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Label Construction Explained
Pressure-sensitive labels are the most widely-used media type for the identification of all types of items, from shipping cartons to automobiles. A label's construction can vary significantly depending on the intended application and environment. Does it need to go into a freezer? Does the label need to be repositionable? How long will the label be exposed outdoors? The construction of a pressure-sensitive label consists of a number of layers, each with its specific function and qualities designed for the intended application.
Label Liner
The label's liner acts as the carrier for the label. It stays with the label and protects the adhesive layer until the label is ready to be applied to the surface. The release coating on the liner is what allows the label to be removed from the liner.
Liners are available in different thicknesses – generally a thicker liner is used for sheeted and fanfolded labels to help them maintain their lay-flat characteristics.
| Liner Examples | Application |
|---|---|
| Paper | Standard liner type most commonly used |
| Synthetic | Used when cleanroom properties are required |
Label Adhesive
The label's adhesive is the layer that enables the label to bond to the intended surface when pressure is applied. Selecting the correct adhesive is dependent on the intended surface the label is to be applied to as well as the environmental conditions the label will be exposed to. As the wrong adhesive will result in label falling off the applied surface, choosing the right type of adhesive is critical to the label's success in its intended application.
Adhesives are available in a range of adhesion strengths, including permanent and removable/repositionable. Adhesives can also meet certain qualifications for approval in an intended application, such as FDA approval for food or skin contact.
| Adhesive Examples | Application |
|---|---|
| Rubber | Most commonly used in short-term or everyday indoor labeling applications |
| Acrylic | Has advanced chemical, heat and UV resistance, different formulations can be used for harsher environment application indoor and outdoor |
| Silicone | Recommended for applications with extreme temperature requirements |
Label Substrate
Also known as the "label face stock", the substrate is the material that is the base for the construction of the label. The substrate is usually what is used to classify the type of label (paper labels, polyester labels, etc.) The label substrate provides the basis for printing, coverage, and resistance to abrasion and moisture.
Substrates are available in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and other qualities. They can range from opaque white to clear. The most common label substrates are listed below:
| Substrate Examples | Application |
|---|---|
| Paper | Most common, used for a wide variety of indoor labeling applications including shipping, package and carton labels |
| Vinyl | Excellent tear resistance as well as resistance to UV and moisture, minimal heat resistance |
| Polypropylene | Highly durable and conformable with excellent tensile strength, good for labels that require an extended use life |
| Polyester | Excellent for harsh environments, very resistant to UV, abrasion, moisture and decay |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical resistance and printability, good indoors and outdoors |
| Polystyrene | Excellent electrical insulating properties, as well as moisture resistance |
| Polyimide | Also known as Kapton®, ideal for high temperature applications, particularly suited for labeling printed circuit boards |
Label Topcoat
Topcoats are treatments applied to the surface of the substrate, usually during the substrate manufacturing or converting process. Typically available in a glossy or matte finish, topcoats primarily increase the ability of the ink to adhere to the label substrate. Certain topcoats can also enhance the label's resistance to UV, moisture, chemicals or abrasion.
| Topcoat Examples | Application |
|---|---|
| Solvent-based | Most commonly used, provided the greatest range of print receptiveness across all mediums |
| Water-based | More environmentally-friendly, used in more specialized applications |
Label Over-Laminates
Over-laminates, varnishes and specialty coatings are optional elements that are used to enhance the label's strength, appearance, printability and/or protection from moisture, chemicals, UV and abrasion.
| Over-Laminate Examples | Application |
|---|---|
| Film over-laminate | Can be applied after printing to seal in and protect the printed surface |
| Varnish | Commonly used to add abrasion resistance, available in matte or gloss finishes |
| Specialty coatings | Can be applied to the entire surface of the label or to specific areas to enhance the appearance or performance of the label |
