Welcome to AD Procerta, your globally accredited ISO 17025 label testing lab. We offer customized testing for your unique packaging needs. Save time and reduce risk with our expert analysis.
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The world of labeling materials can be difficult to navigate at times. From prefilled syringes to car engines to chemical drums to champagne bottles, labels for demanding applications have unique requirements. Testing materials and applications and understanding how labels will perform in specific conditions and environments are just a few of the challenges and variables involved in selecting the best options for your products. Not to mention the various regulatory and legal requirements that must be kept in mind and adhered to at all times. It can become complicated and time-consuming.
At AD Procerta, we take this into our own hands. The combination of our unparalleled expertise, high-end technologies, and best-in-class facilities allow us to provide highly streamlined material testing and qualification services for various demanding applications. We make the complex simple and efficient while never sacrificing quality.
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About us
AD Procerta is part of Avery Dennison, a world leader in materials science. With over 80 years of R&D expertise in the self-adhesive materials industry, we fully understand the often-complicated dynamics between products, packaging, and label materials. This enables us to support our customers worldwide from the most demanding sectors, such as pharmaceuticals or automotive.
Our history
Our state-of-the-art laboratory in Leiden Bio Science Park, the Netherlands, provides access to a wide range of testing capabilities. We have been developing methods and protocols to meet the specific needs of various industries, such as adhesion performance, mandrel (small diameter) hold, high-speed dispensing, print durability, and chemical resistance to supplement FINAT standard testing. You name it, we’ve got it covered.
The Labs
Our two specialist Labs:
Offers material performance testing of physical properties in real-life conditions (including aging)
Quality is a top priority for us. With our recent ISO 17025 accreditation, we affirm our commitment and technical proficiency to deliver dependable and accurate testing services for our customers.
Our quality standards
Quality is extremely important to us. We operate in accordance with ISO 17025 standards and are technically capable of providing you with reliable and valid testing services. We also want to emphasize that we approach all work independently and impartially.
ISO 17025 standard
Application Lab Offers material performance testing of physical properties in real-life conditions (including aging) Analytical and Physical lab Offers extractable analysis through spectroscopy and chromatography
That’s when the idea came to us. Why don’t we use our expertise to help pharmaceutical brand owners overcome these challenges ourselves? So that’s exactly what we’ve done. Our state-of-the-art laboratory in Leiden Bio Science Park, the Netherlands, provides you with access to a wide range of testing capabilities. We developed methods and protocols to meet the specific needs of the industry, such as mandrel (small diameter) performance, high-speed dispensing, sterilization resistance, and print durability, to supplement FINAT standard testing. You name it, we’ve got it covered.
AD Procerta is part of Avery Dennison, a world leader in materials science. As a result, we can combine our material expertise with our deep knowledge of both regulatory and legal requirements to support our pharmaceutical customers around the world. Through our conversations with customers and our research, we revealed a need for a specialized testing institute in Europe that could provide pharmaceutical brands with label application testing services. While some testing institutes offer generic label testing, they often struggle to meet the high standards and requirements of pharmaceutical companies and often have very long lead times.
Through our conversations with customers and our research, we uncovered a need for a European specialized testing institute that could provide brands with label application testing services.
While some testing institutes offer generic label testing, they often struggle to understand the nuances of self-adhesive materials and the selection of appropriate tests that will deliver meaningful results to the client—and they often have very long lead times.
That’s when the idea came to us. Why don’t we use our expertise to help brand owners overcome these challenges?
So that’s exactly what we’ve done.
Application lab
Offers extractable analysis through spectroscopy and chromatography
Analytical and physical lab
We also want to emphasize that we approach all work independently and impartially.
Application Lab
We take pride in our commitment to quality and excellence. As an ISO 17025 accredited label material testing laboratory by the Dutch RVA, we strictly follow the highest testing standards. This accreditation recognizes our technical competence and reliability in providing accurate and dependable testing services. What does this mean for customers? Every test conducted in our facility is performed with precision and in accordance with the guidelines, ensuring our results are accurate and consistent.
ISO 17025 is an internationally recognized standard that specifies the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. It sets out criteria for quality management systems and technical operations, ensuring laboratories consistently produce accurate and reliable results. ISO 17025 accreditation demonstrates a laboratory's ability to perform testing and calibration activities competently, enhancing confidence in the reliability and accuracy of its services. You can read more about ISO 17025 here.
What is ISO 17025?
The use of artificial weathering machines to evaluate materials' outdoor durability. An optical filter and Xenon Arc lamps are used to reproduce the spectrum of natural sunlight closely. Because water also contributes to material degradation, the machine sprays water onto the test panels. As part of our outdoor weathering tests, the weathering machine is programmed as follows, according to D4956: –102 minutes of only light exposure and –18 minutes of light exposure and water spray. At a relative humidity of 50%, the chamber temperature of the machine is set at 47°C, and the black panel temperature at 70°C. The 200 hours of testing simulate three months of vertical outdoor application in a mid-to-northern European climate facing south
Outdoor weathering
We have more information about this under Services.
To simulate the effect of temperature on printed labels, we perform tests based on UL 969 part 7.1. For PET-based labels, a 'normal' service temperature range is up to 150°C. Our labels are exposed for 10 days to a defined temperature, and we test them at 150°C and 180°C to ensure they can withstand high temperatures after they are applied.
High-temperature resistance
The use of artificial weathering machines to evaluate materials' outdoor durability. An optical filter and Xenon Arc lamps are used to reproduce the spectrum of natural sunlight closely. Because water also contributes to material degradation, the machine sprays water onto the test panels. As part of our outdoor weathering tests, the weathering machine is programmed as follows, according to D4956: –102 minutes of only light exposure and –18 minutes of light exposure and water spray. At a relative humidity of 50%, the chamber temperature of the machine is set at 47°C, and the black panel temperature at 70°C. The 200 hours of testing simulate three months of vertical outdoor application in a mid-to-northern European climate facing south.
The conditioning and simulation of environmental factors influence label behavior. Here are some examples of conditioning treatments used in automotive and industrial settings.
