Breakthrough claimed in no-look PS label for returnable beverage markets

Spear and IlloSpear have commercialized ThermoWash, a pressure-sensitive label construction that allows beverages packaged in returnable bottles to employ the same labeling techniques of one-way containers.  The ThermoWash label “washes off” the bottle during the cleaning process, allowing a new label to be used for each bottle trip.
ThermoWash matches the graphics, label performance, and application speeds of traditional non-returnable, pressure-sensitive label constructions.  It has the ability to utilize all existing print methods, including screen, gravure, UV Flexo, letterpress, and combination printing, along with providing the clear, no-label look. 
It also applies at speeds equal to current pressure-sensitive labels up to 1000 bottles per minute and withstands filling and distribution environments, including ice-water baths for 72 hours with no adverse effects.
ThermoWash is a polypropylene material that, using current industry processes, detaches from bottles in fashion similar to paper labels.  With ThermoWash, the labels curl, but do not shrink, to aid in removal from the bottle.  They can be removed in a washing range from 60 - 80 C, with 75 C ideal.
The label face stock and adhesive remain in one piece during the removal process while the adhesive “de-tacks” during bottle washing, allowing for easy removal.  The process provides acceptable caustic pollution levels - external accreditation is in process.  VLB approval along with Krones, KHS, and SIG washer approvals are also in process.  Once removed, the labels can be incinerated.
Multiple patents are pending for both the ThermoWash product and process.