Zeller+Gmelin showcasing new low migration inks

09.26.17

The formulation of the new Uvaflex-FCM-Y81 ink series completely dispenses with BPA-containing raw materials.

Zeller+Gmelin GmbH & Co. KG is presenting several newly developed ink systems at Labelexpo Europe 2017. One focus is directed on the growing segment of low-migration printing inks. In view of the ongoing tightening of legal requirements, the choice of suitable printing inks and varnish systems is becoming more and more important in order to be able to produce legally compliant food packaging and labels.

By using new raw materials and technology, Zeller+Gmelin has developed the latest generation of FCM UV-flexographic printing inks, which offer a higher level of security in terms of migration and feature a low odor.

The Uvaflex-FCM-Y81 series achieves a significant reduction of substances critical to migration. Primarily, the use of special multi-functional initiators with a comparatively high molecular weight of approximately 1000 Dalton considerably minimizes the risk of migration. The molecular weight of conventional photoinitiators is usually several times lower (400 Dalton or lower).

For this reason, the new initiators feature a much lower potential for migration. In addition, the formulations contain specific polymerizable groups that participate in the curing and are firmly incorporated in the chemical structure of the printing ink film.

Moreover, the formulation of the new Uvaflex-FCM-Y81 ink series completely dispenses with BPA-containing raw materials. Therefore, the inks also meet the requirements of the current Nestlé Guidance Note dated September 2016.

The new FCM-Y81 series is universally applicable on paper and film covering different applications such as self-adhesive labels, shrink sleeves, in-mold labels, wraparound labels, flexible packaging and folding cartons.