In the packaging industry, different types of substrates and finishes are involved that contribute to a product’s aesthetics, quality, and safety during shipping, storage, and display stages. For the packaging to fulfill these requirements, it is essential that the adhesive used in assembling and sealing the packages ensures excellent compatibility with the materials and the various production processes present in the industry.

To choose the best adhesive, it is important to consider certain characteristics, such as the following. It is essential to review them carefully, as your final decision will depend on these aspects.

• Compatibility it is important to choose an adhesive that has an affinity with the packaging material. Some adhesives work better with certain materials, such as corrugated cardboard, paperboard, or cardstock with or without coatings such as metallic, enamel, plasticized, varnished, etc.

• Required Strength: if you are shipping heavy packages, the adhesive you choose must have sufficient bonding strength to support the weight of the contents. If the package is large, a stronger adhesive may be required to ensure the flaps remain closed.

• Final Product Exposure Conditions: if the packages are going to be sent to a humid or cold environment, an adhesive that can withstand different environmental conditions will be needed.

• Type of Process: depending on the production process, it should be identified whether a cold-applied, water-based adhesive or a hot-applied adhesive, such as hot melt, is required.

• Production speed: Production Speed: one of the factors that determines which adhesive to use is the process speed, as the faster the production line, the more it will require an adhesive that provides high initial strength and fast drying or cooling, depending on the type of adhesive used.

• Security: if you are shipping hazardous or sensitive products, you may need a special adhesive that is resistant to chemicals or does not come off easily.

In general, the choice between water-based adhesives and hot melt adhesives will depend solely on the specific needs of the application and the packaging materials used in your company. Therefore, do not hesitate to contact us when making this decision. Remember, we have a professional team ready to answer your questions and concerns. At Artecola, we are committed to the continuous improvement of your industry’s production processes.