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Material and Adhesive Information
There are other factors other than adhesive that can affect overall performance. These considerations noted by material suppliers should be considered when selecting label materials.
Composition:
The composition of the container can affect the adhesive’s maximum strength and bond. Plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, metal and fabric all have different compositions which can affect how an adhesive will perform. Our standard permanent adhesive works well on most of these surfaces but just keep in mind that special adhesives may require extra considerations to ensure it’s compatible with the container’s composition.
Texture:
The texture of a container can affect how well different adhesives bond. Rough textures are harder for adhesives to stick to because of less surface area for the adhesive to grip. In cases like this, a more aggressive adhesive is required to achieve adequate adhesion.
Shape:
Curves and angles can be challenging areas to label – especially if the stock is more rigid. PSAs require some time to flow into the container to achieve maximum adhesion and when a rigid label is applied to a curved surface, the label’s stiffness can cause it to lift up from the surface before the adhesive can fully bond. If that curved container also has a rough surface, you have an even tougher challenge. At this point, consider using a more flexible facestock or a more aggressive adhesive.
Cleanliness:
Whether dirt, oil, frost, dust, etc., it’s important that the surface a label is applied to is clean. An unclean surface can prevent a label from achieving maximum adhesion. In some manufacturing processes, contamination is bound to happen. If having consistently clean surfaces isn’t an option, there are special adhesives that can overcome the issue.
Temperature:
Temperature can affect how well an adhesive can flow into the container. Extremely low temperatures can be particularly problematic as adhesives have a “minimum application temperature” -the lowest temperature they can be applied, and still have tack, before crystallizing and turning solid. If labels must be applied in a cold environment, a special adhesive is needed. The specialized “cold temp” or “all temp” adhesives can be used for application temperatures as low as -10 to -20 degrees F.
Moisture Contact:
Paper labels don’t hold up well against direct moisture or humidity in the air. If the paper label will have limited exposure to moisture, a laminate can be applied to protect the material’s integrity and printed image. Film labels are more durable against moisture contact, but clear film has some special adhesive considerations. When clear labels have an emulsion adhesive, and they’re applied to a wet or moist surface, the adhesive can re-emulsify turning the color milky white. The discoloration will dissipate, but may take days or weeks.
Service conditions:
Labels interact with the environment around them. It’s important to be aware of the various elements your labels will be exposed to over their lifespan. Some materials may be required to ensure label quality. Moisture, abrasion, heat, cold, oil, dirt…the list is practically limitless!
Semi-gloss:
A paper face material that has a sheen in between matte and glossy.
High Gloss:
A paper face material with a very glossy sheen.
White BOPP:
One of the most common label materials, made of polypropylene. Unaffected by water and oils, this is perfect for food & beverage, as well as bath & body products.
Clear BOPP:
Same material as the White BOPP in a clear version. Same durability, but gives the look of your label being printed directly on your container. This material is also great for window sticker applications- printed in reverse and applied to the non-viewing side of the glass. This material may require a layer of white ink underneath your art to allow the desired visibility. Please call or email us at info@screaminglabels.com if you are interested in using this material so we can better assist you in creating your best possible label.
White Polyester:
This bright white material will withstand harsh weather and exposure to chemicals- extremely durable and stable in almost any environment.
Matte Litho:
A dull sheen paper, excellent for indoor products. This material can be written on after printing.
Thermal Transfer:
Printed base labels can be used with your thermal transfer (ribbon) printer to add specifics such as batch, expiration or other variable data.
Direct Thermal:
Similar to thermal transfer, with the exception that the thermal printer uses heat in place of a ribbon to apply the variable data.
Gold & Silver Foil:
A glossy-sheen film that has a shine that is unaffected by ink application. This material adds a level of flash to any indoor product.
Gloss & Matte Lamination:
Adds a protective layer to your label, as well as a sheen.
Questions? Email us at info@screaminglabels.com or (419) 720-4366 ext# 236.