Page 22 - Plastics News August 2020

materials to form parts with 100% barrier protection,
usually in a structure like PP/EVOH/PP. Adding
decoration to barrier films creates new avenues for part
designers and product marketers, especially in mass-
customization environments like supermarkets or
specialty food stores. In-mold labeling for
thermoforming (IML-T) offers considerable weight-
reduction opportunities versus similar injection molding
of labeled parts. Because the label is integrated into the
forming process, IML-T reduces capital expenditures and
floorspace, while providing a wider range of graphic
options associated with label printing. And because the
material is not preprinted, there is no gas emission from
print colors during heating, and the skeletal sheet can be
easily granulated for reuse without contamination.
The latest developments in IML-T now include the ability sortation—are driving the need for packages that can be
to make labels from polymer substrate, paper, or even easily separated when using two or more materials.
cardboard. Recycling concerns—especially

August 2020 20 Plastics News