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Technical Guide

A Technical Guide to Adhesive Selection for Flexible Packaging

A roll of flexible packaging film ready for processing.

Flexible packaging is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing segments of the packaging industry, encompassing a vast array of materials and structures, from stand-up pouches for snacks to multi-layer films for medical devices. The performance of these structures is critically dependent on the adhesive used to laminate the various layers together. Selecting the right adhesive is a complex but crucial task that requires a deep understanding of the substrates, the intended application, and the desired performance characteristics of the final package. It is a decision that impacts everything from production line speed to the final product's shelf life and consumer safety.

The first consideration is always the substrates being bonded. Different plastic films like Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) have different surface energies and chemical compositions. Surface energy determines how well an adhesive can 'wet out' or spread across the substrate. Films like BOPP often have very low surface energy, making them inherently difficult to bond to. This may require either surface treatment of the film (like corona, flame, or plasma treatment) to increase its surface energy, or the use of a specialized adhesive formulated with specific polymers and wetting agents to create a strong, permanent bond on such challenging surfaces. The adhesive must be chemically compatible with all layers to prevent delamination or degradation over time.

Next, the end-use application dictates the required performance properties. A retort pouch for ready-to-eat meals, for instance, must withstand the high heat and pressure of the sterilization process (often up to 130°C). This demands a high-performance, cross-linking adhesive with exceptional thermal and chemical resistance. In contrast, packaging for frozen foods requires an adhesive that remains flexible and strong at sub-zero temperatures without becoming brittle. The adhesive must also provide the necessary barrier properties. For many food products, the packaging must provide a barrier against oxygen and moisture to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage. The adhesive layer, while thin, plays a vital role in the overall barrier performance of the laminate, and a poor choice can compromise the product's shelf life.

At Kubron Chemicals, we recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the diverse world of flexible packaging. Our technical experts work as partners with our clients, analyzing their specific needs to recommend the ideal adhesive. This involves a detailed discussion about the exact film structures, line speeds, application methods, and end-use requirements. Whether it's our Aquatack series for general-purpose lamination or a custom-developed formulation for a unique, high-performance application, we provide solutions that ensure bond integrity, product safety, and operational efficiency. Navigating the complexities of adhesive selection is our expertise, allowing you to deliver high-quality, reliable flexible packaging to your customers with confidence.