Linerless Label Adhesive System for Recyclable Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing commercial labels and receipts are costly to manufacture, non-recyclable due to the use of non-recyclable materials in the liner, and do not adhere well to recyclable containers or untreated plastic. Additionally, the adhesives used are not safe for human consumption if they come into contact with food or other consumables.
Innovation Solution
The development of a linerless labeling system that includes a substrate for containers, a repositionable adhesive for easy application, and a remoistenable adhesive made from food-grade materials such as polyvinyl alcohol, dextrin, and humectants like glycerin or propylene glycol. This adhesive system is dry until moistened, forming a permanent bond with the substrate and ensuring tamper-proof closure when applied to containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a liner component is used in labels, then the label adheres well to various surfaces, but the manufacturing cost increases and recyclability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the liner component from the label structure entirely. Instead of using a traditional liner with adhesive coating, the invention applies adhesive directly to the face stock (paper or plastic substrate), eliminating the need for a separate liner layer and its associated release coating mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the adhesive layer and face stock into a single integrated structure. The adhesive is applied directly to the face stock substrate, merging what were previously separate layers (adhesive coating on liner, then liner removal, then adhesive application) into a streamlined two-component system.
2Reliability
If a liner component is used in labels, then the label adheres well to various surfaces, but the recyclability of the container is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the liner component that was previously causing recyclability issues. By applying adhesive directly to the face stock without requiring a liner, the design removes the non-recyclable material that contaminated the container during the labeling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates the need to discard the liner component. Since the adhesive is applied directly to the face stock, there is no separate liner to remove or discard, allowing the entire label assembly to be removed from the container without leaving non-recyclable residues.
3Ease of operation
If repositionable adhesive is used without a liner, then the label can be easily applied, but the adhesion strength and permanence are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic adhesive system that transitions from a temporary/repositionable state to a permanent state. The adhesive begins as a repositionable formulation that allows for easy application and adjustment, then undergoes a chemical or physical transformation (such as solvent evaporation or polymer crosslinking) to achieve permanent, strong adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in adhesive parameters (such as viscosity, tackiness, or chemical reactivity) to achieve both ease of application and permanent bonding. The adhesive formulation is designed to have lower viscosity and higher tackiness during application for easy positioning, then undergoes parameter changes (drying, curing, or chemical reaction) to achieve strong permanent adhesion.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional adhesives are used on linerless labels, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but food safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition and parameters of the adhesive formulation to meet food safety requirements. The adhesive is formulated with food-grade materials that are non-toxic and safe for contact with food products, while maintaining the cost-effectiveness of direct application without liners.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed solution achieves a cost-effective, recyclable, and food-safe labeling system that adheres well to various surfaces, including recyclable containers, and provides a tamper-proof seal when applied to packages, enhancing packaging security and compliance with food safety regulations.
Implementation Method 1
a remoistenable adhesive that includes predetermined amounts of polyvinyl alcohol, dextrin, and at least one humectant
Implementation Method 2
at least one humectant, and wherein the adhesives are deposited on the label prior to attaching the label to the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A labeling system for use with containers, comprising at least one linerless label, wherein the at least one linerless label is adapted to receive printing thereon; a substrate for receiving the label and to which the label becomes permanently bound after the label has been attached to the substrate; a first adhesive, wherein the first adhesive is a repositionable adhesive; a second adhesive, wherein the second adhesive is a remoistenable adhesive that includes predetermined amounts of polyvinyl alcohol, dextrin, and at least one humectant, and wherein the adhesives are deposited on the label prior to attaching the label to the substrate.