Siegwerk smashes recycling barrier with RecyClass-approved NC-free inks for flexible packaging

GERMANY – Siegwerk has secured RecyClass Technology Approval for its nitrocellulose-free flexo ink system UR 62 and gravure ink system UR 74, confirming that both meet European recyclability requirements for surface-printed PE and PP flexible packaging, finally cracking a problem that has long plagued high-quality mechanical recycling.

NC-based inks are widely used for their excellent printability, heat resistance, quick drying, and strong adhesion.

But their limited thermal stability creates a nightmare for recyclers: unpleasant odour, discolouration, and degraded recyclate quality during reprocessing. With Design for Recycling rules tightening across Europe, replacing nitrocellulose has become urgent.

The NC-Free Toolbox: Closing the Surface Printing Gap

Conventional PU-based lamination inks have long offered NC-free options with full RecyClass recognition, but they cannot be used for surface printing.

Siegwerk’s new UR 62 (flexo) and UR 74 (gravure) systems smash that barrier, enabling NC-free printing across both surface and lamination applications.

The company bundles these solutions in its NC-free toolbox, giving converters and brand owners a clear, practical framework for adopting circular-friendly inks without compromising performance.

All Siegwerk NC-free solutions use proprietary, self-developed polyurethane binders to replace nitrocellulose.

The company noted that these binders deliver excellent printability along with high heat and mechanical resistance, essential properties for demanding industrial printing environments.

What RecyClass Approval Actually Means

The approvals followed rigorous laboratory testing under RecyClass protocols, with specific usage conditions detailed in official approval letters.

According to Siegwerk, the certification simplifies material selection, lowers risk, and accelerates the industry’s shift toward truly circular packaging.

Dr Björn Ewig, head of technology for flexible packaging at Siegwerk EMEA, explained that the company’s focus has been to develop NC-free alternatives that work reliably in industrial production and meet recyclability requirements without compromising on print or packaging performance.

The Bigger Picture: RethINK Packaging in Action

The approval strengthens Siegwerk’s “RethINK Packaging” strategy, which focuses on closing technical performance gaps and advancing circular packaging solutions.

The company has systematically expanded its NC-free ink portfolio for flexible packaging, targeting one of the most persistent barriers to recyclability.

These alternatives support recyclable structures while delivering the high performance demanded in industrial flexo and gravure applications.

The Bottom Line

For converters and brand owners, Siegwerk’s RecyClass approvals remove a significant compliance risk.

As Extended Producer Responsibility fees increasingly penalize non-recyclable packaging and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation mandates recyclability by 2030, the ability to specify NC-free inks with verified recyclability becomes a competitive necessity.

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