The average lifespan of a car in Europe ranges from 8 to 35 years. A label placed on an engine, airbag, or under the hood must also last this long. Thus, longevity is critical; fortunately, a wide variety of tests can be conducted to validate a label’s durability. These include peel adhesion on specific substrates as well as simulation of environmental exposure conditions—think high or low temperatures, humidity, and outdoor weathering. And finally, the resistance of printed labels against chemicals and abrasion can also be tested.
Automotive and industrial applications
Crafting premium wines and spirits is an art form, and the label designs contribute as much to the overall experience as the liquid itself. From the moment a bottle leaves the vineyard to when it's poured into a glass, the label is exposed to a range of environmental conditions, such as temperature changes during storage and wet and icy conditions during consumption. At AD Procerta, we understand the importance of label durability and appeal, which is why we've developed cutting-edge ice bucket testing protocols honed through years of experience working with top brand owners. These protocols can be tailored to meet specific needs, ensuring that labels maintain their flawless aesthetics no matter what adverse conditions they face.
Premium wine and spirit applications
When it comes to demanding labeling applications, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. That is why AD Procerta’s diverse knowledge and technologies are crucial, as we can facilitate the development of testing methods that closely mimic each product’s real-life application and environment.
Our testing capabilities
In 1935, the first self-adhesive label was created by Stan Avery, the founder of our parent organization Avery Dennison. Today, Avery Dennison remains the market leader in pressure-sensitive labels (PSLs), and with manufacturing sites around the globe, our materials are available in more than 50 countries. Since we have been in the business for over 80 years, we understand how the unique combination of facestock, adhesive, and liner affects your individual applications.
A typical label material is a construction made up of a front material (paper or filmic), adhesive (emulsion, solvent, or rubber-based), and label carrier/liner (paper or filmic).
Pioneering in the world of self-adhesive labels
Our segments
Our expertize
The average lifespan of a car in Europe ranges from 8 to 35 years. A label placed on an engine, airbag, or under the hood must also last for this long. Thus, longevity is critical; fortunately, a wide variety of tests can be conducted to validate a label’s durability. These include peel adhesion on specific substrates as well as simulation of environmental exposure conditions—think high or low temperatures, humidity, and outdoor weathering. And finally, the resistance of printed labels against chemicals and abrasion can also be tested. The conditioning and simulation of environmental factors influence label behavior. Here are some examples of conditioning treatments used in automotive and industrial settings.
Pharmaceutical applications
Mandrel hold is critical for application on small objects (below 15 mm diameters) like syringes, vials, cables, or bottlenecks. Label materials are applied on a specific substrate, and (following conditioning or dwell time) the label edge lift is measured by a high-precision camera system which can detect the slightest edge lifting of the label from the substrate.
Mandrel testing - camera system
Pharmaceutical and Healthcare
In Champagne packaging, the most crucial test is whether the label will remain intact and flawless after immersion in ice. Firstly the label is applied to the bottle in an automatic application. Afterward, 50% of the label is immersed in room-temperature water for 4 hours. Observation of the potential color change of the paper takes place after 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, 3 hours, and 4 hours. Common failure modes include pleads, discoloration, and peeling of the label.
“Ice bucket” test
Print durability - Sutherland rub tester
Another print durability standard is ASTM D5264 using the Sutherland tester. During the trial, a weighted test strip moves over a printed label through a simulating arc abrasion. The typical test consists of 500 or 1000 strokes indicating the possible impact of abrasion during shipping, handling, or end use.
We understand that your pharmaceutical products are one-of-a-kind, and our service reflects that. Over 100 instruments are used for extensive testing in application and conditioning, and we take a tailored approach to each project, using testing protocols that are bespoke to your specific product rather than general FINAT or ASTM guidelines. For typical pharmaceutical application requirements, we have specific conditioning equipment such as centrifuge and autoclave sterilization units, ultra-low temperature freezers (-80°C), cooling chambers, label dispensing units and climate chambers to name only a few.
Our services
Our team consists of researchers and technicians with strong backgrounds in materials science and demanding applications. These experts can guide you through the various material considerations, discuss testing protocols and results, and assist you in qualifying the right solutions based on their many years of experience.
Application testing
Initial tack - label adhesion to the substrate
The so-called loop tack test measures immediate adhesion to the substrate by assessing the force needed to separate the label from it. It is critical to have this information when labeling materials that will be dispensed and labeled on high-speed packaging lines. The loop tack measurement can be conducted under different conditions with variables ranging from temperature, speed, substrate, and dwell time. Loop tack testing is most commonly governed by two standards: FTM 9 and ASTM D6195.
Print durability - Taber test
The Taber Rotary Abraser test simulates mechanical friction and rubbing on a printed, durable label material. Trials are based on the ASTM D4060 standards, and the apparatus is used as an accelerated wear tester and involves mounting a test specimen to a flat turntable platform. Two Taber CS10 abrasive wheels are lowered onto the test specimen at a load of 500g, and after setting up the machine, the test is started by rotation of the turntable platform. One test cycle is a 360° rotation of the platform during which the abrasive wheels rub/wear the sample material. The full test comprises 100 cycles in total.
Climate chambers (aging) Centrifuge unit Autoclave sterilization unit Ovens (+1200°C) Low-temperature storage (≥ +2°C) Ultra-deep freezers (-80°C) Liquid nitrogen storage containers (-196°C) In-line labeling Variable information printing Laser engraving
Appropriate conditioning of the labeled items is critical in simulating the impact of temperature, time, humidity, and UV exposure on the material. As part of this process, our laboratory has various testing equipment.
• • • • • • • • • •
Conditioning capabilities
The goal of application testing is to mimic the actual lifecycle and environment of the packaging solution with as much accuracy as possible, focusing on the label material to achieve maximum performance.
The following are just a few examples of what our experts can do for you.
Label peel adhesion test is used to measure the strength of the bond between a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and a substrate. The test involves peeling a label from a surface at a specific angle and speed and measuring the force required. Different methods exist, such as the 90-degree peel test, the 180-degree peel test, each with specific parameters to measure the strength of the bond. Additianl conditions like temperature can be also adjusted.
