hubergroup Print Solutions, a leading manufacturer of printing chemicals, is expanding its portfolio with Gecko CyclOne, a new nitrocellulose-free (NC-free) liquid ink system for frontal, reverse, and lamination printing.

The ink range is based on a proprietary polyurethane technology and helps printers meet the requirements of modern, recyclable packaging, without compromising on print quality or efficiency.

hubergroup expands NC-free ink with Gecko CyclOne.

Bespoke PU technology for impressive print results

For decades, nitrocellulose was regarded as the standard binder for high-quality solvent-based printing applications due to its outstanding properties.

However, with increasing demands on the recyclability of packaging and stricter regulatory requirements, there is currently a growing need for sustainable alternatives.

With Gecko CyclOne, hubergroup is expanding its NC-free portfolio to include a high-performance solution that meets these requirements.

Thanks to in-house developed polyurethane technology and decades of experience in formulation development, the new product line delivers outstanding mechanical and optical properties and is in no way inferior to conventional NC-based systems in terms of print quality and performance.

Modular system boosts operational efficiency

At the heart of Gecko CyclOne is a modular system concept: pigment concentrates can be easily adapted for frontal, reverse, and lamination printing through the use of special additives.

This approach simplifies stock management whilst maximizing flexibility, enabling print shops to boost their operational efficiency and adapt quickly to changing production requirements.

The PU-based system is suitable for flexographic and gravure printing, with or without lamination, and is also available for mono-solvent applications.

The product range includes white, CMYK process colors, varnishes, and primers. This provides printers with all the essential components for printing on flexible packaging from a single source.

A smooth transition to an NC-free future

As PU-based printing systems are very similar in application to the established NC-based processes, the switch to the new technology is straightforward and does not entail any fundamental changes to existing processes.

hubergroup supports its customers throughout the entire transition process, ensuring a smooth implementation.

Ongoing commitment to recyclable packaging solutions

The launch of Gecko CyclOne underlines hubergroup’s ongoing commitment to recyclable packaging solutions. Complementing Gecko Platinum and Gecko Xtreme White, the new ink range further expands the NC-free portfolio.

As early as 2015, the company launched some of the first PU-based solutions and has since been driving the development of high-performance printing inks for a more sustainable packaging industry.