Traditional self-adhesive labels are used in everything from product packaging to logistics and healthcare, but they rely on adhesives that are not easily biodegradable. Most adhesives, especially those made from polyacrylate emulsions, linger in the environment for years, contributing to pollution and waste management challenges.
The Innovation
This invention introduces a new type of environmentally friendly adhesive label by enhancing the biodegradability of polyacrylate-based adhesives. The key breakthrough is the use of L-kynurenine, a naturally occurring amino acid, as a biodegradation aid. By adding just 1–5% of L-kynurenine to the adhesive formula, the labels become significantly more biodegradable without losing their stickiness or strength.
What Makes It Unique
Unlike prior technologies, which either lacked biodegradability or compromised adhesive performance, this solution uses a novel compound—L-kynurenine—to balance both. Tests showed that while traditional formulas degraded only about 10–16%, those with L-kynurenine achieved up to 80% biodegradability, with no reduction in adhesive quality.
Benefits
- Environmentally Friendly: Drastically reduces long-term waste.
- Maintains Performance: Strong adhesion, durability, and usability across industries.
- Easy Integration: Can be produced using standard manufacturing processes.
Broader Impact
This innovation could transform industries that rely on labelling—retail, logistics, food, pharmaceuticals—by offering a sustainable option without sacrificing performance. It aligns with growing global efforts to reduce plastic waste, enhance product sustainability, and comply with environmental regulations. If widely adopted, it could lead to cleaner landfills, less microplastic pollution, and a meaningful step toward a circular economy.