Flexible packaging laminating adhesive are used to bond two or more films, paper or foil together to protect the content of the packaging.
For example, a stand up food pouch may consist of reverse printed polyester film (PET) adhesively bonded to polyethylene film (PE). The PET film provides high gloss and scuff resistance to protect the printed graphics, while the PE film provides a surface that can be heatsealed to form a food containing pouch or bag. The PU adhesive with good adhesion to the films and ink, good appearance, coat at high line speed without misting, good heat resistance, lower or no migration into the packaged food, does not scavenge slip from the film and have good resistance to the ingredients being packaged.
Aromatic solventless adhesives, otherwise known as 100% reactive, are an excellent choice for laminating adhesives. Typical features and properties of solventfree adhesives include:
- versatility in formulating polyurethanes to meet adhesive performance requirements such as bond strengths, heat seal strength and product resistance.
- smaller capital investment for converters.
- less energy consumption due to no ovens.
- lower adhesive coat weight compared to solvent based adhesives.
- higher production line speeds.
- lower / no VOCs.
- smaller floor space requirement.
