Taghleef Industries launches detachable in-mold label films

Taghleef Industries has introduced a new proprietary technology: detachable in-mold label (IML) films for rigid polypropylene (PP) packaging decoration.

Traditional PP IML films are widely used for decorating rigid containers without the need for adhesives, offering high durability and strong visual appeal throughout a product’s lifecycle. This new technology enables the production of IML films that retain their adhesion during use but are designed to separate cleanly and easily during mechanical recycling, thanks to a uniquely engineered film structure.

During mechanical recycling, label flakes — printed with non-bleeding inks and protected with lacquers — detach first during the grinding phase, and are then removed in the air elutriation stage, where they are directed to flexible plastic recycling streams. This innovative process prevents contamination of the PP recycling flow and greatly improves the purity and quality of the recovered flakes.

'This is not a single film — it's a technology platform that redefines how IML films are designed and recycled,” said Simone Baldin, business unit manager. 'It adds significant sustainability value to our IML portfolio without compromising brand performance or production efficiency.'

Key benefits include clean separation of printed label flakes with non-bleeding inks during mechanical recycling; improved purity and reusability of recycled PP material of the container; reliable durability against heat, cold and moisture during the product lifecycle; and compatibility with existing IML and injection molding lines, all without compromising on shelf appeal, print quality or brand messaging.

The new detachable film solution is fully aligned with the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and RecyClass guidelines, which require removable labels, particularly for natural and white PP containers, to ensure full recyclability.