Non-polar Surfaces / Low-Energy

Non-polar surfaces have low surface energy, which impedes the adhesion of adhesives or printing inks. In industrial labeling, this often applies to plastics such as polyethylene or polypropylene. For label manufacturers, selecting labeling films with appropriate adhesives is crucial to ensure a reliable bond. This way, labels adhere securely even to non-polar surfaces.

Typical low surface energy materials (LSE, 18–35 mN/m) include:

• PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene/Teflon)
• SI (Silicone)
• PP (Polypropylene)
• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
• PE (Polyethylene)
• LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)
• PMMA (Polymethyl methacrylate)
• EP (Epoxy resin)
• PS (Polystyrene)
• PC (Polycarbonate)
• PA (Polyamide)
• PUR/PU (Polyurethane)