Appleton has introduced at Labelexpo a new imaging chemistry for its topcoated direct thermal label facestocks. The new patent-pending technology platform has been deployed across Appleton’s core direct thermal label grades, Résiste 900-3.0 and Résiste 190-3.2.

The improved label grades now offer enhanced performance, particularly in high heat and humidity conditions. With the new technology, bar codes will retain their dark, crisp image while the label preserves its bright white appearance, allowing for improved scan rates in applications such as warehouse and logistics, and regions where labels are exposed to hot and/or humid conditions. In testing, the Résiste 900-3.0 demonstrated more than 45-percent higher image darkness after exposure to 70°C with 95 percent relative humidity, while Résiste 190-3.2 image darkness enhanced more than 100 percent over previous technologies.

“The new imaging chemistry provides superior performance in demanding environments,” said Mike Cove, thermal marketing manager for Appleton. “It also delivers more flexibility and improved efficiencies for label converters due to the more stable sheet whiteness at higher web temperatures associated with more intense drying conditions on press. These enhanced grades offer excellent compatibility with popular water-based and UV-curable inks. And, the added improvements in ink adhesion characteristics improve finished product robustness during thermal imaging and end-use labeling.”