Peel adhesion
Our process
As an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, you can rest assured that we are technically equipped to provide reliable and valid testing services. All tests and reports we prepare for you remain confidential within the framework of a non-disclosure agreement. Ultimately, working with AD Procerta is hassle-free.
Connect with us via the contact form, and one of our experts will get back to you as soon as possible.
In collaboration with your engineers, we will discuss the details of your application, critical points and recommend the best test methods.
Using the information we discussed, our lab lead will prepare a test proposal, and our commercial team will create a quotation.
The test report will be provided to you after the tests are completed. We will gladly discuss the results with you and make any additional revisions needed. The report is considered final only after you accept it.
Following acceptance of our offer, you will have to submit the material samples, after which our lab will begin working on your request immediately.
The order will be closed once you receive and accept the final report. Your samples will be returned or destroyed according to your instructions.
We value the security and privacy of your data. As a result, all AD Procerta tests and reports are treated with utmost confidentiality within the framework of a non-disclosure agreement.
Our team consists of researchers and technicians with strong backgrounds in materials science and demanding applications. These experts can guide you through the various material considerations, discuss testing protocols and results, and assist you in qualifying the right solutions based on their many years of experience. The goal of application testing is to mimic the actual lifecycle and environment of the packaging solution with as much accuracy as possible, focusing on the label material to achieve maximum performance. The following are just a few examples of what our experts can do for you.
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Resources
21 Mar 2023
Revolutionizing Label Material Testing
10 Mar 2022
Transforming the world of label material testing for Pharma
Avery Dennison launches a new label testing service
02 May 2024
Our label testing service earns ISO 17025 accreditation
05 Jun 2022
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02 Mar 2022
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Brochure
21 June 2024
Anthi Schoina on the key elements of label material testing
You can dive into our full glossary below if you need some help brushing up on technical terms. We could all certainly benefit from understanding what terms like “smudge resistance” and “supercalendered paper” mean.
DOWNLOAD OUR GLOSSARY
The adhesion determined by the force required to remove adhesive-coated material, which has been applied to a standard test plate under specified conditions from the plate at a certain angle and speed (please refer to FINAT Test Method FTM 1 and FTM 2).
Adhesion, peel
Emulsion adhesives are acrylic polymer adhesives that are suspended in water. This type of adhesive is widely used throughout a variety of segments/markets.
Adhesive, emulsion acrylic
The adhesive is liquefied for coating during the laminate manufacturing process by heating it to a high temperature.
Adhesive, hot melt rubber
A pure polymer adhesive with no molecular weight additives such as resins. Here, the adhesive stays on the surface of the bottle and does not migrate through to contaminate the contents. The highest risk is on thin-wall low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers which have low barrier properties.
Adhesive, low-migration
An adhesive that uses a solvent as a carrier. This type of adhesive is normally used where high resistance to chemicals, heat, or moisture is required.
Adhesive, solvent acrylic
An adhesive that uses a solvent as a carrier. This type of adhesive has a high initial tack and is normally used for difficult and rough surfaces.
Adhesive, solvent rubber
The weight, or mass of paper in grams per square meter (gsm).
Basis weight
Resistance to alcohol, organic solvents, petrochemical solvents, etc. Chemical resistance tests should simulate the end-user application cleaning conditions: where a label is cleaned by chance during general cleaning of the product, rather than a deliberate attempt to clean the label directly. These tests are required for different standards. Some of the tests include – based on IEC EN 60601-1 part 7.1.3: 15 seconds of wiping with a cotton cloth saturated with hexane. Our chosen load for wiping (not defined by the standard) is 1kg – based on IEC EN 60335-1 part 7.14: 15 seconds of wiping with a saturated cotton cloth, first saturated with methylated spirit and then with isopropyl alcohol – TL 52038 4.2: 10 rubs with a gasoline- saturated cotton cloth. Our chosen load for wiping (not defined by the standard) is 1kg.
Chemical resistance
Labels are printed on a web of paper or film laminate which is then die-cut to create the individual labels. The die-cutting process cuts through the facestock and adhesive but not through the liner.
Die-cutting
A label that cannot be removed from a substrate without damaging it, thus rendering re-use impossible and leaving a trace of attempted manipulation/opening on the package.
Label, destructible; Label, tamperproof
A self-adhesive laminate is a construction made up of a facestock, adhesive and release-coated liner. This laminate is printed and die-cut to produce labels. It is also referred to as a PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive) laminate.
Laminate
A printing paper that has been coated to achieve a certain paper quality such as gloss finish, smoothness or reduced ink absorbency
Machine coated paper
Avery Dennison has an internal qualification procedure to ensure good print quality. A dedicated test chart is printed on the relevant printer platform and substrate, and print quality and compatibility with the substrates are then judged against specific parameters. Print sharpness is evaluated based on text quality and barcode readability (ANSI standard). Color and uniformity are also evaluated, based on the measurements of micro grain, macro mottle and voids.
Print quality
The force required to separate a pressure-sensitive label from its liner. A relatively low force is referred to as ‘easy’, while a high force is termed ‘tight’.
Release
The force required to separate a pressure-sensitive adhesive-coated material from its liner (or vice versa) at an angle of 180°C and at jaw separation rates between 10 and 300m per minute (see FINAT Test Method FTM 4).
Release force, high speed; low speed
The bottom layer in a self-adhesive laminate. This can be paper or film and has a silicone coating on the upper surface from which the adhesive releases easily.
Release liner
The inks’ resistance to smearing once applied to a material.
Smudge resistance
A process that kills microorganisms that might be present. If this is to be performed after labeling, care must be taken in selecting the correct laminate.
Sterilisation
The ability to maintain product properties during the sterilization process.
Sterilisation resistance
A term normally used to describe the type of surface to which the label will be applied, eg plastic bottle, glass bottle, cardboard carton etc.
