Comexi showcases solvent-free EB technology at Interpack

For the latest edition of Interpack, Comexi integrated printing, laminating, slitting, and laser technologies to demonstrate structures that reduced carbon footprints and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions while maintaining high-speed production. A primary highlight of the display was the use of electron beam (EB) flexographic inks, which eliminated the need for traditional lamination processes. This hybrid EB flexo system allowed for a recyclable polyethylene (PE) mono-material and monolayer solution.

By replacing the lamination stage with an overprint varnish (OPV) applied directly on the central impression (CI) press, the process lowered production costs and total material usage. The EB inks provided the high-definition graphics and surface protection required for industrial packaging without the use of solvents.

For the pet food sector, the company displayed a recyclable mono-material pouch made from biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP). The design utilised Comexi laser technology to create a horseshoe-shaped opening, which eliminated the requirement for plastic zippers. The pouch featured a resealable BOPP label for closure, a modification that increased production speeds and provided material savings.

The exhibit also featured circular detergent pouches containing over 40% post-consumer recycled (PCR) resin from household waste. Developed in collaboration with Dow, Mespack, and Reifenhauser, the MDO-PE and PE mono-material structure proved that high recycled content could be utilised without sacrificing shelf appeal. The pouches were presented in both reverse-printed laminated and surface-printed versions.

In addition to substrate innovations, the manufacturer introduced an integrated slitting solution featuring ESI electron beam technology. This system enabled crosslinking during the slitting process, which improved the surface resistance of PE materials to match the performance of virgin substrates. These technical refinements assisted brand owners in meeting European standards for recyclability and material reduction.