Features Research & Innovation
Specialty paper can replace plastic label for molded containers

Stora Enso has developed a specialty paper that will enable the packaging industry to use a renewable material as a high-resolution, colorful label for plastic injection molded containers.

In the past, this process of in-mold labeling involved placing a printed film label in the mold before injecting melted resin to create a finished container.

With the new InnoMould paper produced at Stora Enso’s Uetersen mill, the film label can now be replaced by a paper label. The special properties of InnoMould also result in additional benefits — the paper combines with the plastic melt to form a wall that is much stiffer than packaging made using a conventional film label. The higher load-bearing properties of the container permit higher stacking and the walls of the containers can be produced with up to 50% less material.

Outstanding printing results are another benefit. InnoMould supports the use of high-resolution visuals and any desired number of different colours, including gold and silver. That makes it possible to achieve the kind of realistic aesthetics that are important for maximum advertising impact at the point of sale, especially when it comes to food and luxury items.

InnoMould has successfully undergone extensive testing under real-life conditions. The paper label is suitable for injection molding containers for products such as yogurt and dairy products, processed fish, butter, and even paint.