Substrate
Paper that has been passed through a series of nips (between steel and hard polymer rolls) under high-pressure and/or temperature to impart improved properties such as smoothness, gloss and increased density.
Supercalendered paper
A paper with a white or colored pigment coating on the printing surface.
Surface coated paper
The temperature at the point when the label is applied. Application temperature can impact how quickly a laminate bonds with the surface to which it is applied, and potentially how strong that bond is.
Temperature, application
The range within which the adhesive will function once the label has been applied and allowed to achieve maximum adhesion.
Temperature, service
Specifically for label materials based on PET, we define a ‘normal’ service temperature range of up to 150°C. To simulate the effect of temperature on printed labels we perform tests based on UL 969 part 7.1. Labels are exposed for 10 days to a defined temperature, and we test at both 150° and 180°C. This ensures that the printed label will be able to resist high-temperature environments after application.
Temperature resistance
SuperUV equipment is used to investigate printed label material performance when exposed to UV radiation. The machine uniformly irradiates the printed sample material using a high-intensity UV source. UV wavelengths that are not part of normal sunlight are excluded in order to limit the introduction of artificial failures in the material. This test does not correlate to any weathering simulations, so it does not consider light cycles, temperature changes or humidity. It can, however, be used to indicate the resistance of inks to UV exposure. 27h of testing simulates 1 year of vertical exposure to exclusively UV radiation in northern Europe.
UV resistance
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Related news
Transforming the World of Label Material Testing for Pharma
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Our Avery Dennison specialized testing institute, AD Procerta, which launched in 2022, is now expanding its services to include industries beyond the pharmaceutical sector. Labeling materials can be challenging to navigate, so we provide streamlined material testing and qualification services for demanding applications in various sectors, which now also encompass the automotive, white goods and electronics industries, as well as wine and spirits industries. When it comes to testing labeling materials, it’s no secret that the process can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Whether it’s prefilled syringes, car engines, or champagne bottles, labels for unique and demanding applications have distinct requirements. Selecting the best options for products and understanding how these will perform in different conditions are just some of the difficulties and variables brands face. At AD Procerta, we take on this challenge by combining our expertise, high-end technologies, and best-in-class facilities to provide highly streamlined material testing and qualification services. We understand the often-complicated dynamics between products, packaging, and label materials, with over 80 years of R&D knowledge in the self-adhesive industry. This enables us to support customers worldwide from the most competitive sectors.
AD Procerta: Your go-to partner for label material testing in complex applications
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Did you know that the average lifespan of a car in Europe spans from 8 to 35 years? Despite the wide range, it’s important to note that labels placed on engines, airbags, or under the hood must endure the same amount of time. Similar challenges can also be seen in the appliances and electronics industries. Thus, longevity is critical, and fortunately, we can conduct various tests to validate labels’ durability. These include peel adhesion on specific substrates, simulation of environmental exposure conditions, and testing the resistance of printed labels against chemicals and abrasion.
We also use other critical methods, such as loop tack testing, to assess the label’s immediate adhesion to the substrate. The loop tack measurement can be conducted under different conditions, such as temperature, speed, substrate, and dwell time, to ensure the label adheres well under all operating scenarios. Furthermore, AD Procerta can run outdoor weathering tests to evaluate the label material’s durability when exposed to sunlight and water, which are critical for automotive applications. The weathering machine is programmed to simulate months of outdoor exposure in a mid-to-northern European climate facing south, ensuring that the label material’s durability can withstand the harshest conditions.
Label test methods for small-diameter containers like bottle necks in the wine and spirits industry also present challenges due to the requirements of these applications. These materials must conform to the neck’s curved surface, withstand the filling process, and remain legible and aesthetically pleasing throughout the product’s life. In fact, according to a survey conducted by Wine Intelligence, 66% of US consumers agreed that the appearance of a wine bottle is important when choosing one, while 70% of UK consumers stated that the packaging is a key factor in influencing their purchasing decision. However, the challenge concerns more than just how products appear on shelves. Another essential visual factor to consider when it comes to labels on wine and spirits products is that they must be able to withstand environmental elements like moisture and temperature variations.
Wine and spirits industry testing capabilities
Ultimately, labels for complex applications must undergo unique testing methods to ensure their performance in specific environments and conditions. AD Procerta rises to this task, making the complex accessible and understandable yet never sacrificing quality. While we understand that some testing institutes offer generic label testing, they often find it hard to understand the nuances of self-adhesive materials and how to select tests that will provide meaningful results. As a supplement to FINAT standard testing, we have developed methods and protocols to meet the individual needs of various industries in our state-of-the-art laboratory in the Netherlands.
Summary
Ready to take your label material testing process to the next level?
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The world of pharmaceutical packaging can be difficult to navigate at times. Everything must be carefully considered and thoroughly tested, from the overall packaging to the label materials. Determining the most suitable options for products involves numerous factors and obstacles, from testing material applications to analyzing label performance in specific environments. AD Procerta, our new lab and testing facility service, was launched recently to address this challenge and streamline the testing process for labels.
Automotive, white goods and electronics industry testing capabilities
AD Procerta utilizes various testing methods to ensure that label materials for these products meet the industry’s requirements. For instance, our “ice bucket” test evaluates the label’s ability to remain intact and flawless after immersion in ice—a critical factor for champagne packaging. Observation of the potential color change of the paper takes place after specified intervals, ensuring that the label remains legible and aesthetically pleasing throughout the product’s life.
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Transforming the world of label material testing for pharma
21 Mar 2022
There is no denying that pharmaceutical label materials can often be difficult to navigate and manage. Determining the most suitable solution for products involves numerous factors and obstacles, from testing material applications to analyzing label performance in specific environments. As a result, pharmaceutical packaging engineers and brand owners are in dire need of a service that can assist them in streamlining this process as much as possible.
That’s where AD Procerta comes in, a new laboratory and testing facility service which is part of Avery Dennison, a global leader in the packaging industry. We talked with Jos van Noort, Principal Scientist Global Pharma Innovations and Benoît Jourde, Senior Manager New Growth Platforms Europe (both at Avery Dennison) who, along with many other experts, were instrumental in the development of AD Procerta. They explored topics such as the needs of the pharmaceutical industry and advised on some factors to consider when selecting the right label material.
TM
There appear to be numerous parameters to consider when it comes to a label (not to mention the whole packaging). Is it possible to pre select a label material for a specific application without conducting time-consuming and costly in-production tests? Jos: The typical method we’ve seen in the market is that the end-user or brand owner will collect all of the CTQs (as stated in the previous question), then select the test label material with the converter, and finally perform some testing. So, we created AD Procerta, a facility where a variety of label-specific tests can be performed with the guidance of an expert team to determine whether a label is suitable for a given application. Due to AD Procerta’s experience, your cycle time for introducing new material is reduced, and you’re assured of high-quality service because we’re working according to ISO 17025 standards. Benoît: Essentially, we discovered that running labelling trials on manufacturing packaging lines can be difficult and costly (since production of the medicines must stop for the label the trial to take place). As you can imagine, it is difficult for packaging engineers to convince plant operations to allocate extra time for application trials within the plant. In response to this challenge, we created laboratories that can mimic real life-cycles to speed up selection of label materials. Using this method, we can determine which label material has the greatest likelihood of success based upon effective tests in real-life scenarios that allow them to compare and contrast the options fairly. Therefore, to answer the question - yes, it is entirely possible to select the right material for the right application without spending a lot of time and money. AD Procerta works under the umbrella of Avery Dennison Corporation, a company where Stanton Avery produced the first pressure-sensitive label approximately 100 years ago. How do you build on this knowledge? Jos: Having developed labels and innovations for labeling applications for so many years has taught us a lot about the different types of adhesives available and how to test labels vigorously. The goal of testing labels isn’t merely to ensure they stick well and have strong adhesion; it’s also to understand how they perform in the application. As noted, with nearly a century of experience creating label materials, we have always tried to bring the application inside our R&D facilities to better understand how the label should perform. We can narrow down the selection of materials for certain applications based on this information. For example, we know how labels should survive on a syringe with a very small diameter and how they should be tested for low temperatures. To accomplish this, we have built equipment that performs precise application testing. The knowledge and expertise that Avery Dennison provides in these areas are undoubtedly beneficial, and we utilize it accordingly. What can AD Procerta clients expect from you? Benoît: Our clients can expect to find an unbiased approach based upon facts and trustworthy relationships that will be kept confidential (as we typically work with non-disclosure agreements). Since we follow ISO 17025 guidelines, all test protocols that we set down with clients are done without bias, including making conclusions based on facts. Jos: Indeed, AD Procerta follows ISO 17025 guidelines, which means that all testing methods are evaluated on a regular basis and employees are continuously trained. Additionally, every piece of equipment is calibrated according to these standards. It is important to us that we operate independently in a transparent manner, and we have regular dialogs with our clients to let them know exactly what we test, how we test, and ensure that we agree on the Test Protocol before we start our work. The customer will even be notified if anything is discovered during the process that does not comply with what we originally stated. Thus, customers can expect thorough testing, comprehensive reporting, and independent analysis of the results. You’re just getting started with AD Procerta, so do you already have any pharmaceutical clients? Benoît: Yes, the service has been piloted with a few big pharmaceutical companies (whose names we can’t disclose due to confidentiality) for the past two years, and we understood from the start that our plan was to offer it to the entire market in 2022. Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.
We'll also host two live webinars where we'll talk about the technical aspects of labeling materials for pharmaceutical packaging and how we can support you. These will take place on:
• March 31, 2022 15:00 CET • April 12, 2022 11:00 CET
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That’s where AD Procerta comes in, a new laboratory and testing facility service which is part of Avery Dennison, a global leader in the packaging industry. We talked with Jos van Noort, Principal Scientist Global Pharma Innovations and Benoît Jourde, Senior Manager New Growth Platforms Europe (both at Avery Dennison) who, along with many other experts, were instrumental in the development of AD Procerta. They explored topics such as the needs of the pharmaceutical industry and advised on some factors to consider when selecting the right label material. Labels are viewed as only a small component of packaging by many people. What is your perspective on this? Benoît: The label is often the last phase of the packaging development, but it is an essential component since it will contain all the information necessary for patient safety. When it comes to printing information on products like medication, any application defects or lack of readability must really be avoided at all costs - the labels have to be highly robust. Putting it simply, you can’t use medication if its label doesn’t display all of the necessary information. But having said that, I believe people are gradually recognizing the importance of labels in packaging and are no longer putting them off until the last moment, which is a positive and essential shift. Jos: Physically, labels are a small component of a package, but they convey a great deal of information to its users. They contain crucial information such as usage and expiration dates, and each of these elements, as Benoît previously stated, are critical for a pharmaceutical product and hence deserves a great deal of time, thought, and attention. When a packaging engineer considers a labelling solution for a product’s packaging, where should they begin? Jos: If I were a packaging engineer, I’d start by gathering all of the CTQs (critical to quality) for a label. How is it applied? What is the nature of substrate? What are the conditions? What is the life-cycle of the material? These are only a few of the factors to consider. Once the packaging engineer has this information, they should contact a converter together with the label material manufacturer, such as Avery Dennison, for assistance in choosing the right label material for the application before getting started. Benoît: I agree with Jos. It’s essentially a combination of choosing the correct label material and the printing method that will be used to create the label. All of this will be influenced by the substrate’s nature, the application’s conditions, and so on. The supply chain and volume will affect the printing technology, and the printing technology will impact the label material selection. There are therefore two main factors to consider here. The first factor concerns the label’s ability to adhere to and remain on the substrate. And the second, as previously said, is the printing of medical information that is crucial to the patient. It is very important to make sure the label materials are compatible with the printing methods you choose; you can use either digital or conventional printing methods depending on your supply chain, the degree of flexibility required, the complexity level, the volume, etc. Thus, when it comes to packaging, you should consider the label material and printing technologies together instead of separately, and involve a label converter with the label material supplier, like Avery Dennison. That’s where AD Procerta comes in, a new laboratory and testing facility service which is part of Avery Dennison, a global leader in the packaging industry.
When a packaging engineer considers a labelling solution for a product’s packaging, where should they begin?
Benoît
Jos
There appear to be numerous parameters to consider when it comes to a label (not to mention the whole packaging). Is it possible to pre select a label material for a specific application without conducting time-consuming and costly in-production tests?
AD Procerta works under the umbrella of Avery Dennison Corporation, a company where Stanton Avery produced the first pressure-sensitive label approximately 100 years ago. How do you build on this knowledge? Jos: Having developed labels and innovations for labeling applications for so many years has taught us a lot about the different types of adhesives available and how to test labels vigorously. The goal of testing labels isn’t merely to ensure they stick well and have strong adhesion; it’s also to understand how they perform in the application. As noted, with nearly a century of experience creating label materials, we have always tried to bring the application inside our R&D facilities to better understand how the label should perform. We can narrow down the selection of materials for certain applications based on this information. For example, we know how labels should survive on a syringe with a very small diameter and how they should be tested for low temperatures. To accomplish this, we have built equipment that performs precise application testing. The knowledge and expertise that Avery Dennison provides in these areas are undoubtedly beneficial, and we utilize it accordingly. What can AD Procerta clients expect from you? Benoît: Our clients can expect to find an unbiased approach based upon facts and trustworthy relationships that will be kept confidential (as we typically work with non-disclosure agreements). Since we follow ISO 17025 guidelines, all test protocols that we set down with clients are done without bias, including making conclusions based on facts. Jos: Indeed, AD Procerta follows ISO 17025 guidelines, which means that all testing methods are evaluated on a regular basis and employees are continuously trained. Additionally, every piece of equipment is calibrated according to these standards. It is important to us that we operate independently in a transparent manner, and we have regular dialogs with our clients to let them know exactly what we test, how we test, and ensure that we agree on the Test Protocol before we start our work. The customer will even be notified if anything is discovered during the process that does not comply with what we originally stated. Thus, customers can expect thorough testing, comprehensive reporting, and independent analysis of the results. You’re just getting started with AD Procerta, so do you already have any pharmaceutical clients? Benoît: Yes, the service has been piloted with a few big pharmaceutical companies (whose names we can’t disclose due to confidentiality) for the past two years, and we understood from the start that our plan was to offer it to the entire market in 2022. Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.
What can AD Procerta clients expect from you? Benoît: Our clients can expect to find an unbiased approach based upon facts and trustworthy relationships that will be kept confidential (as we typically work with non-disclosure agreements). Since we follow ISO 17025 guidelines, all test protocols that we set down with clients are done without bias, including making conclusions based on facts. Jos: Indeed, AD Procerta follows ISO 17025 guidelines, which means that all testing methods are evaluated on a regular basis and employees are continuously trained. Additionally, every piece of equipment is calibrated according to these standards. It is important to us that we operate independently in a transparent manner, and we have regular dialogs with our clients to let them know exactly what we test, how we test, and ensure that we agree on the Test Protocol before we start our work. The customer will even be notified if anything is discovered during the process that does not comply with what we originally stated. Thus, customers can expect thorough testing, comprehensive reporting, and independent analysis of the results. You’re just getting started with AD Procerta, so do you already have any pharmaceutical clients? Benoît: Yes, the service has been piloted with a few big pharmaceutical companies (whose names we can’t disclose due to confidentiality) for the past two years, and we understood from the start that our plan was to offer it to the entire market in 2022. Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.
: Our clients can expect to find an unbiased approach based upon facts and trustworthy relationships that will be kept confidential (as we typically work with non-disclosure agreements). Since we follow ISO 17025 guidelines, all test protocols that we set down with clients are done without bias, including making conclusions based on facts. : Indeed, AD Procerta follows ISO 17025 guidelines, which means that all testing methods are evaluated on a regular basis and employees are continuously trained. Additionally, every piece of equipment is calibrated according to these standards. It is important to us that we operate independently in a transparent manner, and we have regular dialogs with our clients to let them know exactly what we test, how we test, and ensure that we agree on the Test Protocol before we start our work. The customer will even be notified if anything is discovered during the process that does not comply with what we originally stated. Thus, customers can expect thorough testing, comprehensive reporting, and independent analysis of the results. You’re just getting started with AD Procerta, so do you already have any pharmaceutical clients? Benoît: Yes, the service has been piloted with a few big pharmaceutical companies (whose names we can’t disclose due to confidentiality) for the past two years, and we understood from the start that our plan was to offer it to the entire market in 2022. Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.
: The label is often the last phase of the packaging development, but it is an essential component since it will contain all the information necessary for patient safety. When it comes to printing information on products like medication, any application defects or lack of readability must really be avoided at all costs - the labels have to be highly robust. Putting it simply, you can’t use medication if its label doesn’t display all of the necessary information. But having said that, I believe people are gradually recognizing the importance of labels in packaging and are no longer putting them off until the last moment, which is a positive and essential shift. : Physically, labels are a small component of a package, but they convey a great deal of information to its users. They contain crucial information such as usage and expiration dates, and each of these elements, as Benoît previously stated, are critical for a pharmaceutical product and hence deserves a great deal of time, thought, and attention.
Labels are viewed as only a small component of packaging by many people. What is your perspective on this?
: If I were a packaging engineer, I’d start by gathering all of the CTQs (critical to quality) for a label. How is it applied? What is the nature of substrate? What are the conditions? What is the life-cycle of the material? These are only a few of the factors to consider. Once the packaging engineer has this information, they should contact a converter together with the label material manufacturer, such as Avery Dennison, for assistance in choosing the right label material for the application before getting started. : I agree with Jos. It’s essentially a combination of choosing the correct label material and the printing method that will be used to create the label. All of this will be influenced by the substrate’s nature, the application’s conditions, and so on. The supply chain and volume will affect the printing technology, and the printing technology will impact the label material selection. There are therefore two main factors to consider here. The first factor concerns the label’s ability to adhere to and remain on the substrate. And the second, as previously said, is the printing of medical information that is crucial to the patient. It is very important to make sure the label materials are compatible with the printing methods you choose; you can use either digital or conventional printing methods depending on your supply chain, the degree of flexibility required, the complexity level, the volume, etc. Thus, when it comes to packaging, you should consider the label material and printing technologies together instead of separately, and involve a label converter with the label material supplier, like Avery Dennison. That’s where AD Procerta comes in, a new laboratory and testing facility service which is part of Avery Dennison, a global leader in the packaging industry.
