hubergroup develops PU-based printing ink for flexo in demanding applications

Gecko Platinum complements hubergroup’s existing family of Gecko flexo and gravure inks, which are based on nitrocellulose (NC). Gecko Platinum uses a polyurethane (PU) binder system, which Lutz Frischmann, director of technology management for liquid inks at hubergroup, explained was chosen in order to provide an option for flexo printing on film laminates in demanding applications, such as for use in sterilization, which have largely relied on gravure to achieve the desired ink characteristics.

‘For standard applications, such as packaging for dry package contents, we already have well-established NC ink systems. However, NC systems cannot be used for applications involving sterilization due to the limited thermostability of nitrocellulose. Until now, specialized ink series based on polyvinylbutyral (PVB) or polyvinylchloride (PVC) have been used for such high-performance laminations. However, flexo printers are either not able to use these specialized inks at all as with PVC-based inks or only to a very limited extent in the case of PVB inks. Moreover, brand owners are increasingly demanding chlorine-free binders and pushing the established PVC systems in gravure to the limits of their capabilities.

‘Extensive field trials in combination with various solvent-based and solvent-free adhesive systems have confirmed that Gecko Platinum offers consistently high bond strength values in both standard and high-performance applications, including sterilization. Print quality is excellent even in fine halftone designs with 60 lines/cm or more.’

On October 25, more than 100 clients from the international printing industry who specialize in flexible packaging came to Lengerich, Germany in order to learn more about the properties of these inks. The product presentation was supported by a live demonstration at Windmöller & Hölscher, a press manufacturer and system supplier for flexible packaging.

At the product launch, Dr Giuseppe Gianetti, director of product management for liquid inks at hubergroup, said: ‘The downsizing of print runs is a key factor in Europe, and retortability is supporting this concept very well thanks to the wide range of applications open. The availability of high-performance inks for sterilization applications now enables flexo to fight for a share of this market too.

‘Gecko Platinum Flexo opens up new market opportunities for forward-thinking flexo printers in areas that until now have been the preserve of gravure printers.’

Gecko Platinum is currently available as ready-to-use inks.