Laser coding for compostable Natureflex films

Following its launch in 2002, Futamura’s NatureFlex range of films has been adopted by several brand owners. The materials are designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible packaging. Not only are they derived from renewable cellulose, they also meet all the global standards for industrial composting, including BS EN13432, and are certified home compostable. 

 

Domino’s assessment of the NatureFlex films proved that laser coding can be achieved on the compostable flexible films. The films achieved a clean, crisp white code. This means that customers can add simple codes onto the films such as best before dates and batch codes as well as more complex designs and messaging including graphics and scannable 2D codes.  

 

Dr Stefan Stadler, team lead at the Domino Laser Academy, said: ‘We spend a lot of time analyzing new packaging materials. We predict that, in the future, requests for compostable solutions will become more prominent. We want to ensure that we are ready to advise customers and provide a solution for these new materials. 

 

‘Based on our analysis, we can see that NatureFlex films can be coded effectively with the DI20i when operating at very high production speeds, when required.’ 

 

Amaia Cowan, business development manager at Futamura, added: ‘The results from the project are very positive. Brand owners are always looking at innovative ways to communicate with their consumers on our renewable and compostable films. This new method of coding will enable the inclusion of a simple message to consumers on the film itself, without the need for printing.’ 

 

Futamura’s NatureFlex films are used in over 100 countries worldwide. The films have become part of the packaging, labeling or overwrap for some of the world’s best-known brands across a wide variety of everyday consumer goods from fresh produce to tea and coffee, sweets to cereal bars and personal care.