Labeling Film

Labeling Film for a Wide Range of Applications

Labeling film is manufactured from optimont® Laserfilm. This BO-PET-based film offers high mechanical and chemical resistance and is therefore suitable for many applications in demanding environments, both indoors and outdoors. Thanks to a double-sided matte coating, the labeling film can be printed without difficulty using various printing processes. Prints produced with laser printers are waterproof and can be used outdoors without additional protection such as lamination or similar measures.

Laser Film as a Labeling Film

The term “laser film” originates from the original use of optimont® Laserfilm. The film was developed to simplify the production of positive films. In this process, a positive copy is created from the originally exposed material, which then serves as the basis for reproducing the film material. Today, the material is used in labeling applications, design applications, and backlit applications in digital printing. The double-sided matte coating makes the labeling film suitable for a wide variety of printing applications. Easy handling during both printing and cutting makes labeling film a cost-effective alternative to other plastic signage materials.

The Term “Labeling Film”

Labeling film made from optimont® Laserfilm is ideally suited for high-quality, durable name plates. They are used in companies and public authorities, at trade fairs, or at events. Thanks to the double-sided matte coating, labeling film offers excellent printability with both laser printers and thermal transfer printers. Crisp, sharp, and abrasion-resistant markings ensure a visually appealing and long-lasting design of the printed signs. In the optimont® LF-AD version, the labeling film is self-adhesive and can be easily applied as a label or name plate on smooth surfaces.

Areas of Application for Labeling Film

• Film substitute in reprography
• Print medium for toner-based, xerographic printing systems
• Design applications
• Labeling
• Business cards
• Backlit applications in digital printing
• Self-adhesive labels for office and logistics applications

BO-PET Material for Labeling Film

The term BO-PET stands for biaxially oriented polyester film made from polyethylene terephthalate. Biaxial orientation refers to a processing step that takes place after the film has been extruded. Immediately after production, the film is stretched in two directions—a process known as stretching in technical terms. This stretching in the machine direction and transverse direction improves the mechanical properties, temperature resistance, and dimensional stability of the film. This makes BO-PET film suitable for a wide range of applications, from the packaging industry and printing applications to technical uses in electrical engineering and electronics.

Double-Sided Coating of Labeling Film

To make BO-PET film printable, a coating is required. In the case of labeling film, the original film is coated white matte on both sides. This coating transforms the transparent BO-PET film into a translucent labeling film that is also suitable for backlit applications. The film features a copier-compatible and antistatic surface. It is suitable for all toner-based printing systems as well as for pen plotters and delivers consistent print quality. Labeling film is also suitable for manual labeling using standard pens. The high transparency or opacity of the labeling film offers a wide range of design possibilities.

Properties of Labeling Film

• High tear strength and temperature resistance
• Water resistance, including the printed text when produced by laser printing
• Resistant to a wide range of chemicals, such as ethyl acetate or methyl ethyl ketone
• Dimensional stability
• Melting point of 252 °C
• Short drying time
• UV-resistant

Labeling Films from the Bleher Film Product Range

optimont® Laserfilm is a BO-PET film with a double-sided matte, translucent coating. We offer the film in thicknesses of 95 and 140 µm. Labeling film is supplied in roll form in standard formats as well as in DIN A4 and DIN A3 sizes. According to ASTM D-1003, light transmittance is at least 85 percent, while haze is below 95 percent. Tensile strength values for the 95 µm labeling film range from 1909 to 1993 kg/cm² in the machine direction and from 1969 to 2285 kg/cm² in the transverse direction. The thicker 140 µm labeling film achieves tensile strength values of 2064 to 2109 kg/cm² in the machine direction and 1888 to 1924 kg/cm² transverse to the machine direction. In adhesion testing using adhesive tape, no delamination of the coating is observed.

Recyclability of Labeling Film

The PET material on which labeling film is based is generally highly recyclable, as demonstrated by the very successful recycling of PET bottles. However, due to the matte coating that enables good printability, labeling film cannot currently be processed within these established recycling systems. At present, research projects are investigating the enzymatic breakdown of plastics by microorganisms. This type of recycling aims to recover the base substances required for the renewed production of PET. Should these methods become viable for large-scale industrial use, labeling films could also be integrated into a structured recycling process.