Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 29, RecyClass, a cross-industry European initiative promoting plastic packaging recyclability, has granted full approval to a new generation of nitrocellulose-free inks for surface and reverse printing on flexible polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) packaging. Testing demonstrated that these inks do not interfere with established mechanical recycling processes.

The programme examined four polyurethane (PU)-based ink technologies alongside one acrylic-based solution.

The evaluation was conducted by RecyClass's PO Films Technical Committee according to the official Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE films. Five ink formulations were examined: four polyurethane (PU)-based and one acrylic-based, plus an additional polyvinyl butyral (PVB)-based variant. Results showed no adverse impact on the colour, quality, or mechanical properties of recycled pellets and films. No increase in volatile emissions occurred during high-temperature processing, and colour stability remained unchanged.

RecyClass has therefore confirmed that both PU-based and PVB-based inks are fully compatible with current PE and PP recycling streams across Europe. The organisation will update its Design for Recycling Guidelines to incorporate these findings and formally recognise the approved technologies.

To maintain optimal recycling performance, RecyClass continues to recommend that total ink coverage on flexible packaging stays below 5% of the overall weight.

RecyClass operates as the recognised audit and certification scheme under the Circular Plastics Alliance and is expected to cover more than 60% of Europe's plastics recycling capacity by 2025. Its standards serve as a widely accepted international reference for circular plastic solutions.

The approval expands the range of printing options available to brand owners and converters seeking to improve the recyclability of flexible packaging while preserving print quality and functionality.