New Pulp-based Film is Converter and Environmentally Friendly
New Britain, Pa.—Hutchison Millers Sales has introduced a pulp-based film that combines the ease-of-use of paper and the durability and other performance qualities that have made film an increasingly popular substrate for numerous converting applications.
Because it is pulp- and not petroleum-based, “Clairifoil” diacetate film answers the industry’s long-standing demand for an environmentally friendly substrate that is easily recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable. This cellulose acetate film can be used for pressure-sensitive labels and tapes, carton windows, print lamination, and other applications.
“To its credit, our industry has become increasingly environmentally conscious in recent years,” says Rob Hutchison, president of Hutchison Miller Sales. “Unfortunately, the inherent properties of traditional film substrates have hampered these efforts. Clairifoil successfully addresses many of these limitations.”
Clairifoil has received European EN 13432 accreditation, which is internationally recognized and the equivalent to the American ASTM D6400 standard. The accreditation has been awarded following independent testing of Clairifoil’s biodegradability and compostability and covers all Clairifoil surface finishes, gloss, matt, semitone and satine up to 106 microns. The film is also stable at high temperatures up to 156 degrees and available in widths up to 54 inches.
Because it is pulp-based, Clairifoil is odorless and FDA approved for food contact, yet offers proven consumer appeal due to its high transparency, excellent surface gloss, sparkle and sheen, and does not whiten when stretched or creased.
In label applications, it offers excellent processing characteristics, such as diecutting and high-speed dispensing, with good compatibility with both waterbased and solvent-based adhesives. Further, the film is easily printed and is easily foil stamped. In addition, it offers tamper-evident capabilities and can incorporate such critical elements as holograms, logos and taggets.
Further bolstering its environmental friendliness, Clairifoil’s principal raw material, wood pulp, is a natural and sustainable resource that is sourced 100% from managed forestry, with no endangered hard woods used. The fast-growing trees themselves absorb CO2, thereby resulting in cleaner air.
“Clairifoil is a clear breakthrough that obviously offers numerous advantages over traditional film stock,” says Hutchison. “It’s just what the industry has been searching for, and now it’s here.”
