Chemical producer SABIC has entered into a strategic partnership with three in-mould labelling (IML) specialists to showcase the utilization of certified renewable polypropylene (PP) resins in high-quality mono-PP thin-wall container packaging. This collaboration aims to demonstrate that sustainable packaging can maintain the same level of quality, processability, safety, and convenience as traditional packaging materials, all while reducing environmental impact.

The innovative single-step IML technology plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. It seamlessly integrates label decoration into the injection molding process, making the label an integral part of the packaging itself. SABIC's dedicated label film types and high-definition printing technology offer an attractive and cost-effective decorative solution. Moreover, the resulting packaging, made from certified renewable PP resins, can be recycled within existing rigid PP recycling systems, contributing to a more circular and sustainable supply chain.

Abdullah Al-Otaibi, General Manager of ETP & Market Solutions at SABIC, emphasized the growing demand for in-mold labeled packaging across various consumer market segments. He highlighted that this flexible decoration technology, combined with responsibly sourced and certified renewable polymers from SABIC's TRUCIRCLE portfolio, has immense potential for creating fully recyclable mono-material packaging. Such packaging retains its shelf visibility and consumer appeal, all while helping manufacturers and brand owners reduce their environmental footprint and tackle plastic waste.

The label material for these IML containers comprises a biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPP) film produced by Taghleef, a global supplier of film solutions. This film is tailored to the BOPP process and utilizes SABIC-certified renewable resin. BOPP films are widely used in various applications, including food, dairy, beverages, home, beauty, and personal care packaging. Taghleef offers a range of transparent, white, and metalized PP label films, all of which can be produced using polymers with bio-based feedstock. These films can be customized for different printing techniques, textures, and visual appearances, enhancing brand differentiation and shelf visibility while maintaining a low environmental impact.

Monica Battistella, Sustainability Manager at Taghleef, underscored the value of these films in terms of printability, die-cutting, anti-static properties, and non-stick features. She stressed that the sustainability of SABIC's renewable polymers, combined with these film properties, adds value throughout the entire life cycle of labeled products, including end-of-life recycling.

Karydakis, a specialist in optimized printing techniques, ink formulations, and conversion technologies tailored to PP-based in-mould labels, supplies the final BOPP label film as part of this collaboration. Their advanced processes ensure high-quality labels that meet the needs of various packaging formats.

Giorgos Karydakis, General Manager at Karydakis IML S.A., expressed the importance of demonstrating the feasibility of bio-based materials for producing high-quality IML labels. The company offers a wide range of printing options for various containers, including digital watermarking with material information in line with sustainability initiatives like the European HolyGrail 2.0.

Kotronis Packaging, a medium-sized family business specializing in injection-molded containers for food products, plays a crucial role in this process. They use the IML labels to efficiently and seamlessly integrate labeling into the production of cups and tubs, streamlining the manufacturing process.

In conclusion, this collaborative initiative showcases the potential of certified renewable polypropylene resins in creating sustainable and high-quality packaging solutions. By combining innovative IML technology, responsible sourcing, and recycling capabilities, the partnership between SABIC and its collaborators aims to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging options while reducing the industry's carbon footprint. The IML solution will be exhibited at Taghleef's booth during Labelexpo in Brussels, highlighting its potential impact on the packaging industry.