hubergroup Print Solutions introduces a nitrocellulose (NC) calculation service to support printers in determining the NC content in their packaging. Each hubergroup service technician is now equipped with an NC calculator, enabling an accurate assessment of the NC content in packaging constructions and checking their compliance with thresholds.

Combined with the company’s solvent-based Gecko portfolio, this innovative service enables printers and designers to plan recycling-friendly packaging concepts with confidence and foresight. The service addresses the challenges posed by evolving regulations and helps the industry transition towards a circular future.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) mandates that all packaging must be recyclable by 2030, with non-recyclable materials set to be banned. Moreover, current Design for Recycling (D4R) definitions, e.g. from RecyClass, Ceflex, and the German Mindeststandard impose stringent limits on the allowable NC content in flexible packaging – ranging from de facto bans to threshold limits between 0.8% and 1.3% by weight. This leaves converters and printers in a difficult position, needing to deliver packaging that meets performance demands while staying ahead of evolving compliance requirements.

Dr. Lars Hancke, Manager Business Development Flexible Packaging at hubergroup Deutschland, states: "With our self-developed NC calculator, customers quickly receive reliable results on the NC content of their packaging prints, allowing them to make informed decisions. This new service therefore enhances and streamlines their product development process.”

The NC calculator is tailored specifically to hubergroup’s Gecko portfolio, a highly versatile and performance-driven ink and varnish system for flexible packaging. For NC-based printing within the thresholds, hubergroup recommends combining NC-free Whites with NC-based colours to strike the perfect balance between performance and recyclability.

Enno Lingemann, Technical Product Manager Gecko at hubergroup Deutschland, states: "With Gecko’s flexible structure and our dedicated support, we empower our customers to confidently meet regulatory challenges while achieving outstanding print quality, speed, and design versatility."