PACKAGING “Our NC-free
alternatives support effective packaging recycling by offering greater chemical stability at higher temperatures.”
F
lint Group, a supplier of inks and coatings for the global print and packaging industry, has reinforced its commitment to Nitrocellulose-free (NC-free) ink systems in Europe. This packaging recycling in alignment with the newly updated Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
PPWR mandates that by 2030, all packaging must be 100 percent recyclable, setting clear targets for recycled content. It also underscores the importance of ensuring that every component of the packaging value chain integrates seamlessly with recycling infrastructure.
In a newly published blog, Flint Group highlights the latest regulatory guidelines (NC)-based inks degrade during mechanical recycling with the potential to contaminate recyclate.
Paul Winstanley, vice president of technology and product management at Flint Group, said, “The recycling infrastructure represents initiatives such as PPWR, and whilst NC-based printing inks are recyclable, NC-free solutions offer improved compatibility with the mechanical recycling process. Additionally, under PPWR, producers, including packaging Responsibility (EPR) schemes, which impose fees based on how easily their packaging materials can be recycled. Therefore, the ink industry is proactively developing new solutions to improve the ability to recycle packaging materials.
“Our NC-free alternatives support effective packaging recycling by offering greater chemical stability at higher temperatures. By prioritising the development of NC-free chemistries, particularly PU-based alternatives, we align with evolving regulations, ensure that our inks do not disturb the usable material recovered.”
Stephen Butler, European product manager, already have market-proven PU-based products delivering outstanding results for our customers. Our comprehensive portfolio of NC-free inks is successfully used in real
FLINT GROUP IN EUROPE COMMITS TO INK SYSTEMS FREE OF NITROCELLULOSE TO ENHANCE FLEXIBLE PACKAGING RECYCLING
production environments, producing consistent high-quality print at high speeds. This proves compromise performance for sustainability. “Our focus remains on delivering
sustainable, regulatory-compliant technologies that anticipate future needs as regulations continue to evolve. By switching to our proven contributing to more effective and economically viable recycling systems.”
Mr. Winstanley concludes, “Our NC-free developments highlight our commitment to toward sustainability while maintaining the highest standards of print quality and performance.”
(NC-free) chemistries, as well as traditional Nitrocellulose-based formulations. These ink
ranges are suitable for surface and reverse printing, as well as lamination printing, delivering high colour strength for inks and high-opacity for whites.
For more information on PPWR updates and read the Flint Group blog, “Alignment with the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR): Our commitment to high-performance alternatives to Nitocellulose-based inks” packaging printing solutions, visit http://www.
flintgrp.com/segments/flexible-packaging- eu/nc-free-technology-for-flexible- packaging/
Flint Group
www.flintgrp.com FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS | MARCH 2025 33
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