Closing the circle

Press reports Self-adhesive Materials

06. May 2011

For the first time, HERMA is now offering label sets with the liner and label made entirely from recycled paper. The company is also adding new PEFC-certified papers to its product range

Self-adhesive materials specialist HERMA is rapidly expanding its portfolio with especially environment-friendly products. By stepping up the exclusive use of recycled paper for both the liner and the label itself, it is using the materials in a more or less continuous cycle. At the same time, the range of sustainable products is being developed through the launch of PEFC-certified papers.

Last year, the company based near Stuttgart, Germany, started its collaboration with the Cycle4Green initiative, which recycles silicone-coated release liner. For the first time, HERMA is now able to offer both the liner and the label itself entirely made of recovered paper. The label paper, designated HERMAlaser Recycling (grade 167), offers very high whiteness and purity without requiring the addition of optical brighteners or chlorine bleach. "Thanks to special processing of the waste paper, HERMAlaser Recycling is practically indistinguishable from wood-free label paper as regards whiteness and appearance," insists HERMA managing director Dr. Thomas Baumgärtner. "Its processability also compares favourably with that of conventional paper grades." The new paper is compatible with both laser and inkjet printers. It satisfies the requirements of several strict, acknowledged environmental standards, including Nordic Swan, Blauer Engel and the Recycled Mark of the British National Association of Paper Merchants (NAPM). An Océ test report has also been obtained. Made entirely from recycled fibre, the liner is a white, one-side coated kraft paper designated HERMA KW (grade 540). It is typically used for computer labels printed by continuous and sheet-fed laser printers for applications requiring elevated stiffness. As part of the finished label, the liner offers good properties for all conventional flatbed and rotary die-cutting machines.

By offering two new PEFC-certified grades, HERMA is also enabling label manufacturers to win over customers with their green credentials. With its semi-gloss coated surface, HERMAcoat PEFC (grade 742) is the perfect choice for high-quality labels printed in colour. It also gives rise to compelling print quality with thermal transfer printing. HERMAlaser opak PEFC (grade 727), in turn, is ideal for high-opacity labelling applications. It delivers good printing performance not only with laser printers, but also with most inkjet systems. PEFC, the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes, warrants compliance with sustainable forestry, giving due consideration to ecological, economic and social aspects. Most forest owners worldwide are now committed to the PEFC mark.