In the current field of flexible packaging, polyurethane adhesives (PU adhesives) continue to hold a dominant position due to their outstanding performance, especially in high-performance packaging applications such as food and pharmaceuticals. Industry information mainly revolves around three dimensions: technological innovation, environmental protection regulations, and market demand.
Technology trend: High performance and functionalization
To meet the increasingly complex demands of packaging materials, the research and development of polyurethane adhesives is moving towards high performance and functionalization. For instance, resistance to media (acid, oil, and erosion by contents) and heat resistance (able to withstand high-temperature sterilization above 121℃) have become basic requirements for high-end products. Meanwhile, the bonding technology suitable for difficult-to-bond materials such as aluminum foil and galvanized film, as well as the flexible bonding technology that can be applied to lightweight and thin substrates, are also research hotspots, aiming to enhance packaging reliability and production efficiency.
Core driving force: Environmental protection and sustainable development
Global environmental protection regulations (such as VOCs emission limits) and consumers' demands for sustainability are the most powerful driving forces in the industry. This has prompted "solvent-free polyurethane adhesives" to become the absolute mainstream and a development consensus. Its 100% solid content and zero VOCs emissions perfectly meet the requirements of green production. Meanwhile, the technology of waterborne polyurethane adhesives is also constantly advancing. Although it differs from traditional products in some performance aspects, the demand for it in specific application fields is on the rise. In addition, the development and exploration of renewable bio-based raw materials is also a long-term research direction.
Market application: Diversification and Security
The flexible packaging market itself continues to grow, especially in the fields of e-commerce, food delivery, and ready-to-eat meals, driving the demand for high-performance adhesives. In addition to traditional composite packaging bags (such as retatable bags and stand-up bags), the application of polyurethane adhesives in emerging high-end fields such as lithium battery aluminum-plastic film is also becoming increasingly prominent. All these applications are based on absolute safety. Therefore, the low odor, low migration, and compliance with domestic and international food contact material regulations (such as FDA and GB) of the products are unwavering bottom lines.
In summary, the development of polyurethane adhesives in the flexible packaging industry is steadily advancing towards a more environmentally friendly, safer and higher-performance direction. Technological innovation closely revolves around market and regulatory demands and will continue to support the upgrading and transformation of the flexible packaging industry in the future.
