Cold transfer decoration applied on HDPE tube by Leonhard Kurz approved by RecyClass
23 Nov 2021

Leonhard Kurz ‘Cold Transfer with EP Platina 3015’ is fully compatible with the European rigid high-density polyethylene (HDPE) stream recycling. Both the sorting behaviour and recycling compatibility have been positively assessed by independent testing.

With the initial successful testing of a cold transfer technology with 30% surface coverage[1], Leohnard Kurz decided to additionally test 70% surface coverage of an HDPE tube. The tube ‘EP Platina 3015’ submitted for this study was provided by EPL Ltd. with its HDPE cap on and has already been tested by RecyClass[2]. Leohnard Kurz applied direct printing via cold transfer technology on the white-coloured tube, representing a total of less than 0.7% by weight compared to the overall weight of the packaging.

Following the RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol[3], Suez.Circpack® demonstrated  that 70% surface coverage of cold transfer does not prevent the sorting behaviour of the HDPE tube, which is correctly sorted within the HDPE rigid recycling stream. The compatibility with recycling was later assessed by laboratory analysis of the ‘Cold Transfer with EP Platina 3015’, which carried according to the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for HDPE containers[4] show that the technology conforms to the current European coloured HDPE rigid recycling stream. This compatibility is submitted to certain design conditions[5], which among others, determine a limit for the surface coverage of the cold transfer technology.

This approval on decorative technology for HDPE packaging is yet another example of how innovation and adapting different design elements in line with the recyclability principles contribute to improving plastic packaging’s circularity.

 

[1] RecyClass Recyclability Approval: Leonhard Kurz InLine Foiling (30% coverage)

[2] RecyClass Recyclability Approval: EPL Platina 3015

[3] RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol

[4] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for HDPE containers

[5] Full design conditions available here: Leonhard Kurz ‘Cold Transfer with EP Platina 3015’

 

About Leonhard Kurz

The KURZ Group is a global leader in thin film technology. KURZ develops and manufactures decorative and functional layers applied to carrier foil for a wide range of industries, from the packaging and printing industry through to the automotive, electronics, card and textile sectors. KURZ offers a comprehensive portfolio of products for surface finishing, decoration, labeling, and counterfeit protection, rounded off by an extensive range of stamping machines and stamping tools. The company is also continuously investing in new technologies and developing innovative solutions for integrating functionality into surfaces. The KURZ Group has more than 5,500 employees at over 30 sites worldwide and produces under standardized quality and environmental standards in Europe, Asia, and the USA. A global network of subsidiaries, representatives and sales offices ensures short paths and individual, on-site consulting.

Contact: www.kurz-world.com

 

About RecyClass

RecyClass is a comprehensive cross-industry initiative that works to advance plastic packaging recyclability and to establish a harmonized approach towards recycled content calculation and its traceability in Europe. Activities within RecyClass include the development of Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing of innovative materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling guidelines and the free online tool. RecyClass offers Recyclability Certifications and Recycled Content Traceability Certification for plastic packaging.

Contact: Alice.Wallon@plasticsrecyclers.eu,  www.recyclass.eu

 

RecyClass Recyclability Approvals

RecyClass issues two types of Recyclability Approvals – Technology Approvals and Product Approvals. These are issued upon conducted testing in accordance with one of the established Recyclability Evaluation Protocols. Testing results are incorporated in the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines and the Online Tool. The full list of approved Technologies and Products can be found on the RecyClass website.