What are the types of label adhesives? Comprehensive analysis of permanent adhesive, removable adhesive, and freezer adhesive

Choosing the wrong adhesive makes even the best face material useless

Self-adhesive labels have a three-layer structure: face material, adhesive, and release liner. Although the adhesive is invisible, it is the core that determines whether the label sticks firmly, lasts long, and leaves no residue. Choosing the wrong adhesive may cause the label to lift or fall off within a week. The following analyzes four common adhesive types.

Permanent adhesive: Sticks once for life, suitable for fixed identification

Permanent adhesive (also known as strong adhesive) is the most commonly used type, difficult to remove entirely after application. It has strong initial and final adhesion, suitable for scenarios requiring long-term fixation such as equipment nameplates, safety labels, and product labels. It performs best on smooth surfaces (glass, metal, smooth plastic). Rough surfaces (e.g., corrugated cardboard) require high-tack permanent adhesive. Note: Permanent adhesive may leave residue when peeled off after low temperature or aging. For rough surfaces or long-term outdoor applications, it is recommended to request samples for adhesion testing.

Removable adhesive: Leaves no residue, suitable for temporary identification

Removable adhesive can be peeled off entirely after application, leaving no or minimal residue. Suitable for promotional labels, price tags, and markings on recyclable packaging. Removable adhesive has lower adhesion than permanent adhesive and may not stick well on rough or powdery surfaces. The longer it is applied, the lower its removability—removal difficulty increases after over 6 months. It is recommended to remove within the expected usage period (usually within 3 months) for best results.

Freezer adhesive: Reliable choice for low-temperature environments

Freezer adhesive is a specialized adhesive developed for low-temperature environments, maintaining elasticity and adhesion at temperatures below -20°C. Ordinary adhesives become brittle and lose adhesion at low temperatures. The formulation of freezer adhesive prevents it from hardening in low temperatures and also resists condensation corrosion. Freezer adhesive needs to be paired with suitable face materials: synthetic paper or PET is recommended. Coated paper absorbs moisture and deforms in freezing environments, causing lifting even with freezer adhesive. In cold chain logistics, the low-temperature compatibility of face material, adhesive, and lamination must be considered together.

Repositionable adhesive and specialty adhesives

Repositionable adhesive falls between permanent and removable adhesives, allowing multiple applications and removals without damaging the surface. Suitable for scenarios requiring repeated use such as recyclable tote boxes and document seals. In addition, there are specialty adhesives such as high-temperature adhesive (above 200°C), anti-static adhesive, and conductive adhesive, designed for specific industrial scenarios. When selecting an adhesive, in addition to considering the bonding surface and ambient temperature, also pay attention to the initial adhesion (tack immediately after application) and final adhesion (tack after 24-72 hours); both are important for different scenarios.

Three-step method for adhesive selection

First step, clarify the use environment: room temperature or low temperature? Indoor or outdoor? Dry or humid? Second step, confirm the bonding surface: high surface energy (glass, metal) or low surface energy (PE, PP, silicone)? Smooth or rough? Third step, determine durability requirements: permanent fixation or temporary use? Is residue-free removal needed? After completing these three steps of evaluation, match the face material and adhesive combination. LeXiang Packaging provides a full range of label adhesive solutions, supporting the entire process from sample testing to mass production.