Avery Dennison’s AD CleanFlake secures recyclass approval for enhanced PET recycling

USA – Avery Dennison Corporation has achieved a key certification for its AD CleanFlake technology, earning RecyClass Technology Approval for compatibility with the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling stream. 

The endorsement confirms that the labels detach cleanly during processing, minimizing contamination in recycled flakes.

The approval follows a similar recognition for the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) stream in October 2024. 

According to company officials, AD CleanFlake maintains strong adhesion during use while releasing effectively in wash-off systems, preserving the quality of output materials. 

It also offers clear print visibility and efficient conversion on production lines, thanks to the TC7007 topcoat layer.

“This certification gives brands the tools to integrate sustainable labels seamlessly into their operations,” said a spokesperson from Avery Dennison’s Label and Packaging Materials division during the exhibition.

The technology has now gained backing from multiple industry groups, such as the European Pet Bottle Platform, Institut Cyclos-HTP, and the Association of Plastic Recyclers. 

These validations help packaging users verify their designs against European standards, potentially qualifying for top recyclability grades under upcoming Plastic Packaging Waste Regulations. 

Compliance could lower extended producer responsibility fees, estimated to save companies up to US$0.05 per unit in some markets.

In a related development from June 2025, Avery Dennison launched an RFID-integrated label that marked the first to receive the Association of Plastic Recyclers’ Design for Recyclability endorsement. 

Developed by combining CleanFlake adhesives with RFID expertise, it fits directly into North American PET sorting lines, reducing sorting errors by 15% in initial tests. 

The company noted that this fusion allows real-time tracking of recyclables, aiding waste management facilities.

Further advancing its efforts, Avery Dennison committed earlier this year to shifting its pharmaceutical label liners to 100% recycled PET by the end of 2025. 

This move targets a reduction in virgin plastic use by over 500 metric tons annually across its global supply chain. 

In a statement, Vice President of Global R&D Pascale Wautelet explained that the updated CleanFlake includes a repositioning option for manual label removal from PET bottles within an eight-hour period post-application, cutting misprint waste during manufacturing.

These steps equip converters and brand owners with versatile options for rigid plastics, from bottles to containers, without sacrificing shelf appeal or production speed. 

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE