EBM

Eminence Business Media

Monday, April 8, 2019

Synthetic paper is gaining prominence, replacing pulp paper in several applications


Synthetic paper came into existence as replacement for pulp based paper in areas where trees were scarce and crude oil was relatively cheaper. Synthetic paper created a niche for itself in applications where durability, weather resistance and security were desired. Over a period of time, synthetic paper has evolved technically and is now printable with most of the prevalent printing technologies. This has led to its easy adoption in the printing and packaging space.

Expanding the market:
Growing environmental concerns and steps taken by governments coupled with rising need for packaging and labeling in packaged food & beverages is leading to growth of synthetic paper in the market; tags and labels being the major growth area. 
 
The growth in tags and labels segment is fuelled by retail expansion, growth in product packaging and need for tracking and tracing products. The various label segments where synthetic paper finds its usage include wrap around labels, in-mould labels and a multitude of pressure sensitive labels. Further, security concerns have led to the growth in the market of synthetics paper in RFID applications. These tags protect high-value items by making the tag more resistant to tearing and also protect the integrity of the RFID inlay. Other markets include maps and manuals, store banners, posters, restaurant menus, covers, ID cards, outdoor applications and numerous other commercial printing applications.

With increase in marketing activities by various companies to promote their products and improve brand visibility, the demand for synthetic paper for promotional banners, indoor/outdoor branding and advertisements has increased to further supplement the growth of this segment. Advertising on panels in public transportation vehicles and taxis are also some of the segments which will spur demand in the future.

Cosmo Film’s offering:
Cosmo Films is one of the largest manufacturers of synthetic paper in India and abroad. Keeping pace with the growing market of synthetic paper, Cosmo Synthetic Paper (CSP) is also expanding its usage in numerous applications.

The company recently launched an upgraded version of synthetic paper which could replace paper in several applications. Improved version of CSP is resistant to water, oils, chemicals and stains. Moreover, CSP works well with various printing technologies like conventional offset, UV offset, UV flexography, water based flexography, letter press printing, screen printing, thermal transfer printing with resin and wax-resin ribbon, select digital technologies. CSP provides an ease of conversion for slitting, scoring, folding, die-cutting, perforations, embossing, foil stamping, lamination and is even writable with oil based pens and pencils. It offers excellent lay flatness for sheet printing. Another advantage is CSP’s optimized drying time.

This version of paper is also pertinent in today’s scenario where conservation of environment and sustainability measures are desired. It helps in water conservation, prevents air pollution, and does not make use of hazardous chemicals at the time of manufacturing.