: The typical method we’ve seen in the market is that the end-user or brand owner will collect all of the CTQs (as stated in the previous question), then select the test label material with the converter, and finally perform some testing. So, we created AD Procerta, a facility where a variety of label-specific tests can be performed with the guidance of an expert team to determine whether a label is suitable for a given application. Due to AD Procerta’s experience, your cycle time for introducing new material is reduced, and you’re assured of high-quality service because we’re working according to ISO 17025 standards. : Essentially, we discovered that running labelling trials on manufacturing packaging lines can be difficult and costly (since production of the medicines must stop for the label the trial to take place). As you can imagine, it is difficult for packaging engineers to convince plant operations to allocate extra time for application trials within the plant. In response to this challenge, we created laboratories that can mimic real life-cycles to speed up selection of label materials. Using this method, we can determine which label material has the greatest likelihood of success based upon effective tests in real-life scenarios that allow them to compare and contrast the options fairly. Therefore, to answer the question - yes, it is entirely possible to select the right material for the right application without spending a lot of time and money.
AD Procerta works under the umbrella of Avery Dennison Corporation, a company where Stanton Avery produced the first pressure-sensitive label approximately 100 years ago. How do you build on this knowledge?
: Having developed labels and innovations for labeling applications for so many years has taught us a lot about the different types of adhesives available and how to test labels vigorously. The goal of testing labels isn’t merely to ensure they stick well and have strong adhesion; it’s also to understand how they perform in the application. As noted, with nearly a century of experience creating label materials, we have always tried to bring the application inside our R&D facilities to better understand how the label should perform. We can narrow down the selection of materials for certain applications based on this information. For example, we know how labels should survive on a syringe with a very small diameter and how they should be tested for low temperatures. To accomplish this, we have built equipment that performs precise application testing. The knowledge and expertise that Avery Dennison provides in these areas are undoubtedly beneficial, and we utilize it accordingly.
What can AD Procerta clients expect from you?
: Yes, the service has been piloted with a few big pharmaceutical companies (whose names we can’t disclose due to confidentiality) for the past two years, and we understood from the start that our plan was to offer it to the entire market in 2022. Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.
: Our clients can expect to find an unbiased approach based upon facts and trustworthy relationships that will be kept confidential (as we typically work with non-disclosure agreements). Since we follow ISO 17025 guidelines, all test protocols that we set down with clients are done without bias, including making conclusions based on facts. : Indeed, AD Procerta follows ISO 17025 guidelines, which means that all testing methods are evaluated on a regular basis and employees are continuously trained. Additionally, every piece of equipment is calibrated according to these standards. It is important to us that we operate independently in a transparent manner, and we have regular dialogs with our clients to let them know exactly what we test, how we test, and ensure that we agree on the Test Protocol before we start our work. The customer will even be notified if anything is discovered during the process that does not comply with what we originally stated. Thus, customers can expect thorough testing, comprehensive reporting, and independent analysis of the results.
You’re just getting started with AD Procerta, so do you already have any pharmaceutical clients?
Benoit Jourde benoit.jourde@eu.averydennison.com
Benoit Jourde
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benoit.jourde@eu.averydennison.com
Redefining the industry status quo by streamlining the testing process for pharmaceutical label materials with AD Procerta .
OEGSTGEEST, The Netherlands — Avery Dennison announces the launch of AD Procerta , a new laboratory and testing facility service that is set to transform how the pharmaceutical industry navigates the often complex world of label material testing.
Why is it needed?
There are many variables involved when creating labels for pharmaceutical products, such as medications, which need to be executed and applied perfectly for patient safety. Understanding the numerous legal and regulatory requirements and how labels will perform in specific environments, to ensure that the labels are robust enough to meet the demands of the end-user. There are countless factors that need to be considered and pharmaceutical packaging engineers along with brand owners now have access to a service that can simplify and streamline this process. “We identified a market need,” states Benoît Jourde, Senior Manager New Growth Platforms Europe, Avery Dennison. “It is a market need that is not really fulfilled at the moment. Although there are some excellent third-party laboratories out there, they are either missing the expertise specifically on self-adhesive labels, or they have extremely long lead times.” That’s where Avery Dennison’s long-standing history in materials science, combined with AD Procerta’s fresh, independent and reliable approach can prove valuable. It speeds up the process, provides fact-based information, and offers facilities that can accommodate specific testing methods.
Press Release blurb:
Leiden Bio Science Park in the Netherlands, is home to AD Procerta’s state-of-the-art laboratory, which provides access to a wide range of testing capabilities. “A variety of label-specific tests can be performed at the facility with the guidance of an expert team to determine whether a label material is suitable for a given application,” says Jos van Noort, Principal Scientist Global Pharma Innovations, Avery Dennison. “We simulate real-world conditions in our laboratories and narrow down the options for testing materials,’’ adds Benoit. It offers customers a number of choices that have all been thoroughly tested in real-life scenarios, allowing them to compare and contrast the options fairly. A few big pharmaceutical companies have piloted the service over the last two years, with the goal of launching it this year. “Having learned from these pilot customers, we’re now working with more than 5 large pharma companies and a few smaller ones as well.” concludes Benoit.
About Avery Dennison
Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science company specializing in the design and manufacture of a wide variety of labeling and functional materials. The company’s products, which are used in nearly every major industry, include pressure-sensitive materials for labels and graphic applications; tapes and other bonding solutions for industrial, medical, and retail applications; tags, labels and embellishments for apparel; and radio frequency identification (RFID) solutions serving retail apparel and other markets. Headquartered in Glendale, California, the company employs more than 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Reported sales in 2021 were $8.4 billion. Learn more at averydennison.com.
