Sun Chemical has expanded its portfolio of nitrocellulose-alternative inks for flexible packaging, responding to regulatory pressure and recyclability requirements facing converters and brand owners. The enhanced range is designed for solvent-based flexographic and gravure applications and is positioned as an alternative to traditional nitrocellulose (NC) systems used in inks and coatings.
Nitrocellulose has been widely used in flexible packaging but faces challenges linked to supply constraints, cost volatility and recycling performance. During high-temperature recycling, NC can contribute to odour, discolouration and contamination, which can reduce recyclate quality and limit reuse. Sun Chemical states that its NC-free solutions are compatible with existing recycling streams and aligned with RecyClass and CEFLEX design guidelines.
The expanded portfolio includes surface printing solutions under the SunSpectro SolvaCycle range, lamination inks marketed as SunStrato DuraCycle, SunStrato Duratort and SunStrato Duralam, and a multipurpose option, SunUno SoliCycle, suitable for both surface and lamination printing. The company said these products are designed to function together as a system for converters transitioning away from NC-based formulations.
According to Sun Chemical, the inks are built on a modular polyurethane concentrate platform, allowing converters to move from NC or NC/PU systems to NC-free alternatives with minimal disruption to press operations. The company said this approach supports supply continuity while maintaining print performance and colour requirements.
The NC-alternative inks are intended for polyethylene and polypropylene flexible packaging and multi-laminate structures used in applications such as chilled and frozen foods, laundry products, confectionery, bakery packaging and horticulture. Sun Chemical operates manufacturing and supply capabilities across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas and Asia, enabling regional support for converters adopting the new systems.
Mehran Yazdani, President, Packaging and Advanced Materials at Sun Chemical, said: “Our NC-alternative solutions offer customers a clear pathway to sustainable growth. By mitigating supply risks, enabling efficiencies, and supporting end-of-life recyclability targets, we’re giving our customers the solutions they need to meet evolving brand, retailer, and regulatory demands, without compromise on quality or safety.”