Adhesive Selection Guide
The same label material can perform very differently depending on the adhesive. Surface energy, texture, temperature and removal requirements all matter.
Permanent
General-purpose adhesive designed to remain attached after application.
- Boxes and cartons
- Product labels
- Inventory ID
Removable
Designed to remove more cleanly when temporary labeling is required.
- Temporary pricing
- Reusable containers
- Work-in-process
Freezer / Cold Temp
Formulated to bond and remain secure in refrigerated or frozen conditions.
- Food processing
- Cold storage
- Frozen packaging
High Tack
Higher initial grab for difficult, rough or lower-energy surfaces.
- Textured containers
- Some plastics
- Challenging surfaces
Questions that affect adhesive performance
Application temperatureHow cold or hot is the surface when the label is first applied?
Service temperatureWhat temperatures will the label experience after application?
Surface materialGlass, corrugated, metal and plastics have different bonding characteristics.
Surface textureSmooth surfaces are easier than rough, dusty or irregular surfaces.
Removal requirementShould the label remain permanently or be removed without residue?
ExposureWater, oils, cleaning chemicals and outdoor conditions may affect the construction.