Corona Treated PET: Printability & Adhesion Guide for Labels in USA
In the United States, corona treated PET film has become a go-to solution for packaging and labeling industries that demand superior printability and adhesion. As consumer brands invest more in high-impact graphics and durable labeling, ensuring inks and adhesives bond properly to the film is critical.
At Pilcher Hamilton Corporation, based in Greer, SC, we’ve been supplying and converting polyester (PET) films for over 120 years. Our corona treated PET films are engineered specifically for printing, laminating, and labeling applications across U.S. markets — helping brands deliver vibrant, long-lasting packaging results.
What is Corona Treated PET Film?
PET film is naturally resistant to inks and adhesives. Corona treatment modifies the surface tension of the polyester, creating a receptive layer that allows printing inks, coatings, and laminates to adhere effectively.
In the USA, corona treated PET is widely used for:
- Pressure-sensitive labels
- Shrink sleeves
- Flexible packaging laminates
- Industrial tapes and coatings
Why Printability and Adhesion Matter in the U.S.
- Brand impact: Sharp, vibrant labels are essential in crowded U.S. retail environments.
- Durability: Adhesion ensures labels remain intact despite handling, refrigeration, or moisture exposure.
- Efficiency: Strong ink adhesion reduces print defects and waste during production runs.
- Compliance: Many U.S. industries require labels that resist smudging and peeling.
Benefits of Corona Treated PET Film
1. Superior Ink Adhesion
Ensures consistent, high-quality print performance with UV, flexo, and digital inks.
2. Enhanced Lamination
Supports strong bonds in multilayer laminates for flexible packaging and labels.
3. Cost Efficiency for U.S. Converters
Minimizes rework and waste, lowering overall production costs.
4. Versatility
Compatible with coatings, adhesives, and specialty finishes common in U.S. packaging.
Applications in U.S. Labels & Packaging
- Food & Beverage Labels: Beer, water, and soft drink labels printed on corona treated PET for moisture resistance.
- Household & Industrial Labels: Durable chemical-resistant labels for cleaning products and lubricants.
- Health & Beauty: High-gloss, smudge-resistant labels for cosmetics and personal care.
- Flexible Packaging: Laminated pouches and wraps requiring strong printability and adhesion.
Technical Specs to Consider
- Surface energy level: Typically ≥ 38 dynes/cm for consistent adhesion.
- Film thickness: Custom gauges available depending on label application.
- Treatment retention: Pilcher Hamilton films maintain surface energy over storage and converting periods.
- FDA compliance: Suitable for food contact packaging applications in the USA.
Why Source Corona Treated PET from Pilcher Hamilton
- 120+ years of U.S. converting expertise
- Custom slitting, widths, and roll sizes to match label converters’ needs
- Nationwide supply for quick turnaround times
- Technical support for adhesion and printability challenges
👉 Get the best results in label printability and adhesion. Contact Pilcher Hamilton today to source corona treated PET film in the USA.