Label Shape can affect adhesion to a surface

The shape of the substrate, along with the size and stiffness of the label, must be considered to insure proper end use performance. If a stiff label is being applied to a curved surface, the stiffness or memory of the label may cause the label to lift from the substrate before the adhesive has had a chance to adhere to the surface. Smaller label size on thicker substrates may cause flagging. A medium to heavy embossed texture on your label may cause gaps between the label and bottle. These gaps will allow wrinkles to form when there’s high humidity or when the label is submerged.

Surface Cleanliness can affect label adhesion to a surface

The cleanliness of the surface of the substrate when the label is applied will affect the ultimate adhesion of the label and the success of the application. Contamination from dirt, oils, frost and other foreign elements prevent the adhesive from contacting the surface. All substrates should be clean and free of all contamination.

Temperature during application

The temperature of the substrate at the time the label will be applied can affect the ability of the label to adhere to the substrate. Pressure sensitive labels require the adhesive to flow into the pores of the substrate. If the temperature at the time of application is below the freezing point of the adhesive, the adhesive will lose its ability to grab the surface and will edge lift or fall off.

Environmental Conditions after application

Paper label materials are affected by moisture or humidity. Moisture can cause the paper to deteriorate resulting in a loss of print contrast and barcode scanning. The adhesive on your labels expire one year after manufacturing, when stored at 72°F / 50% RH (Relative Humidity). Fluctuating temperatures/RH above or below will reduce the life of your label.

Labels after application

Labels exposed to excessive levels of abrasion may require a stronger coating. Long term exposure to high humidity (above 55% RH°) will cause most label materials to deteriorate. Even short exposure to 40°F is enough, in some cases, to cause the adhesive to become brittle; causing label to lift or fall off. Damage to the paper liner while stored may cause small tears along the edge or bends and creases. Small liner tears can break the web during automated application, while creases or bends may cause the label to stay on the liner.

Adhesive Properties

The maximum holding power the label will achieve as the adhesive fully bonds to the surface. How long it takes for an adhesive to gain ultimate adhesion varies and depends on factors like the adhesive’s stiffness, the roughness of the receiving surface and environmental conditions. Depending on those factors, it can take anywhere from 2–24 hours for ultimate adhesion to happen.

Minimum Application Temperature: When an adhesive isn’t designed for cold temperatures, it will stiffen and lose its adhesive strength as the temperature decreases. Most adhesives have a minimum application temperature of 40–50°F before they crystallize and become solid. Cold temperature adhesives can work in temperatures as low as -20°F.

Service Temperature Range: The temperature range the adhesive can function in after the label has been applied and built up to its ultimate adhesion. Most pressure sensitive adhesives have a range of -65°F to 200°F with a paper label stock, or up to 300°F with a film label stock.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT SCUFFING

Label scuffing is defined as smeared ink, excessive text or graphics removed on the label. Tears, cuts, punctures, indentations and material penetrations piercing through the label surface is NOT scuffing.