DataLase enhances inkless technology for metal can decoration | Packaging Scotland

IN response to growing demand for sustainable printing solutions, DataLase has announced the further advancement of its inkless technology for metal can decoration.

With increasing emphasis on reducing material waste, enhancing recyclability and lightweighting, DataLase explained that label-free metal cans are gaining market share, offering benefits over traditional alternatives like glass and plastic.

DataLase has now extended its inkless solutions from metal lid decoration to include metal cans, enabling track and trace capabilities across all metal can market segments, including beverages, household goods and personal care. The company’s label-free solutions rely on speciality pigments that change colour when exposed to specific laser wavelengths. The firm’s photonic printing technology combines pigments and laser energy to produce an ink-free solution at the point of imaging.

For metal can decoration, the pigments are integrated into a coating that can be applied using conventional printing techniques such as flexo and offset printing, eliminating the need for labels. This process allows for the generation of QR codes.

DataLase added that the coatings are compatible with existing overprint varnishes and UV laser imaging preserves varnish integrity while activating the DataLase pigment layer, enabling ‘robust, high-speed’ QR code imaging.

DataLase’s CTO, Ally Grant, said, “This advanced track and trace capability provides assurance of product integrity and reduced environmental impact to all parties within the supply chain, including consumers. Furthermore, it supports sustainability goals by eliminating the need for labels and inks at the point of imaging, while aligning with anticipated Digital Product Passport regulations in the packaging market.”