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Inx releases Genesis GS washable label inks

Inx International Ink and Sakata Inx have released Genesis GS washable label inks, a product that was recognized by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) in March for meeting or exceeding the group’s strict testing protocol for washable and recyclable PET shrink sleeve applications.

Genesis GS inks meet the PET-CG-02 Critical Guidance Protocol established by APR. It maintains properties in accordance with APR guidelines required for shrink sleeve applications and exhibits bleed resistance in caustic bath solutions. The ink is separated from the substrate and removed from the label material during the bath, making completely recyclable packaging an option.

APR noted that all colours with and without white backing, and with inside overprint varnish on Bonpet BR1 cyrstalizable film, met or exceeded APR’s PET-CG-02 Critical Guidance Protocol for Clear PET Articles with Labels and Closures. This recognition was based on the technical recyclability of the decorated label innovation with PET bottles and applies only to the decorated sleeve labels.

Genesis GS can also be used for floatable roll-fed OPP labels so a customer can print multiple label types with one ink system. Floatable applications require the ink to remain on the substrate after the caustic bath. The ink can be used at high press speeds, displays fast drying capabilities at low temperatures and adheres well to several grades of flexible films.

“With the ink cleanly removed from the PET label or floatable with OPP labels, it allows clear bottles to be made through the circular reuse of recovered materials,” said Mark Hill, senior vice president R&D for Inx.

Hill added that Inx’s R&D staff was able to troubleshoot a PET concern that arose during the testing process. “Most shrink sleeve bottles are made of PETG resin, which has a lower melting point than PET bottle flake,” he explained. “Given that, the film can turn into what is essentially a glue, clumping the PET bottle flakes and making the PET harder to utilize. Additionally, inks from PETG shrink sleeves can discolor the clear bottle flakes. Our new innovations address that issue.”