Sticker Material : How to choose right material?

    Stickers have become increasingly popular due to their convenient way of allowing personal expression. Users can easily apply them to items like phone cases to showcase their style and interests. The variety of sticker designs, resulting from collaborations between designers and brands, caters to the demand for selfie accessories among young people. Stickers are also favored for their affordability and suitability as gifts, especially during special occasions. In short, stickers have become an economical yet fashionable choice for personalization. In such a popular market, choosing the right material for your stickers is crucial.

Sticker Material Structural Picture
Sticker Material Structural Picture

What Are The Different Types Of Stickers?

Due to different environmental conditions and requirements for indoor and outdoor stickers, they are broadly classified into two categories: indoor stickers and outdoor stickers. Their main differences are as follows:

Durability:

Indoor stickers are typically used under milder indoor conditions and are frequently updated, not requiring long-term use. Therefore, the durability design of indoor stickers is generally lower, usually lasting 1-2 years.

Outdoor stickers are designed for long-term exposure to outdoor environments and need to withstand rain, strong light, temperature changes, and UV radiation. These stickers are usually made from more robust and durable materials.

Materials:

Indoor stickers focus on meeting temporary needs and are designed for easy replacement to maintain novelty and style in interior decor. Therefore, they often use cost-effective, easy-to-remove, and replaceable materials. Common materials include standard paper, film, and certain types of lightweight plastic.

Outdoor stickers typically use weather-resistant and durable materials such as PVC, vinyl, reflective materials, PC, metal, or certain special synthetic materials that maintain vivid colors and structural integrity in harsh external environments.

Adhesiveness:

Indoor stickers generally have weaker adhesiveness, and their glue tends to dry out and lose stickiness after about 1-2 years.

Outdoor stickers require strong and lasting adhesiveness to ensure they remain firmly attached under harsh conditions, lasting about 3-10 years.

Purpose of Use:

Indoor stickers are commonly used for decoration, identification, or promotional activities in shops, offices, or home environments.

Outdoor stickers are more often used for advertising, brand promotion, safety signs, or vehicle decoration, requiring higher visibility and durability.

Therefore, when choosing stickers, it is important to consider their intended environment and the expected durability requirements.

Indoor Sticker Materials:

  • Paper:

  • Woodfree Paper

   Woodfree sticker paper is made from low-density fiber paper, with a surface that is relatively rougher compared to copperplate paper, but it has good ink absorption properties. Here are its advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

  1. Suitable for Various Writing and Printing Methods: Due to its surface characteristics, double offset sticker paper is compatible with a range of writing tools and printing techniques.
  2. Ideal for High-End and Artistic Labels: The fine texture on the surface makes it a preferred choice for creating luxury wine labels and artistic tags.

Disadvantages:

  1. Poor Color Reproduction: As the surface is not coated and has strong ink absorption, the printed colors may appear faded, leading to poor reproduction of image effects.
  2. Not Waterproof, Easily Torn: Double offset sticker paper lacks waterproof qualities and is prone to tearing, making it unsuitable for use in moist or durability-required environments.
  3. In summary, double offset sticker paper excels in specific applications, especially where unique writing and printing effects are needed. However, its limitations in durability and color reproduction may make it less suitable for certain uses.

Types and Applications of woodfree paper:

   Calendered writing paper labels and coated paper labels. This material is primarily used for information labels and barcode printing labels. It is especially suitable for high-speed laser printing and also applicable for inkjet printing. Widely used in supermarkets and tea packaging, some are also employed for high level liquor packaging labels, offering a retro and classic style

packaging label
Packaging Labels
  • Art Paper:

Art paper sticker paper is made from high-quality, coated copperplate paper, resulting in a smooth and fine surface that is suitable for printing and effectively reproduces image details.

Advantages:

  1. High-Quality Printing Results: Copperplate paper has a smooth surface, suitable for high-resolution printing, and accurately reproduces colors and details.
  2. Versatile Printing Compatibility: Applicable to various printing technologies, including offset, flexographic, and digital printing.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other label materials, copperplate adhesive paper is generally more economical.

Disadvantages:

  1. Poor Water and Weather Resistance: Not very suitable for outdoor use, prone to moisture damage or fading due to direct sunlight.
  2. Limited Durability: Less durable than PVC or PET materials in humid or extreme environments.
  3. Easily Tearable: As a paper-based material, copperplate paper is prone to tearing, especially during application or removal. This vulnerability limits its use in scenarios requiring high durability.
  4. In summary, copperplate adhesive paper is widely used for indoor labels and lightweight packaging due to its excellent printing quality and low cost, but its application is limited in outdoor or harsh environments.

Types and Applications of Art Paper :

Art paper is divided into two types: standard coated paper adhesive and high-gloss coated paper adhesive. They are suitable for making information labels for products such as pharmaceuticals, foods, cooking oils, alcoholic beverages, beverages, electrical appliances, and cultural goods.

thanks you sticker
thanks you sticker
kraft paper production
Kraft productiion
  • Kraft Paper :

Kraft paper is made from natural wood pulp, resulting in a material that is strong and has a thick texture. Due to its natural grain and texture, as well as its general flexibility, it is commonly used for packaging sticker designs that aim to convey a natural look. This material offers a simple yet warm natural style, making it ideal for brands and products seeking to express environmental consciousness or a natural theme. Kraft paper’s unique natural appearance is highly popular in the design field, especially in packaging and label design, adding a rustic, handmade feel to products.

