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PPG TESLIN® BS-5609 Certified Label Stock: A Durable and Secure Solution for GHS-Compliant Chemical Labeling Applications

Written by Hayden Wier | Apr 3, 2019 5:13:26 PM

PPG TESLIN® BS-5609 Certified Label Stock: A Durable and Secure Solution for GHS-Compliant Chemical Labeling Applications

Chemical, coating and petroleum manufactures around the globe have invested significant resources into adopting the globally harmonized system (GHS) of classification and labelling of their products.

To help chemical manufacturers and other shippers of hazardous, PPG offers a British Standard (BS) 5609-certified label stock that is a dependable, economical, versatile and worker-friendly solution for GHS-compliant chemical labeling applications.

As a durable and highly printable synthetic material, PPG TESLIN® label stock excels for label applications that demand a tough, high-performance material. From identification labels for industrial and commercial products to warning labels for hazardous materials to supply chain tracking labels for food and pharmaceutical products, if you’re looking for a label that stands up to water, chemicals, abrasion and temperature extremes — all while delivering high-quality printed text and graphics — it’s TESLIN label stock to the rescue.

 

Excellent abrasion resistance

Harsh environments and punishing applications are no match for TESLIN label stock because it stands up better than other synthetic paper label stocks to abrasion, scratching and scuffing.

Synthetics like vinyl (PVC), polyester (PE) and polypropylene (PP) merely allow printed data to sit on their surfaces, making vital information vulnerable to exposure and handling.

TESLIN label stock is different. It is engineered with a microporous structure that absorbs ink and toners, securing printed data and making it nearly impervious to damage from handling and abuse.

Chemical and water-resistance

TESLIN label stock withstands exposure to potentially destructive substances such as nitric, hydrochloric and phosphoric acids, as well as ammonium and sodium hydroxides.

It also conforms to BS 5609 standard, a specification for marine label applications that tests the ability to withstand three months of immersion in saltwater without losing print quality, adhesive strength or dimensional stability.

BS 5609 is often specified when extra-durable labels are required because it assures long-term performance in adverse conditions. The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) code and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals both require BS 5609 certification.

BS 5609 is a four-part standard and includes two key certifications. The first, Section 2 certification, is when a base label must show good adhesive performance and dimensional stability after being immersed for three months in salt water. The second, Section 3, assesses the legibility and print permanence of a base label printed with a specific print system. Together, results of the two tests indicate a finished label’s durability after being subjected to weathering, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, temperature cycling and abrasion.

 

Static dissipation for enhanced workplace safety and productivity

In addition to making it breathable and lightweight, microporosity also enables static-dissipation in TESLIN label stock. This performance benefit helps minimize static buildup during digital printing, improving throughput and print quality, and also reducing risks associated with electrical discharge.

The build-up of static electricity during the label printing and application process is a phenomenon in chemical facilities, and is particularly dangerous due the presence of solvent vapors in these manufacturing environments. PVC and PET labels are often vulnerable to build-up of static between the face stock and the liner especially when used in low-humidity environments.

Unlike other synthetic label stocks, TESLIN label stock absorbs and dissipates static build-up. The end result is a reduced potential for electrical discharge and arc-flash-related fires, and inherently safer workers and workplaces.

To learn more about static issues, see this video showcasing static testing of PPG TESLIN labels vs vinyl or read PPG’s case study from a major paint manufacturer. 

 

High print versatility

Another benefit of TESLIN label stock is that it is widely compatible with a broad range of print technologies. In additional to traditional offset and flexo, it is suitable for variable print applications involving inkjet and thermal transfer printing. And because it demonstrates thermal stability up to 180°C, it can withstand the heat of laser printing without the risk of melting.

TESLIN label stock also delivers the high-definition print resolution essential for QR codes and other scannable data – and unlike other synthetics, no special oxidizing inks or long dry times are required.

Contact us to today to request samples and learn more about PPG TESLIN label stock.

Teslin is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.