Study Confirms the Recyclability and Repulpability of Foil-Decorated Paper

TOPEKA, Kan.—The Foil Stamping & Embossing Association (FSEA) recently published a new study that confirms the recyclability and repulpability of foil-decorated paper and board. Pira International, Surrey, UK, was commissioned by the FSEA to conduct the study and produce the findings, which have been compiled in a 14-page study.

To conduct the study, foil stamped paper/board was utilized from both the more traditional hot foil stamping process and also the cold foil process. The evaluation included foil decorated product that represented 25 percent post-consumer waste up to 100 percent post-consumer waste, meeting levels that far exceed normal conditions. “It has become quite apparent that this study is extremely important to the long-term health of our industry and association,” stated FSEA Executive Director Jeff Peterson. “We are very excited with the positive findings of the study and are making every effort to communicate these findings to the graphic arts and packaging industries as quickly as possible.”

Along with the findings, the study describes the pulping and screening methods used in the research, and provides a complete analysis of the reporting results from the testing methods. The main conclusion from the study validates the recyclability of paper products decorated by both the traditional hot stamp and new cold foil processes. In addition, the study finds that neither hot nor cold foil-decorated products would give rise to problems found in other decorating processes that may render the decorated paper products unsuitable for recycling.

To obtain a copy of the study or to receive further information, contact the Foil Stamping & Embossing Association at 785-271-5816 or by e-mail at jeff@fsea.com