ATH2: Anti-Humidity Technical Barrier for Flexography and Packaging Protection
The ATH2 anti-humidity technical barrier is a high-performance functional coating, printable via flexography, specifically designed to reduce the Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) and control the substrate's moisture absorption. Available in both water-based and UV-based formulations depending on your production requirements, this coating creates a robust protective layer that minimizes material deformation (such as warping or curling) and prevents print defects, ensuring packaging integrity in humid environments, demanding cold chains, and hygrothermal variations.
Operational Advantages on Press
- Strict WVTR Control: Significantly reduces water vapor permeability, helping to maintain both the quality of the enclosed product and the structural integrity of the packaging.
- Maximum Dimensional Stability: Drastically limits the absorption and swelling of paper and cardboard, preventing on-press issues such as waving, curling, and loss of flatness.
- High-Speed Process Compatibility: Fully optimized for fast flexographic printing (flexo decks and coaters), ensuring excellent adhesion, mechanical resistance, and seamless integration with other inks and varnishes.
- Printability Optimization: Stabilizes the substrate surface, reducing mottle effects while improving ink adhesion and overall color uniformity.
- Superior Cold Chain Protection: Prevents surface condensation and moisture-related damage during the storage and distribution of dry foods, fresh meals, and retail goods.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical System | Available in Water-Based or UV-Based formulations. |
| Application Method | Conventional flexographic deck and coater unit. |
| Recommended Substrates | Coated paper and board (highest efficiency); recycled board, kraft, and films (with corona treatment). |
| Primary Function | Reduction of Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) and condensation barrier. |
| Post-Process Compatibility | Die-cutting, creasing, folding, gluing, and heat-sealing. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Formulations suitable for food contact and migration control (subject to applicable regulations). |
Logistics and Handling
- Packaging Formats: Available in 25 kg pails, 200 kg drums, and 1000 kg IBC totes to suit any production volume.
- Storage Conditions: Store in dry, well-ventilated areas, maintaining temperatures between 5 ºC and 30 ºC (41 ºF - 86 ºF). Protect from direct sunlight and prevent freezing.
- Shelf Life: 6 months for water-based formulations and up to 12 months for UV formulations, when stored in the original unopened container.
- Industrial Safety: Standard handling under industrial chemical regulations. Please refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for ventilation protocols and recommended PPE.