DTM introduces EcoTec line for eco-friendly labels

DTM Print, international OEM provider for specialty printing systems, has bundled its selection of eco-friendly, recycled or natural labels under the new label line DTM EcoTec. 

As of now, the following four inkjet materials are part of the EcoTec line; further substrates will follow.   

DTM EcoTec Hemp Paper: The label consists of 100 percent hemp fiber. Hemp can be harvested up to three times a year, plantation trees only every seven years. Its fibers are five times longer than wood pulp, the material is particularly tear-resistant and can be recycled very often. 

DTM EcoTec Grass Paper: The natural grass fibers of the label gives the paper material its natural look and also reduce the amount of process water needed in the production process. The adhesive is an acrylic dispersion, permanent, solvent free and can be in direct food contact according to EU regulation No 10/2011. 

DTM EcoTec Paper Matte Nature: This paper label is made from 100 percent recycled backing from used label rolls. 

DTM EcoTec Poly Clear Gloss R90: It is a glossy clear poly label, which consists of 90 percent post-consumer recycled (also known as PCR) PET material. It features the same clarity, mechanical properties and printing characteristics as its non-PCR counterpart DTM Poly Clear Gloss. Using PCR material also establishes more recycling volume for the plastic production process and industry.  

In addition, the water-soluble adhesive of the aforementioned labels is below 0.01 percent. That means, it also passes the recycling process.  

Albion Bekolli, label specialist at DTM Print, explained: ‘To produce exceptional product labels for all kinds of applications you not only need advanced and resource-friendly print technology as integrated in our colour label printers but also high-quality material. 

‘Every product leaves a footprint on our planet and using label material that is environmentally-friendly and sustainable helps to keep it as small as possible.’