DataLase launches new laser-active clear-to-white coatings

Laser coding and marking technology specialist DataLase has launched a new range of colorless to white coatings for a range of packaging applications.  

Centered on a biodegradable and sustainably sourced raw material, the coatings provide highly contrasting white prints at flexographic and gravure coat weights, even on difficult substrates such as 12-micron PET and shrink film. The range includes pad printable coatings, for direct-to-shape marking of objects, such as bottles, caps and closures.  

The versatile coatings are also available for folding cartons, flexible films, foils, pouches and labels. High opacity, laser-sharp print quality and QR code readability are realized across a range of lasers, providing CO2, fiber and UV lasers. 

In contrast to laser ablation, these coatings eliminate ink debris, odor and off-gassing, making the coatings suited for aseptic packaging. They also enhance the lifespan of filters and extraction equipment commonly found in printing lines. Furthermore, the coatings permit higher speed laser imaging than laser ablation, thereby increasing production throughput and, at lower laser power, extended laser working lifetime. 

Uniquely, these coatings provide white marks via a metal-free, naturally occurring alternative to titanium dioxide, which is commonly used in conventional and digital inks. This sustainable chemistry and resultant coatings are extensively protected under exclusive patents held by DataLase. This comprehensive patent protection ensures a high level of assurance within the supply chain. 

DataLase’s cheif technology officer, Ally Grant, said: ‘In line with the high expectations set by our market-leading coatings and pigment technology, our innovative clear-to-white coatings are designed to reduce consumables and waste in production environments. They not only enhance throughput and productivity, but also feature scuff and rub resistance, which minimizes the need for potential rework and further waste.  

‘These coatings are versatile enough for product coding applications across various industries, including food & beverage, home and personal care, pharmaceutical and medical. They are compatible with a wide array of substrates such as filmic materials, paper and plastics, making them ideal for use on pouches, laminates, and bottles.’