Sun Chemical achieves RecyClass certification for four solvent-free lamination adhesives

USA – Sun Chemical has announced that four of its SunLam solvent-free adhesives have gained approval from RecyClass for integration into European flexible polyethylene (PE) recycling streams. 

This certification marks a step forward for packaging manufacturers seeking materials that support efficient recycling processes across the region.

RecyClass operates as a collaborative effort among industry stakeholders to enhance the recyclability of plastic packaging throughout Europe. 

Backed by Plastics Recyclers Europe, the initiative offers detailed guidelines for designing recyclable products, along with testing protocols and certification processes. 

These standards help ensure that packaging components do not hinder sorting and processing at recycling facilities, thereby facilitating greater material recovery rates.

The certified products include SunLam ZA-1000 paired with ZB301, designed for general and medium-performance applications in PE flexible packaging. 

Another is SunLam XP-3288 combined with HA-601, which incorporates gas barrier features and works well with colored PE streams, while showing partial suitability for natural PE variants.

SunLam QA8000 with QB-800 targets medium to high-performance needs, and SunLam NS-2033 alongside HA-376 suits everyday packaging demands. 

Each adhesive complies with RecyClass guidelines under controlled testing scenarios, confirming their role in maintaining stream purity during mechanical recycling.

These adhesives stand out due to their solvent-free formulation, which reduces energy consumption in production and eliminates volatile organic compound emissions. 

Three of them draw from Sun Chemical’s ultra-low monomer (ULM) platform, enabling quicker commercialization and minimizing risks associated with adhesive degradation. 

They also improve safety in handling and boost overall operational hygiene. 

The gas barrier variant adds protective layers against oxygen and moisture, easing the shift toward single-material PE structures that simplify end-of-life management.

In a statement, Nicolas Bétin, director of product strategy for EMEA packaging inks and materials at Sun Chemical, said, “Sun Chemical is excited to add these to our extensive lamination adhesives portfolio.” 

He added that the company prioritizes options that deliver strong performance, satisfy regulatory demands, and aid sustainability efforts.

This approval aligns with Sun Chemical’s investments in research and development, often shaped by direct input from packaging converters. 

The firm has expanded its range of low-impact materials to address challenges in flexible packaging, where adhesives play a critical role in lamination without compromising recyclability.

Sun Chemical plans to roll out these adhesives to European customers immediately, with availability through its established distribution network. 

In related news, H.B. Fuller earlier this year obtained RecyClass recognition for its own adhesives in European bottle recycling applications.