Henkel Adhesive Technologies is launching a new generation of its Darex COV sealants, which are free from phthalate-based plasticisers.
The new phthalate-free formulations aim to provide reliable sealing for metal packaging while improving health and environmental credentials.
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The transition to phthalate-free polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-based compounds will gradually replace existing products, offering users a solution that not only complies with regulations but also presents processing and application benefits.
This initiative is in response to the tightening of legal requirements, including the European REACH regulation, and the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions across the supply chain.
Phthalates, known as potential endocrine disruptors, have been scrutinised by scientific and regulatory bodies for years.
Additionally, the European Commission has categorised several similar materials as ‘substances of very high concern’. Henkel’s decision to adopt phthalate-free formulations is a proactive measure to address these concerns.
Henkel market strategy manager Laura Baussà said: “With the new Darex COV series, we are offering our customers safe alternatives to protect employees and end users without compromising on performance.”
A primary goal in developing the new sealants was to create a one-component system suitable for nozzle application. The resultant Darex COV 73 provides stable viscosity, high solvent resistance, and thermal stability, without containing carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction-classified ingredients.
This formulation also allows for lower curing temperatures, reducing energy consumption and the carbon footprint of the application process.
The development of Darex COV 73 was achieved through a pilot project with Emballator, a Swedish metal packaging manufacturer.
Emballator transitioned several of its facilities to the new formulation in 2024, in line with its sustainability strategy and in anticipation of regulatory changes.
The real-world application of Darex COV 73 reportedly demonstrated its smooth application and effective sealing performance.
