Sun Chemical secures RecyClass approval for four lamination adhesives

Sun Chemical has secured RecyClass approval for four of its SunLam solvent-free adhesives for use in European flexible polyethylene recycling streams.

RecyClass is a cross-industry initiative focused on advancing plastic packaging recyclability in Europe. Developed by Plastics Recyclers Europe, the platform provides scientifically backed design-for-recycling guidelines, protocols for recyclability testing and certification schemes that promote circularity in plastic packaging. Its approvals are increasingly seen as a key benchmark for validating packaging technologies against stringent European recycling requirements.

The four approved adhesives are SunLam ZA-1000 / ZB301, a solvent-free ultra-low monomer laminating adhesive for general and medium performance packaging that is fully compatible with PE flexibles recycling; SunLam XP-3288 / HA-601, a solvent-free ULM laminating adhesive with gas barrier properties that is fully compatible with colored PE flexibles recycling and has limited compatibility with natural PE flexibles recycling; SunLam QA8000 / QB-800, a solvent-free ULM laminating adhesive for medium to high performance packaging that is fully compatible with PE flexibles recycling; and SunLam NS-2033 / HA-376, a solvent-free laminating adhesive for general performance packaging that is fully compatible with PE flexibles recycling.

All four adhesives meet the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines when used under specified testing conditions.

The approvals form part of Sun Chemical's ongoing commitment to delivering a product portfolio that balances efficiency, sustainability and managed risk for its customers, developed through customer collaboration and R&D investment. The newly approved adhesives are solvent-free, delivering the added benefits of low energy use and VOC-free operation. The first three are part of Sun Chemical's ULM technology platform, which offers a fast route to market, eliminates the risk of PAA decay, enhances handling and improves industrial hygiene. Options are available for general to medium-high application performance, displaying excellent chemical resistance. Furthermore, one grade is based on proprietary gas barrier technology, providing additional barrier functionality to aid the industry's transition to mono-material PE/PE.

'Sun Chemical is excited to add these to our extensive lamination adhesives portfolio,' notes Nicolas Bétin, director of product strategy EMEA, packaging inks and materials at Sun Chemical. 'We continue to focus our efforts to ensure our customers have access to options that not only perform effectively but also meet stringent compliance requirements while supporting their sustainability goals.'