DTM Print has produced new biobased papers, mono-material label materials, and a new colour label printer with its sights set on enhanced recyclability, increased efficiency, and reduced environmental impact during label production processes.
The DTM EcoTec brings together the company’s sustainability-minded, recycled, or natural labels. With more substrates set to be added in the future, the range aims to negate the need to separate packaging components before disposal and thus simplify the recycling process.
DTM EcoTec Hemp Paper sources all of its fibres from hemp, which can reportedly be harvested up to three times a year as opposed to the seven-year cycle of plantation trees. These fibres are five times longer than wood pulp and, according to DTM Print, unlock both tear resistance and recyclability.
The natural grass fibres used in DTM Grass Paper are intended to cut down on process water use during production and give the paper a natural aesthetic. Apparently its adhesive is a permanent, solvent-free acrylic dispersion that is suitable for direct food contact according to EU Regulation No 10/2011.
DTM EcoTec Paper Matte Nature is a paper label made from recycled backing from used label rolls.
Meanwhile, DTM EcoTec Poly Clear Gloss R90 is a clear, glossy poly label containing 90% post-consumer recycled PET. It is said to offer the same clarity, mechanical properties, and printing characteristics as DTM Poly Clear Gloss, an alternative counterpart that doesn’t contain recycled materials.
DTM Print adds that all the labels in its EcoTec line use less than 0.01% of used water-soluble adhesive. This is set to enable easy label removal, while the adhesive itself dissolves during the recycling process without contaminating the recyclate.
Alongside its mono-materials, DTM Print has also unveiled a range of colour label printers, including the LX610e Color Label Printer. It is designed to print and cut any label shape in a matter of seconds using only one device.
It brings together intuitive software, colour inkjet label printing, and a built-in digital die-cutting mechanism. In addition, it is said to offer low maintenance requirements with an ultra-high capacity single CMY ink cartridge; high-resolution colour inkjet printing, even at high speeds; and interchangeable dye or pigment inks for full-colour prime labels or water- and UV-resistant labels.
LX610e also seeks to consume low amounts of energy, reduce weight by using less materials, facilitate the use of non-toxic ink supplies, and offer 100% recyclable components.
“To produce exceptional product labels for all kinds of applications you not only need advanced and resource-friendly print technology as integrated in our colour label printers but also high-quality material,” explains Albion Bekolli, label specialist at DTM Print. “Every product leaves a footprint on our planet and using label material that is environmentally friendly and sustainable helps to keep it as small as possible.”
In similar news, Domino Printing Sciences has launched its new Mx-Series print and apply labelling machines, designed to automate traceability coding and enhance visibility across the supply chain.
Canon will also present its Canon LabelStream LS2000 water-based inkjet label press for industrial-scale label printing at Canon Expo in Yokohama and drupa 2024 in Düsseldorf.
Furthermore, UPM Raflatac recently hit its responsible sourcing target six years ahead of time, with all the papers it sources now certified under a credible third-party forest certification scheme.
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