Technology | What to Watch
GETTING ALL THE MEDIA ATTENTION
WHEN IT COMES TO SUBSTRATES, ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS TEND TO GRAB THE LIMELIGHT, BUT THAT’S NOT THE WHOLE STORY WHEN IT COMES TO R+D FOR INKJET PRINTABLE MATERIALS - IS IT? WE FIND OUT FROM SOME OF THE SECTOR’S KEY PLAYERS.
Greener material introductions have been headline news for some time now, as the print sector in general - and large-format inkjet in particular - has shifted towards a more sustainable future. There was a point, not that long ago, when it seemed like a daily deluge of eco-friendly print substrates coming onto the market. That media frenzy has quietened down somewhat, though the new introductions we do see still tend to focus on environmental credentials. So, is that the continuing focus when it comes to R+D? Neil McCarthy, head of sales and marketing at Pyramid Display, says that environmental aspects are still the key driver, but that the public’s perception of plastic products in general is now pushing brands and stakeholders to look at fibrous based products.
“The general public still see plastic as
plastic, even if the plastic is an easily recyclable alternative to PVC, like Polypropylene. The question is also being asked that even if a PP is used, does it actually end up being recycled? Hence the move towards fibrous products, as all retailers have a paper and board recycling stream in place.”
He adds: “One of the other key drivers is brands deciding whether they want to specify products with recycled content or products that can actually be recycled. We are now splitting our evironmental offering between the two.”
EVEN IF A PP IS USED, DOES IT ACTUALLY END UP BEING RECYCLED? HENCE THE MOVE TOWARDS FIBROUS PRODUCTS
Antalis’ director of visual communications, Chris Green, says the company has actually observed a notable growth in the usage of sustainable plastics, particularly Polypropylene and that the demand for Latex-compatible print media has also experienced an uptake, saying: “Legislative measures are currently fuelling innovation, with the Plastic Packaging Tax, for instance, pushing for the adoption of eco- friendly alternatives to plastic. Additionally, new greenwashing legislation is in place to validate and verify product portfolios, with a focus on low- carbon products.” He continues: “Technological advancements
have resulted in a preference for Latex and resin inksets. As such, we at Antalis strive to offer media that is compatible with this ink technology. Additionally, there is a trend towards fibre- based products that can serve a broader range of applications, such as outdoor use. Our Katz and Libra outdoor compatible boards are prime examples of such products.” At Soyang Europe, the environment continues to be a key R+D consideration. “Our factory is constantly striving to create new materials for the open market in a more sustainable way. We currently have a wide range of PVC free banner and textiles made from recycled polyester, as well as a range of PVC free self-adhesive vinyl. Expanding our ranges this way offers alternatives to a wider range of customers and therefore broadening the
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