Mactac, a North American adhesives, label and packaging company, has launched new cryogenic labelstocks for temperatures as low as -320º F. These cryogenic labelstocks are intended for harsh environment applications where labels must withstand exposure to liquid nitrogen or ultralow temperature freezers, thaw cycles, chemicals and solvents.

“Cryogenic labeling involves adhering label material to products that undergo extremely cold or harsh conditions,” says Kim Hensley, senior marketing manager of Mactac Performance Adhesives. “It is imperative that labels remain intact and legible. Mactac’s new cryogenic labels feature an aggressive advanced-technology, high-tack acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive and other unique characteristics to meet the needs of these demanding applications.”

Intended for use in medical research, clinical laboratories, fertility clinics and biobanks, the new cryogenic labelstocks are used for labeling laboratory identification substrates such as test tubes, ampules, vials, slides and more.

Key features of the labelstocks include excellent adhesion to small radius containers for firm attachment to test tubes and ampules, as well as reliable identification of plastic and glass vessels that endure long-term storage in liquid nitrogen. In addition, the labels provide resistance to edge-lifting—even when repeatedly subjected to changes between low temperatures and room temperatures such as removal from liquid nitrogen immersion.

The new cryogenic labels are offered as thermal transfer, direct thermal and laser printable products. They are available to customers in the following product constructions:

*LTC01454: 2.0-mil clear gloss polyester film that offers excellent printability with flexography and thermal transfer print methods. It features a 50# white glassine paper liner that is polyethylene laminated on one side and coated with a release system designed for label dispensing. The product is primarily for roll-to-roll applications where a more demanding liner is needed.
*LTC01469: 2.0-mil white semi-gloss polyester film that offers excellent printability with flexography and thermal transfer print methods. It features a 50# white glassine paper liner that is polyethylene laminated on one side and coated with a release system designed for label dispensing. It is primarily for roll-to-roll applications where a more demanding liner is needed.
*LTC01475: 3.9-mil white matte polypropylene film that is direct thermal coated (direct thermal printable) and features a 45# blue glassine paper liner that is coated with a release system designed for label dispensing. This product is primarily for roll-to-roll applications where a more demanding liner is needed.
*LTC01483: 2.0-mil white matte polyester film designed for excellent printability via laser print methods and features a 60# ivory Kraft paper liner that is polyethylene laminated on one side and coated with a release system designed for lay-flat applications.