74 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2024 - Issue 349 port paper packaging markets, including standard and technical extenders, and coatings for corrugated for post- and preprint, which can be used alongside Flint Group’s HexaCode and OctaCode bases. “Products in the TerraCode Bio range replace traditional extender components with high-quality bio-based alternatives,” Raassina explains, continuing: “These formulations feature up to 90% bio-renewable content, while still providing outstanding print quality and on-press stability, helping converters to reduce their carbon emissions produced by Flint Group’s products by up to 40%. “TerraCode Bio also maintains the resistance properties of conventional ink systems – a significant achievement given the difficulty of maintaining performance characteristics while maximising bio-renewable content.” Raassina goes as far as to say that the quality offered by TerraCode Bio is comparable or superior to existing synthetic technology, and the range can be used alongside existing base systems. This, he continues, facilitates a smooth transition from previous extender ranges, reducing downtime and disruption. “Offering excellent coverage, tonal values, and trap quality, with no compromise on the environment, TerraCode Bio is the ideal solution for environmentally conscious printers looking to create high volume uncoated work and high-quality coated designs,” he says. Address Key Trends Up next is Encore Machinery, which specialises in solutions for paper and board conversion machinery. Managing director Paul Davidson says sustainability is only one trend that the company has picked up in recent months. He explains that the shift towards environmentally friendly materials is more prominent than ever, with consumers and businesses demanding packaging solutions that minimise environmental impact, such as recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable options. Aside from this, Davidson highlights other key trends that PSPs in this sector should look out for. He explains: “Firstly, smart packaging; integrating technology into packaging, including QR codes, NFC board packaging involves more than just the material it is made from. Choosing inks and coatings designed to minimise environmental impact is crucial for achieving sustainability goals. Innovations in ink technology, such as those by Flint Group, make these goals attainable.” With this, Raassina draws attention to some of the options available from Flint. These include TerraCode Bio, its most recent product launch for the paper and board sector. Flint says this extended range is designed to maintain the print and resistance properties of conventional ink systems while maximising the use of renewable content. The series includes a selection of OK Compost-certified options to sup- ◄ Kari Raassina, Flint’s senior director of product management Europe Products in the TerraCode Bio range from Flint Group have formulations that feature up to 90% bio-renewable content 90 VOC-free, and ink technology based on bio-renewable content and recycled raw materials can pay dividends.” Raassina goes on to say that while sustainable inks and coatings are one thing, they must also provide high-quality print performance. Raassina advises accurate colour reproduction and on-press stability are important considerations that must be made when selecting inks, and with the growing demand for short-run, varied jobs, high substrate compatibility can unlock untold benefits for flexibility and efficiency. “Finding ink technology that balances performance with sustainability is key to success,” Raassina says, adding: “Creating more sustainable paper and High-volume consumables, inks, and coatings can significantly contribute to a business’ environmental footprint PACKAGING MATERIALS
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