Thermal Transfer Printing Methods, Flexographic, and UV Inkjet Printing Methods can be chosen to print transparent barcode labels.
Transparent barcode labels can be defined as specialized synthetic labels. Typically, they are made of polyester, polypropylene, or vinyl and allow the background surface to be visible so that essential barcode information can easily be scanned. Their special composition makes them bear harsh environmental conditions. So, these labels have extraordinary resistance to moisture, heat, and chemical exposure. Due to their incomparable functionality, they are widely used for product packaging across multiple industries like cosmetics, electronics, pharmaceuticals, etc.
Material Used in the Manufacturing of Transparent Barcode Labels
The following types of materials are used in the making process of Transparent Barcode Labels.
Material Used for Making Substrate
The main purpose of using labels is that they must resist environmental conditions while being stuck on different surface types for a very long time. Along with it, barcode scannability is also another important factor before selecting materials for making transparent labels.
By keeping in view the applications, typically polypropylene (PP), polyester (PET), and vinyl are used to manufacture transparent barcode labels. As polypropylene (PP) is a lightweight and flexible material along with providing resistance to water and moisture, it is very cost-effective for high-volume packaging. Polyester (PET) is extremely durable and tear-resistant, so due to the presence of this, the transparent barcode labels can bear high heat, chemicals, and UV exposure. Also, the presence of polyester (PET) makes the labels suitable for industrial applications along with labeling electronics and machinery.
Besides this, vinyl is a highly flexible and stretchable material that makes transparent labels suitable for application on curved or irregular surfaces, such as bottles, tubes, etc. To achieve aestheticism, Acetate films are used in manufacturing to offer ultra-clear and glossy surfaces that are less durable but visually stunning.
Adhesive Layer Material
The adhesive layer is an integral part of manufacturing the labels because it makes the labels stuck on the surface. So, it is very critical to choose the adhesive type based on your requirements. For example, Acrylic-based Adhesives are the best for general and outdoor usage, because they are transparent and UV-resistant and offer long-lasting adhesiveness, and the label does not turn yellow over time.
For industrial and medical applications, a super strong and durable adhesive layer is required. So, Solvent-based adhesive is best for inducing an adhesive layer in labels, so that labels can withstand chemicals, water, and temperature extremes. Moreover, Hot-melt Adhesives are the best for short-term and indoor applications because these adhesives are best to resist minimal heat and chemical amounts.
Select Ink and Printing Method
To make the scannability of transparent labels, selecting the ink type and printing method is very critical. Because only with the proper combination of ink and printing method, high contrast printing can be ensured. UV-curable Inks, Resin-based ribbons, and Eco-solvent Inks are available in different ink types.
While Thermal Transfer Printing Methods, Flexographic, and UV Inkjet Printing Methods can be chosen to print transparent barcode labels.
Conclusion
In short, by knowing one’s requirements about the required type of the proper material type for substrate, adhesive layer, ink type, and printing method, one can select the best transparent barcode labels that fulfill the labeling requirements in the right direction.