The Lab and Experts
Media contact Mirrijne Pluim mirrijne.pluim@eu.averydennison.com
Media contact:
mirrijne.pluim@eu.averydennison.com
Mirrijne Pluim
AD Procerta™ received ISO 17025 accreditation, recognizing the credibility, accuracy and reliability of its label testing
OEGSTGEEST, The Netherlands—May 2, 2024—Avery Dennison announces that its label testing service, AD Procerta™, has received ISO 17025 accreditation from the esteemed Dutch RvA, a first in the industry.
Launched in 2022, AD Procerta is an in-house testing service built to support brands within the pharmaceutical, automotive, and premium FMCG industries through the complex label qualification process, ensuring their products meet the highest quality and compliance standards. This ISO 17025 accreditation underscores AD Procerta's ability to produce test results that are reliable, credible, and accurate. ISO 17025 is universally recognized as the leading standard for testing and calibration laboratories. It carries substantial value, offering quality assurance, risk mitigation, and enhanced trust and confidentiality. It also facilitates market access by assuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards, which is especially pertinent in highly regulated industries. The unique value of AD Procerta lies in its application-specific testing that goes beyond industry standards and includes protocols developed by Avery Dennison based on clients' needs. Established in Europe, it offers short lead times and leverages over 80 years of expertise in pressure-sensitive materials to provide specialized insights, guidance and, if necessary, product development within the broader Avery Dennison group. This means that brands can rest assured that when AD Procerta concludes that something doesn't work for a particular application, the wider organization has sufficient expertise to potentially develop something tailor made.
And for brands, the ISO 17025 accreditation is a quality stamp proving that the laboratory is meeting the highest standards in terms of testing and quality. “AD Procerta offers bespoke testing proposals that go beyond general FINAT tests or ASTM protocols, offering processes that mimic every client's real lifecycle of products while at the same time maintaining the highest quality standards to ensure accuracy and reliability,” explains Anthi Schoina, R&D Lab Lead at AD Procerta. “This ensures they receive not only accurate test results but also tailored advice and guidance that explains the meaning of these test results in great depth and provides additional context.” Ultimately, with AD Procerta, brands gain a partner equipped to provide bespoke testing proposals while also assuring that their products are compliant and set the standard for quality and reliability in their respective markets. Curious to learn more about label material testing? Join our live event on May 28th and learn how constructing the right label can transform your packaging with AD Procerta's ISO 17025-accredited services
Anthi Schoina talks about label testing results that deliver confidence
Expert in focus: Anthi Schoina
When it comes to label material testing, Anthi Schoina brings a wealth of experience to her role as the R&D Laboratory Lead of AD Procerta—Avery Dennison's testing facility service. With a BSc in Chemistry and an MSc in Forensic Science coupled with a team leadership, project management, and laboratory research background, Anthi has held various roles, including Chemist and Lab Supervisor over the last 15 years. Having been the driving force behind ADProcerta's recent ISO 17025 accreditation, Anthi sheds light on the importance of precise testing and its impact on the packaging industry.
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The characteristics of reliable and accurate testing services
Delivering a high-quality testing service is a complex process that involves more than just technical know-how. It all starts with people. At AD Procerta, for example, our team is composed of highly skilled and committed professionals who ensure that every test is conducted with precision and care. Transparent and traceable procedures are an important cornerstone of a good testing service. We document every step of our processes, ensuring that all activities can be traced back and verified. This builds trust with our clients and allows us to maintain the integrity of our results. Regular maintenance and calibrated equipment are equally fundamental to achieving accurate results, and we invest heavily in state-of-the-art equipment and ensure its regular maintenance to perform at its best consistently. And finally, good communication with our customers is also very important. We are all about open and ongoing dialogue with our clients, taking their feedback seriously, and constantly working to improve our services. After all, understanding customer needs is key, and that begins with asking the right questions. Often, customers request specific tests, believing they will provide the insights they need. But through in-depth discussions, we often discover that a different set of tests is needed to truly address their concerns. This collaborative approach ensures we deliver the most accurate results, ultimately solving the customer's problem more efficiently.
Application testing vs generic testing
Application testing for labels and packaging is exceptionally important as it provides insights beyond what generic testing and Technical Data Sheets (TDS) offer. TDS give standardized product information, but application testing determines how materials perform under specific, real-world conditions. For example, label materials are often tested on glass surfaces, but the properties of glass can vary. Factors like curvature, coatings, and environmental conditions can all impact the label's performance. Conducting application-based testing (on the actual packaging or real life packaging) is a proactive measure that allows us to simulate scenario-based conditions, ensuring that products meet industry regulations and perform as expected throughout their lifecycle. This is particularly important in sensitive sectors like food and pharmaceuticals, where compliance with stringent standards is a must. By running thorough application testing, we can verify the durability and functionality of our labels and packaging, thus helping prevent production inefficiencies or packaging failure while also protecting clients' brand reputation. Ultimately, this testing approach boosts consumer satisfaction by guaranteeing that packaging and labels meet high performance and reliability standards in their actual usage environments, providing a sense of security and peace of mind.
Accuracy of lab test results
Some brand owners might be hesitant when it comes to testing product labels in laboratories, but they can be confident in the accuracy of our lab test results. At AD Procerta, we follow internationally recognized FINAT and ASTM methods. And as mentioned before, we mimic real-life conditions as closely as possible to draw accurate conclusions about the behavior of labels and packaging. Our team of experts has decades of experience across various industries, bringing invaluable knowledge to the table. Our goal is to equip brand owners with a comprehensive understanding of how their products will perform in their intended environments. By choosing AD Procerta, you're choosing accuracy and reliability. We are confident about our results, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your labels and packaging. With us, you can be sure that your products are tested under the most realistic conditions, giving you the assurance you need. For more information on how we can support your testing needs, get in touch with us directly or via email at adprocerta@eu.averydennison.com.
