Henkel Announces Use of Phthalate-Free Solutions for Sealing Metal Containers

In the realm of sustainable solutions, the packaging industry is making significant strides. One such advancement comes from Henkel Adhesive Technologies, who have introduced a new generation of Darex COV sealants. These sealants, free from phthalate-based plasticizers, are said to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint, making them a promising addition to the industry.

The Darex COV 73, a one-component sealant system suitable for nozzle application, offers stability in viscosity, high resistance to solvents, ketones, and oils, and thermal stability. This sealant was developed in a pilot project with Swedish metal packaging manufacturer Emballator.

Darex COV 73 enables curing temperature reduction, cutting energy consumption, and shrinking the application's carbon footprint. Moreover, it avoids the use of ingredients that are classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR).

The transition towards sustainable packaging solutions is driven by increasingly stringent legal requirements, including the European REACH regulation. Certain types of phthalates such as DEHP, DBP, and BBP have been classified as toxic to reproduction and are banned in various applications including toys and cosmetics.

The new PVC-based compounds, gradually replacing existing products, offer processing and application advantages. The European Commission has listed several similar substances in the SVHC (substances of very high concern) category.

Meanwhile, in the supermarket sector, the key to increasing the use of reusable packaging is under discussion but not explicitly mentioned in this article. A comprehensive guide on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation in 2025 is the focus of a separate article, detailing top brands' progress on packaging sustainability.

In the same vein, Proseal unveiled its sealing optimization solution, the XTP Automatic Tray Sealer, designed for medium-sized production facilities in June. On the other hand, Dow introduced the phthalate-free Darex COV 73 sealant to the market in 2024.

Lastly, it's worth noting that global packaging sustainability regulation in 2025 is a topic of extensive discussion. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation in 2025, while not explicitly mentioned earlier, is a significant part of this regulatory landscape.

This article provides a glimpse into the ongoing efforts towards sustainable packaging solutions, with Henkel Adhesive Technologies' Darex COV 73 sealant being a notable development. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect more innovative solutions to emerge, driving us towards a more sustainable future.