Wedoany.com Report on Mar 16th, Flint Group, a key supplier to the packaging industry in Germany, has secured RecyClass technical certification for its nitro-free surface printing ink technologies: VertixCode Star SC WB1U, MatrixCode Star SC WBU5, and MatrixCode Print WBU8. This certification, based on rigorous testing protocols, confirms that these inks exhibit enhanced chemical stability during high-temperature mechanical recycling processes. This contributes to the production of higher-quality recyclate, improves material recovery rates, and reduces waste.
The RecyClass PO Films Technical Committee commissioned testing activities aligned with the PE Film Recyclability Assessment Protocol. The test results demonstrate that packaging printed with these inks is fully compatible with existing European recycling processes for colored flexible PE, providing converters and brand owners with independent recyclability assurance and no negative impact on the quality of final pellets or films.
RecyClass is an initiative driven by the European plastics value chain. Its certification is based on comprehensive testing by accredited laboratories, including extrusion and quality assessments that examine odor, discoloration, and the mechanical properties of the recycled material film. Eddy Arbogast, Senior Director of R&D and Technology for Flexible Packaging at Flint Group, stated: "With the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), printers and converters must ensure packaging components align with recycling infrastructure and circular economy goals. Achieving RecyClass certification means our customers can meet these requirements with our nitro-free ink technology, simplify the recycling process, and confidently launch circular-ready packaging."
This certification solidifies Flint Group's position as a reliable partner in supporting the circular transition of the packaging industry, ensuring its technology continuously meets recyclability standards and contributes to a sustainable packaging sector. The application of nitro-free inks is expected to drive optimization in Europe's packaging recycling systems and reduce environmental burdens.
