 

Label Inks

The type of ink used on sleeve labels of PP containers also has a bearing on their recyclability.

For example, certain types of label inks bleed during the wash step of the recycling process. If the PP container catches on to the ink color, it becomes discolored, making it even more difficult to salvage the PP and turning it reusable for various intended purposes.

 

What’s the Solution?

  • It is recommended to select inks with the correct density, so they stay on the label during the wash process.
  • And do not bleed and mix with the water.

 

Why Using Pressure-Sensitive PP/PE Labels is Detrimental for PPRecycling?

When recycling a PP container, it is important to know how a certain film substrate will behave in contact with water.

Will the adhesive used to secure the label give away and release the label or will it keep the label held on to the container? In other words, will the label sink or float?

Hence, it is here that testing the adhesives to see how they react becomes crucial. Either the adhesive must be well suited to the PP or it should come off hassle-free during the wash process.

If not, and even the slightest traces of the adhesive stay, it will discolor the recycled PP, spoiling the end result.

 

Model Specifications – Shrink Sleeve Labels for PP Bottles

 According to the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), here are the identified characteristics considered compatible with PP recycling –

 Full Compatibility: Sleeves PETG with density >1 g/cm³, and with a size that does not hinder the recognition of the underlying PP-polymer.

Limited Compatibility: Sleeves in PVC, PLA, PS (all with density > 1 g/cm³)

Low Compatibility: Sleeves that hinder the recognition of the PP; Sleeves in non-PP-materials with density < 1 g/cm³; Aluminium/Metalised Sleeves; Heavily inked sleeves

 

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Considering that plastic continues to be frequently used in packaging and requires proper recycling, it is the responsibility of businesses to be conscious about their choices.

The future may see us joining hands with label suppliers who offer recycling-compatible sleeves for their products. But until then, it is on us to do our bit towards a cleaner, safer environment for us and our future generations.

 

Would you like to get an expert opinion on the best recyclable packaging solutions for your products? Then feel free to book a discovery call with me at www.chetan-jain.com.

02 Aug
Shrink Sleeves, Taurus Packaging

How Shrink Sleeves Affect Pet Bottle Recycling

Every business that is a part of the packaging industry must know the importance of proper recycling, be it manufacturers, label suppliers, or consumer brands. And considering that a lot of different materials get used to creating products, it is crucial to understand how shrink sleeves affect their overall recyclability.

In this article, we will look at the effects of shrink sleeves when PET bottles and containers are attached to get recycled – along with how to better the recycling process using globally recognized options and alternatives.

Let’s dive in.

Compatibility of PVC, PETG, OPS, and PLA Film Substrate

Research shows shrink-label films made of PVC, PETG, PLA &OPS are incompatible with PET recycling.

For example, if we use PVC shrink label films and recycle the PET containers they are attached to, it causes black speck contamination, making the container non-recyclable.

Similarly, using PETG shrink label film, PLA or OPS shrink sleeves also render the containers incapable of recycling and cause complicated issues.

 

What’s The Solution?

 

  • Before recycling PET bottles and containers, the sleeves attached to them need to be removed so that the films do not interfere with the recycling process.
  • Another option is to use PET-based films. Once crystallized, they recycle along with the bottles to which they are attached.
  • You can also opt for labels and films that leave the PET bottle and stay suspended in the water.

 

Printing Inks

During the wash step of the recycling process, the PET flake gets combined with the hot alkaline water. Usually, the ink used on the label discolors and contaminates it.

 

What’s The Solution?

 

  • As soon as the ink leaves the shrink sleeve label, it must be carefully cleaned and filtered, not only from the PET flakes but also the wash water to avoid damages.
  • With labels that float in the water, using inks with the right density is important to ensure the labels continue to stay afloat without any chances of descending.
  • And that the inks stay on the label.

 

Growing Awareness About the Importance of Proper Recycling

Over the last couple of years, more businesses have become sensitized about finding ways to recycle PET bottles and containers correctly. As well as ensuring that the labels do not interfere or delay their proper recycling.

For example, de-seaming adhesives are making it simpler, easier, and faster to get the label off the container before it gets washed during recycling.

Innovative label films are coming up in the market to create more sophisticated shrink labels. And certain printing ink formulations no longer jeopardize PET’s recyclability.

Machines such as De-Labelers are speeding up the act of detaching labels from PET bottles at the initial stages of recycling. And much more.

So, it is safe to say that in the coming years, more advancement in PET recycling can be expected throughout the world.

 

Model Specifications – Shrink Sleeve Labels on PET Containers

Full Compatibility: Sleeves with density <1 g/cm³, and with a size that does not hinder the recognition of the underlying PET-polymer.; PET (not PETG) sleeves with washable inks.

LIMITED COMPATIBILITY: Twin-perforated sleeves for easy removal.

LOW COMPATIBILITY: Sleeves that hinder the recognition of the underlying PET-polymer (e.g., too large, metalized, heavily inked);

Sleeves with density >1 g/cm³ (e.g.,PVC; PS; PET; PETG); Foamed PETG sleeves (even with density <1 g/cm³);

PETG sleeves with non-washable inks.

 

CLOSING THOUGHTS

As the world moves towards responsible recycling and sustainability, it is the duty of every business in the packaging supply chain to contribute to this endeavor by making the right shift.

There should be a greater focus on sensitizing businesses and consumers about recyclability guidelines and label removal before disposing of PET bottles. And with time, brands should look towards collaborating with label suppliers that offer recycling-compatible sleeves for their products.

A little effort in the right direction can make a big difference.

 

Would you like to get an expert opinion on the best recyclable packaging solutions for your products? Then feel free to book a discovery call with me at www.chetan-jain.com.