TOPPAN, a leading global provider of printing and packaging solutions, has announced the development and upcoming Indian launch of GL-SP, a revolutionary barrier film for sustainable packaging. 

This innovative product, created in collaboration with India-based TOPPAN Speciality Films (TSF), utilises biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) as its substrate.

The rise of sustainable packaging and monomaterial solutions

The global market for eco-friendly packaging is experiencing a surge, driven by growing concerns about plastic waste and decarbonisation efforts. 

Monomaterial packaging, a recycling-friendly approach that uses a single type of material, is gaining significant traction. 

Major companies worldwide are announcing ambitious goals for increasing the circulation of plastic resources used in their packaging and actively pursuing ways to achieve them.

TSF is addressing these challenges head-on with the introduction of GL-SP. This film enables the creation of monomaterial structures for dry product packaging, a key component of achieving true recyclability.

Advantages of GL-SP

Monomaterial compatibility: GL-SP's BOPP base facilitates the creation of monomaterial packaging, aligning with the increasing demand for enhanced recyclability.

Barrier performance: Delivering excellent barrier properties comparable to traditional polyethylene terephthalate vapour-deposited films, GL-SP is ideal for packaging dry contents.

Transparency: Despite its exceptional barrier properties, TOPPAN said GL-SP boasts exceptional transparency, allowing consumers to see the product within, fostering creative packaging design and enhancing consumer appeal.

End-to-end production

Significantly, GL-SP marks a first for TOPPAN Group as production will encompass the entire process, from BOPP film manufacture (resin formulation and film-forming) to barrier film creation, all at a single location. 

TOPPAN emphasised that this end-to-end approach is expected to ensure consistent quality control while streamlining product development, lead times, and overall production costs.

Global launch plans

TOPPAN Group said it will commence sales and sample shipments in April 2024, focusing on markets in India, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations region, North America, and Europe.

With its monomaterial compatibility, exceptional barrier performance, and superior transparency, GL-SP is poised to empower manufacturers to embrace eco-friendly practices without sacrificing product quality or consumer appeal.