A Guide to Choosing Adhesives for Labels
Navigating the Stickiness
A Guide to Choosing the Right Adhesive
Self-adhesive labels may seem like a simple companion for a product or packaging, but behind their appearance lies an array of adhesives, each designed with a specific purpose. Choosing the correct adhesive for labels is paramount as it directly influences the functionality and suitability of the labelled product.
The correct adhesive ensures secure bonding, preventing issues like label detachment during handling or transportation. It also contributes to the durability of labels, allowing them to withstand diverse environmental conditions such as temperature variations, moisture exposure, and chemical contact.
Tailoring the adhesive to your specific application also addresses considerations like removability, permanence, and compliance with regulatory standards. Ultimately, the careful selection of adhesives not only safeguards the integrity of the label but also enhances brand image, reflecting a commitment to quality and attention to detail.
The Different Adhesives Available
Here we ‘peel back’ the layers to printed labels and explore the different adhesives available, taking a look at the characteristics that define each variant and the applications they are suited best to.
Permanent Adhesive
Purpose: Provides a strong, permanent bond to surfaces, making it difficult to remove the label without damaging it.
Applications: Product labels, shipping labels, asset labels, etc.
Removable Adhesive:
Purpose: Allows the label to be removed easily without leaving residue or damaging the surface.
Applications: Temporary labels, promotional labels, pricing labels, card seal labels, etc.
Repositionable Adhesive:
Purpose: Allows for easy repositioning of the label without losing its adhesive properties.
Applications: Labels on products with frequently changing information, such as food containers, retail displays, temporary branding/markings, or inventory management.
Freezer-Grade Adhesive:
Purpose: Designed to withstand low temperatures, ensuring that the label remains adhered in freezing conditions.
Applications: Labels on products stored in freezers or cold storage.
High-Temperature Adhesive:
Purpose: Resistant to high temperatures, preventing labels from melting or losing adhesion in hot environments.
Applications: Labels for products that undergo high-temperature processes, like electronics or industrial equipment.
Water-Resistant or Waterproof Adhesive:
Purpose: Provides resistance to water, preventing labels from peeling or disintegrating when exposed to moisture.
Applications: Labels for products used outdoors, in wet environments, or in contact with liquids.
Acid-Free Adhesive:
Purpose: Designed to be non-reactive and not cause damage to sensitive materials over time.
Applications: Archival labels for documents, artwork, or historical artifacts.
UV-Resistant Adhesive:
Purpose: Resists damage from ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, preventing fading or deterioration of the label due to sunlight.
Applications: Labels for outdoor use, such as on packaging or signage.
Security Adhesive:
Purpose: Includes features such as tamper-evident or destructible materials to prevent unauthorised removal or tampering of labels.
Applications: Security labels on high-value items, sensitive documents, or pharmaceutical products.
Biodegradable Adhesive:
Purpose: Designed to break down over time, minimising ecological impact.
Applications: A sustainable solution for a variety of labelling applications such as food, cosmetics and gifts for environmentally conscious producers.
The Do’s When Choosing Your Adhesive
Here are some ideas to take into consideration when choosing the best adhesive:
Know Your Surface
Understand the surface where your labels will be applied. Different adhesives work better on specific materials, so consider whether you're sticking to paper, plastic, glass, or other surfaces.
Consider Application Temperature
Some adhesives perform better in specific temperature ranges. Ensure that the adhesive you choose can withstand the environmental conditions your labels will face during application and use.
Think About Durability
Consider the intended lifespan of your labels. If they'll be exposed to harsh weather, chemicals, or frequent handling, opt for a durable adhesive that can withstand these conditions.
Tailor to the Environment
If your labels will be used in environments with extreme temperatures, humidity, or UV exposure, choose an adhesive that is formulated to endure such conditions.
Select the Right Adhesive Type
There are various adhesive types, including permanent, removable, and repositionable. Choose the one that aligns with your application needs. For example, use a removable adhesive for temporary promotions.
Environmentally Friendly Options
Consider eco-friendly adhesives if sustainability is a priority for your brand. These adhesives are designed to minimise environmental impact.
The Don’ts When Choosing Your Adhesive
Here are some of the don’ts when choosing the best adhesive:
Neglect Surface Preparation:
Failing to properly clean and prepare the surface before applying labels can compromise adhesion. Ensure surfaces are free from dust, grease, and other contaminants.
Assume One Size Fits All
Not all adhesives work universally. Avoid assuming that a single adhesive type will suit all applications. Tailor your choice based on the specific requirements of each project.
Overlook Environmental Factors
Don't ignore the environmental conditions your labels will face. Failure to account for factors like humidity, temperature, and exposure to chemicals can lead to adhesive failure.
Forget About Regulations
If your product or label needs to comply with specific regulations or standards, ensure that the adhesive used meets these requirements.
Common Issues to be Aware of
Peeling and Lifting
Insufficient adhesive strength or improper surface preparation can lead to labels peeling or lifting over time.
Residue and Staining
Some adhesives may leave behind residue or cause staining, especially when labels are removed. Consider the cleanliness of removal when choosing adhesives.
Incompatibility with Printing Techniques
Certain adhesives may not be compatible with certain printing methods. Verify compatibility to ensure optimal print quality.
How do you know which adhesive is best for your products?
Choosing the correct adhesive will depend on the specific conditions and requirements of the application. If you are unsure of which adhesive suits your product then please speak to one of our experienced team. We will be able to guide you through the process of choosing the correct adhesive to ensure that your label performs effectively over time and can provide samples for you to test, as required.
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