Spandex launches ImagePerfect Evergreen range

Spandex has launched a new range of environmentally responsible materials by adding ImagePerfect EverGreen to its portfolio. This range of eco-friendly self-adhesive films does not compromise ease of application or performance and comes at prices comparable with conventional alternatives.

ImagePerfect EverGreen is PVC-free and prioritises sustainability in product components, including the surface film, adhesive and liner, and how the rolls are presented, protected and packaged.

The ImagePerfect EverGreen range comprises two digitally printable white matte films with a range of adhesive systems (PerfectApply, and high-tack), plus a printable clear laminate film. The printable films are consciously designed to be compatible with latex and UV digital printing technologies. The ImagePerfect EverGreen coloured signage range includes twenty-two different films, including black and white in gloss and matt finishes and eighteen contemporary colours, with a bespoke colour matching service for specific one-off customer requirements.

“Customers regularly ask for more environmentally responsible film choices, with a particular drive to reduce their reliance on PVC. Until now, we’ve been able to suggest some PVC-free products, but ImagePerfect EverGreen is in another league. It addresses all aspects of the end-to-end product lifecycle, offering an environmental step-change without a price premium. With products like this, guiding clients towards more planet-friendly options will fast become the choice for sign makers. That’s great news for the environment and for visual communications businesses who want to do the right thing while still making healthy margins,” says Ben McCauley, Managing Director Spandex Asia Pacific.

ImagePerfect EverGreen products are 100% free of PVC and plasticiser, while retaining the handling characteristics, flexibility and durability of PVC films. The material used is polyolefin, which is free of toxins such as dioxins and furans and is readily recyclable into a range of consumer products.

The new range incorporates an advanced, water-based and solvent-free adhesive system which retains the adhesive performance expected by customers for stability and durability of applications.

Environmental innovation also extends to ImagePerfect EverGreen’s specially sourced liner paper, a 100% recycled, FSC certified base paper with an LDPE (low-density, polyethylene) coating that is free of petro-chemicals. This special liner requires 60% less CO² to manufacture than a typical liner material.

The roll supports (core holders/end bungs) used for ImagePerfect EverGreen also offer a significant environmental and strength advantage compared with the conventional polypropylene roll supports used to deliver most film products. The IP EverGreen roll supports are manufactured using a granulate of FSC-accredited recycled paper and recycled LDPE, resulting in a 100% recyclable material.

Environmental consideration also extends to the biodegradable bags used to protect rolls of IP EverGreen in transit and storage.

And the boxes used to package IP EverGreen products are made from unbleached cardboard, manufactured from sustainable, FSC-certified sources. The boxes are specified to be fully fit for purpose without using plastic-based tapes, and they carry detailed recycling and/or disposal instructions for all the individual product components, helping customers to continue the IP EverGreen ethos right through to the end of the products’ life.

ImagePerfect EverGreen materials are coated and converted in the UK using raw materials from European producers to minimise carbon footprint.