INX International has added a valuable new universal lamination system to its sustainable inks portfolio. Introduced at FORUM INFOFLEX earlier this month, Innova Plus NCF nitrocellulose-free flexographic inks deliver the same trusted performance across all flexible packaging solutions as Innova Plus does but without the nitrocellulose, making it ideal for recycling purposes.
Developed for adhesive lamination, Innova Plus NCF is purpose-driven to meet and support the growing demand for inks compatible with mono-material packaging. Flexible packaging is evolving rapidly with new regulatory initiatives in Europe and the United States, and wider attention is being directed to flexographic inks systems, which offer exceptional performance without compromising recycling and sustainability goals.
Since recycling standards are regularly being updated - especially in Europe - nitrocellulose-based inks are attracting more attention for their perceived impact on recycling processes and material recovery. Ink represents less than 1% of a package’s total weight but it can enable more effective recycling, says Renee Schouten, VP of marketing for INX.
With packaging initiatives focusing on recyclability and material recovery in the United States, she believes it encourages brand owners and converters to design packaging with end-of-life outcomes in mind. Designing for recyclability requires every layer - from film to adhesive to ink -must work together. This is how a next generation solution like Innova Plus NCF benefits those looking to improve their circular packaging goals.
“States like California, Colorado, Maine, and Oregon have already passed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It’s only a matter of time before others follow,” explains Schouten. “Similar EPR efforts are taking place on a global level, such as Europe’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, and these regulations are becoming more strict. Now is the time to act to get ahead of the regulatory measures. Innova Plus NCF gives you the power to do so.
“Innova Plus NCF inks deliver exceptional performance benefits,” she adds. “This includes superior print quality, excellent adhesion, and reliable consistency across various substrates and packaging formats. Engineered specifically for adhesive lamination, these inks provide robust bond strength and stability while maintaining clarity and vibrancy even under demanding production conditions. With fast-drying capabilities and resistance to common solvents and chemicals, Innova Plus NCF ensures efficient and trouble-free printing operations to help converters achieve outstanding results while meeting sustainability objectives.”