How to cloose the adhesive label material?

1. Understand the Application Environment

• Temperature:
  • High-temperature environments (e.g., industrial ovens, engine parts) require materials like polyimide (PI) or high-temperature synthetic films (resistant to -40°C to 200°C+).
  • Low-temperature environments (e.g., freezers) need materials with cold-resistant adhesives (e.g., freezer-grade paper or synthetic films) to prevent peeling.
  • Fluctuating temperatures (e.g., refrigerated goods) require materials with stable adhesion across a wide range (e.g., vinyl or polyester).
• Humidity & Moisture:
  • Wet or humid conditions (e.g., beverage bottles, bathroom products) demand waterproof materials such as:
    • Synthetic films (polypropylene, polyester, vinyl).
    • Coated papers with a water-resistant layer (e.g., gloss/matte coated paper for short-term moisture exposure).
• Chemical Exposure:
  • If the label contacts oils, solvents, or chemicals (e.g., cleaning products, automotive fluids), choose chemical-resistant materials like:
    • Polyester (PET) or polypropylene (PP) films with solvent-resistant adhesives.
    • Fluoropolymer-based materials for extreme chemical resistance.
• UV & Outdoor Exposure:
  • Outdoor labels (e.g., outdoor signage, automotive decals) need UV resistance to prevent fading or degradation. Opt for:
    • Vinyl (PVC) with UV stabilizers.
    • Polyester (PET) with UV-resistant coatings.

2. Consider the Surface of the Substrate

• Surface Smoothness:
  • Smooth surfaces (e.g., glass, metal, plastic bottles) work well with most materials, including paper, vinyl, or polyester.
  • Rough surfaces (e.g., cardboard, textured plastics, concrete) require high-tack adhesives and flexible materials (e.g., vinyl or rubber-based films) to conform to irregularities.
• Surface Type:
  • Non-porous surfaces (glass, metal, plastic): Adhesives need to form a strong bond without absorption. Solvent-based or acrylic adhesives are ideal.
  • Porous surfaces (paper, cardboard, wood): Water-based adhesives or rubber-based adhesives work better, as they can penetrate the surface for stronger adhesion.
• Surface Shape:
  • Flat surfaces: Most materials (paper, film) are suitable.
  • Curved surfaces (e.g., bottles, pipes): Flexible materials (vinyl, thin polyester) with conformable adhesives prevent wrinkling or peeling.
  • Irregular shapes: Ultra-thin, highly flexible films (e.g., polyurethane) or stretchable materials.

3. Define Functional Requirements

• Durability Needs:
  • Short-term use (e.g., shipping labels, promotional stickers): Paper-based materials (kraft, coated paper) are cost-effective.
  • Long-term use (e.g., product identification, industrial labels): Synthetic films (polyester, vinyl) or laminated papers for enhanced scratch and tear resistance.
• Printability:
  • If the label requires printing (e.g., barcodes, variable data), match the material to the printing method:
    • Thermal printing: Use thermal paper (coated with heat-sensitive chemicals) for cost-effective, quick printing (e.g., receipts, shipping labels).
    • Thermal transfer printing: Synthetic films (polyester, nylon) or coated papers work best, as they accept ink ribbons for high durability.
    • Inkjet printing: Uncoated papers or inkjet-compatible synthetic films (with porous coatings).
    • Flexographic printing: Most films and papers (requires compatibility with water-based or solvent-based inks).
• Special Functions:
  • Removability: For temporary labels (e.g., price tags), use low-tack adhesives on paper or vinyl (avoids residue).
  • Tamper-evident: Void films or destructible materials (break when peeled, indicating tampering).
  • Eco-friendliness: Compostable papers (with plant-based adhesives) or recyclable films (e.g., PLA-based materials).
  • Transparency: Clear polyester or vinyl for “no-label look” (e.g., glass bottles).

4. Size, Shape, and Aesthetics

• Small or intricate labels: Thin materials (e.g., 25-50μm polyester) are easier to die-cut and apply without wrinkling.
• Large labels: Stiffer materials (e.g., thick vinyl or laminated paper) prevent sagging.
• Aesthetic needs: Matte films for a premium look, glossy films for vibrancy, or textured materials for tactile appeal.

5. Cost and Quantity

• For high-volume, short-term use (e.g., retail tags), paper-based materials are economical.
• For low-volume, high-performance needs (e.g., industrial labels), synthetic films are worth the higher cost.

6. Industry Regulations

• Food & beverage: Use FDA-compliant materials (e.g., food-grade adhesives, BPA-free films).
• Medical: Choose sterile, chemical-resistant materials (e.g., polyester with acrylic adhesives).
• Automotive: Opt for UV and oil-resistant materials (e.g., polyimide).