Dow Corning, a global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, exhibited at Labelexpo Europe 2015 advanced silicone coating and adhesive materials that address major macro trends in the pressure sensitive industry: the increasing use of thin-liner substrates to leverage cost and sustainability advantages and the industry’s effort to minimize dependence on costly and volatile platinum supplies.

Supporting these trends are Dow Corning’s newly launched Syl-Off® EM 7945 Coating, the company’s new water-based silicone emulsion developed for off-line coating of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films; Syl-Off® EM 7934 and Syl-Off® EM 7935 Coatings for filmic liners; and the Dow Corning Syl-Off® Advantage Series of solventless release coatings (including new Syl-Off® SL 411 Coating) for bulk roll labels.

“Dow Corning’s proactive approach to supporting important macro trends impacting the pressure sensitive adhesives industry helps our customers solve their toughest labelling challenges – whether they involve uncertainty in the global supply chain, demand for higher performance materials or pressure to lower costs and boost sustainability,” said Meike Wesseling, packaging market manager, Europe at Dow Corning. “Our ongoing investment in research and development not only addresses the ever-changing market landscape, but also delivers innovations ahead of the curve so customers can gain a competitive business and technological advantage.”

Demands to reduce material waste and support sustainability through weight reduction are driving greater use of filmic materials for release liners and facestocks. Although strong, flexible PET and other films offer the opportunity for significant downgauging vs. paper, they require specialized release coatings such as Dow Corning’s Syl-Off EM 7934 and Syl-Off EM 7935 Coatings, which aid in the production of filmic liners. The Syl-Off EM 7934 Coating offers superior anchorage for off-line and in-line coating during film manufacturing, while Syl-Off EM 7935 Coating is specially engineered for the in-line production of polyester film substrates. Further, Dow Corning has launched today Syl-Off EM 7945 Coating, an advanced new silicone technology that significantly strengthens its portfolio of high-performance silicone solutions for off-line filmic production.

Facing continued high prices and volatility of platinum supplies worldwide, manufacturers are searching for innovative ways to minimize dependence on this solventless release coating catalyst – without impacting performance. New Syl-Off SL 411 Coating, featured at Dow Corning’s stand, is optimized for low platinum levels while providing reliable, high-speed performance for roll label manufacturing. It offers fast curing and extremely stable release performance. Designed for glassine and super calendered kraft (SCK) substrates, this product is an excellent choice for pressure-sensitive label stock, food packaging and industrial release papers.