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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #113873
Title: KENAF PAPER CONVERSION TO PRESSURE SENSITIVE LABELS

Author
item Webber Iii, Charles
item BLEDSOE, ROBERT - BEANIE ADHESIVE PRODUCTS
item BLEDSOE, VENITA - BEANIE ADHESIVE PRODUCTS

Submitted to: Kenaf Association International Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/10/2000
Publication Date: 7/1/2000
Citation: WEBBER III, C.L., BLEDSOE, R.E., BLEDSOE, V.K. KENAF PAPER CONVERSION TO PRESSURE SENSITIVE LABELS. KENAF ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS. 2000. P. 37.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Labels vary from highly technical applications (transponder imbedded, bar coded, or electrical circuitry imprinted) to intricate artistic labels. The objective of this research was to develop and produce the first kenaf pressure sensitive labels. The first hurdle and accomplishment was a successful printing evaluation using standard single color printing methods sthat established the feasibility of pursuing the development and productio of kenaf labels using a four-color printing process. Rolls of kenaf paper measuring 26.7 cm (10.5 in) by 7,315 m (24,000 ft) were converted to label stock by the following methods. Liner paper (40#) was first coated on one side with a silicone release agent. The silicone-coated side of the liner paper then received a 1-mil hot-melt adhesive application. The kenaf paper was then laminated to the silicon-adhesive-coated liner paper. The lamination process bonded the adhesive to the kenaf paper while still permitting the future ease of separation of the kenaf paper from the silicon-coated liner paper. The pressure sensitive label stock was then trimmed to a width of 25.4 cm (10 in), coated, and printed using a rotary letterpress with standard photopolymer plates. Standard letterpress inks were used in the four-color printing process. The color inks were applied to the paper using the standard color dot pattern procedure. Black was the first color to be printed, followed by cyan, magenta, and yellow. Varnish was applied as an overcoat following the printing process. The labels were then die-cut, and the waste removed. This research and product development project successfully used kenaf paper stock to produce the first high quality single and four-color printed labels using standard conversion and printing technology.