Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) announced it has received RecyClass Technology Approvals for pressure-sensitive labels (PSL) on PET trays, a market first.
The approvals cover the AD CleanFlake™ Thermal PP White (S7000ER) and the newly introduced AD CleanFlake™ Chilled Thermal PP White (C7010ER) technologies. The approved technologies have been evaluated and confirmed as fully compatible with both clear transparent and colored transparent PET thermoforms recycling streams within existing European recycling processes.
A major highlight of the approval is the newly developed AD CleanFlake Chilled adhesive, designed specifically for PET trays in chilled environments. Offering high-tack performance at low temperatures and compatibility with air-blown dispensing, this solution addresses one of the most common applications in the food market.
The AD CleanFlake Chilled Thermal PP solution enables converters and brand owners to seamlessly transition from paper to film labels while using the same direct thermal printing technology. These first-to-market approvals for PET trays mark a significant step forward for the packaging industry as it adapts to the European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
By selecting RecyClass-approved label technologies, consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands and converters can support the design-for-recycling performance of PET trays as they prepare for PPWR requirements.
Depending on the design and configuration of the complete package, this may contribute to achieving a high RecyClass recyclability classification, including potentially class A. Furthermore, using components that meet RecyClass Design for Recycling (DfR) Guidelines may contribute to lower Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees in countries where eco-modulation applies.
“Our AD CleanFlake portfolio was developed 13 years ago to enable PET bottle recycling, and we are proud to announce that it also continues to be a solution designed to be compatible with PET thermoforms recycling processes. This approval showcases our leadership in bringing to market solutions designed to help customers prepare for upcoming recyclability requirements without compromising on convenience, flexibility and performance.”