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.
