New Herma pharmaceutical label adhesive cuts migration through PE plastics

In standardized tests conforming to European standard EN 1186, the adhesive performed ‘exceptionally well’. Having concluded its examination, the test institute ISEGA confirmed that the migration values were below the detection limit. ‘The PE film used in these tests is extremely thin and therefore especially prone to migration,’ said Dr Ulli Nägele, head of development at Herma. ‘Although the 63Mps grade was expected to post low migration values, its outstanding performance in these conditions and the absence of measurable migration represent a minor sensation even for us.’

Herma said such migration values are very important for labeling in the pharmaceutical sector as more and more manufacturers are rejecting glass in favor of plastic containers. Compared to glass, both HDPE and LDPE plastics offer numerous benefits as regards cost, transport and safety. Switching to PE, however, also entails a sharp rise in the risk of migration. Unlike glass, many PE plastics do not offer any effective barrier properties.

‘By a large margin, PE is the standard plastic most widely used for this application worldwide,’ confirmed Nägele. ‘Most pharmaceutical packages made of plastic are a lot thicker than the thin PE films that were used in the tests. In practice, therefore, product safety is actually that much greater.’

63Mps offers additional benefits that are said to be unique alongside its resistance to migration. It performs reliably, for example, even when applied to containers with very small circumferences. With test tubes, small bottles and vials, it significantly reduces the risk of the label lifting off because of the large elastic forces that come into play. Strong initial tack means it is also suitable for labeling applications in cool environments and at high speed.

The new adhesive 63Mps is available in combination with a broad array of white paper and film products, including especially supple materials that are ideal for reliable wrap-around labelling applications.