Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) has developed laminated tubes with a premium metallic design, based on mono-materials. The newly developed laminated tubes will be marketed widely, beginning with Southeast Asia then expanding into other markets.

[Background and Product Features]

In order to provide the metallic sheen in packaging, such as laminated tubes, it is necessary to boost the brightness of the color tone. To date, this has been achieved by laminating polyethylene (PE) film with different materials, such as aluminum foil and aluminum-deposited polyethylene-terephthalate (PET). Packaging made by laminating PE film with aluminum vapor-deposited PE film is more suitable for recycling, as it is based on a mono-material. However, with standard processing technology, this approach poses the challenge of a loss in brightness of the metallic finish.

In response to this challenge, DNP has applied proprietary vapor deposition technology and plastic film lamination technology developed over a long period of time. By meticulously selecting the PE resin, aluminum vapor deposition method, and crafting film lamination technique, it has been possible to achieve an authentic premium metallic design, even while using mono-material.

This mono-material based metallic laminated tube is ideal for personal care products, such as hair care and body care products where luxury image is demanded. Its design and quality have developed a reputation with major Southeast Asia laminate tube manufacturers, and the metallic mono-material tube laminate has been used for major leading brands since 2019.

[Eco-Friendly Product and Service Initiatives]

By combining the strengths of our one-of-a-kind printing and information (P&I) know-how with the specialties of our partners, DNP is engaged in the creation of new value that meets the expectations of our consumers while also solving social issues. We are also expending efforts towards resolving environmental issues, such as plastics problems as represented by marine plastics, in order to achieve a circular economy, and develop solutions that reduce global warming. The entire DNP group is putting efforts into the supply of eco-friendly goods and services.

In 2018, DNP developed a mono-material packaging to promote recycling. Going forward, we will take full advantage of our advanced converting technology to provide functions, such as oxygen barrier properties, heat resistance and robustness, aiming to expand our product lineup.

[Looking Ahead]

DNP will continue to expand the use of mono-material and metallic laminated tubes in the Southeast Asian market. In addition, we will be expanding the sales of the newly developed laminated tube to match unfolding recycling-related developments in various parts of the world, beginning with Japan and including Europe, the United States, and Asia. We are aiming for annual sales of 1 billion yen in fiscal year 2022, targeting personal care, cosmetics, food, home care and industrial products.

* Product prices, specifications and service contents mentioned in this news release are current as of the date of publication. They may be changed at any time without notice.