Siegwerk introduces Cirkit Oxybar White functional barrier ink

Siegwerk has announced the launch of Cirkit Oxybar White, a functional technology engineered for film-based packaging applications. The system targets converters and brand owners looking to simplify flexible packaging laminates and eliminate traditional, hard-to-recycle barrier materials.

The unique formulation expands on Siegwerk's newly introduced "Barrier Inks" category, establishing a framework where protective performance is transformed from a dedicated structural material into a functional property of the ink itself. This portfolio follows the company's previous release of Cirkit Greasebar White, which integrated a grease barrier with white ink functionality. By building on this shared platform, Cirkit Oxybar White allows converters to turn standard backing white into an active functional layer, applying a bright white opaque finish and gas protection inline simultaneously.

According to Gilles Le Moigne, Head of Circular Economy Coatings at Siegwerk, the technology marks a fundamental shift in circular design: “With Cirkit Oxybar White, we are redefining what an ink can do. By combining oxygen barrier and white ink performance in a single layer, we eliminate complexity and open new possibilities for circular packaging design.”

Conventional packaging structures typically require separate production steps and separate layers for oxygen protection and white opacity, adding material weight and processing costs. The new single-layer solution delivers a high oxygen barrier performance with an Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) of less than 5-cc/m²/day at 50% relative humidity, while maintaining a premium print finish. This allows for the replacement of conventional barrier materials like EVOH, PVdC, aluminum foil, and metallised films in application segments that do not require additional water vapor transmission barriers.

The water-based chemistry is optimised to support design-for-recycling and resource efficiency through mono-material simplification. For converting operations, the formulation supports high productivity by enabling higher press speeds compared to standard water-based coatings when running on existing gravure and flexo equipment.

The integration also delivers clear mechanical and operational advantages on the shop floor. The white pigmentation serves as a visual quality control mechanism, enabling operators to immediately verify coating coverage across the substrate. By achieving barrier and design in a single step, the system reduces technical risk, minimises material usage, and lowers total applied system costs by cutting down the number of required structural layers and machine passes.