Madico introduces cryogenic labelstocks

Madico Graphic Films, a supplier of specialist pressure sensitive coated film products for durable label applications, has announced the introduction of two white polyester films, designed specifically for cryogenic labeling applications. The new labelstocks are suitable for direct immersion into liquid nitrogen at –196degC and offer a cohesive bond high enough to withstand thermal shock, eliminating the problem of delamination caused as a result.

As such, Madico’s cryogenic labelstocks deliver improved benefits for clinical laboratory, biomedical research, and other scientific environments by affording reliable label identification of plastic and glass vessels that undergo long-term cryogenic storage in liquid nitrogen or deep-freezing. Madico has introduced two 50 micron variants for the laboratory market; one of which is designed for desktop laser printing, and the other for thermal transfer printing with resin based ribbons.

Another specific advantage of Madico’s cryogenic films is said to be the enhanced automation achieved by sourcing information directly from a database or other software application via connection to a desktop PC. This avoids traditional labeling methods involving use of a marker pen and, as a result, virtually eliminates the common eventuality of human error caused by illegible marking or mislabeling. At the same time users are able to print extremely minute batch and barcodes required on certain small vials and test-tubes, while ensuring 100 percent clarity of information is maintained.

Andy Voss, managing director, Madico Graphic Films, said: ‘Within laboratory environments it is critical that labels identifying receptacles used to preserve blood, reproductive cells and other biological material, stay in place and that the adhesive doesn’t delaminate from the film. Secondly, the information contained in such labels must be 100 percent correct and allow no room for human error or illegibility. Failure to ensure either one of these prerequisites could easily be life-threatening. These new labelstocks have been designed and tested to meet both requirements and, as a result, offer a giant leap in cryogenic product identification.’

Madico’s new films have been independently tested in accordance with the strict criteria of Southampton University’s specialist cryogenic department.