Advantages:

  1. Environmentally Friendly and Recyclable: Kraft paper stickers are made from eco-friendly materials and are recyclable, contributing to reducing environmental pollution and aligning with green and sustainable principles.
  2. Durable Material: Kraft paper stickers exhibit excellent weather resistance and tear resistance, ensuring long-lasting integrity and clarity of labels. This effectively protects product information from wear and tear.
  3. Versatile Application: Kraft paper stickers adhere well to surfaces of various materials, including paper, plastic, metal, etc. This versatility makes them widely applicable in fields such as logistics, manufacturing, and retail.
  4. Easy to Print: Kraft paper stickers can be easily printed using laser or inkjet printers, ensuring clear and aesthetically pleasing information on the labels.

  Disadvantages:

  1. Relatively Higher Cost: Compared to some ordinary adhesive labels, kraft paper stickers have a higher cost, limiting their application in price-sensitive areas.
  2. Temperature and Humidity Sensitivity: Kraft paper stickers may experience shrinkage or expansion under extreme temperature and humidity conditions, affecting their adhesion and protective properties.
  3. Unstable Adhesive Performance: The adhesive properties of kraft paper stickers may be affected by environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, leading to potential issues of detachment during prolonged use.
  4. Limited Printing Effect: Due to the presence of backing paper, the printing effect of kraft paper stickers may be restricted, and any color applied may undergo color changes, making it challenging to reproduce the designed colors accurately.
  5. Not Waterproof: Being a paper-based material, kraft paper lacks waterproof properties, making it unsuitable for applications requiring water resistance.
  6. Easy to Tear: Kraft paper stickers are prone to tearing, which can result in damage or loss of durability during use.

Types and Applications of Kraft Paper:

Kraft paper can be categorized into two types based on color: yellow kraft paper adhesive and white kraft paper adhesive. It is important to note that the hue of the yellow kraft paper may vary between different manufacturers, so the choice should be made according to specific requirements.

Kraft paper is primarily used for food, wine, cultural products, and labels with ethnic styles. It is particularly suitable for labels that seek a natural, personalized, retro style, and cultural atmosphere.

Thermal receipt label
Thermal receipt label
Thermal label
Thermal label
  • Thermal Paper:

Thermal paper is coated with a thermosensitive material on a standard paper base. This coating primarily consists of two components: a colorless dye, also known as a leuco dye, and a developer. This type of thermal paper is also referred to as two-component chemical thermal recording paper. When the thermal paper is heated, the colorless dye reacts chemically with the developer, producing color. Therefore, when thermal paper is used in fax machines to receive and print signals, or when printed directly with a thermal printer, images and text become visible. Since there are various compounds used as colorless dyes, the color of the resulting text can vary, including shades like blue, purple-red, or black.

Advantages:

  1. Easy to Operate: Simple to use, requiring only a thermal printer to print desired content.
  2. Low Cost: Thermal printers are compact and affordable, with thermal paper also being relatively inexpensive.
  3. Cost Saving: Thermal paper printing doesn’t need ink or toner, reducing consumable costs.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited Print Quality: Suitable only for printing black content, cannot produce color prints.
  2. Slower Printing Speed: Compared to other printing technologies, thermal printing is usually slower.
  3. Shorter Preservation Time: Thermal paper, when exposed to sunlight for extended periods or affected by external environmental factors, along with its own chemical properties, is prone to fading in the printed areas. This fading can negatively impact the print quality and readability of the text, making thermal paper unsuitable for long-term storage.

Types and Applications of Thermal Paper:

  1. Direct Thermal Labels: These labels are coated with a heat-sensitive chemical. They are primarily printed by heating the print head, which then contacts the chemically treated thermal media label to produce the desired pattern. Thermal label printers do not require any ink, toner, or ribbon, making them relatively cost-effective. They are sensitive to heat, light, chemical solvents, and abrasion. Over time, the pattern may fade with long-term storage in everyday environments. The typical lifespan of standard thermal label content is a few months, while Bisheng’s thermal labels, which use a multi-layer lamination process, can last 1-2 years (the specific duration is influenced by actual environmental factors).

Suitable for industries with frequent label updates such as home use, catering, supermarket retail, clothing, logistics, where barcode requirements are not high.

  1. Thermal Transfer Labels: Mainly printed by heating a ribbon through the print head, transferring ink onto the label material to form a pattern. Since thermal transfer label printers require ribbons, the technology and overall costs are higher compared to direct thermal printing. They are used in environments needing resistance to moisture, heat, or chemicals. They offer quality and durability unmatched by other printing technologies, with a general lifespan of about 5 years, influenced by the quality of label paper and ribbon. Bisheng’s thermal transfer labels use high-quality resin-based ribbons, typically lasting 8-10 years.

Suitable for various industries including manufacturing, automotive, telecommunications, medical, textiles, chemical, pharmaceutical, retail distribution, transportation and logistics, government agencies, etc.

Direct Thermal Labels also come in different material types:

  1. Single Water-Resistant Thermal Paper: Provides basic water resistance and short-term storage capability. Suitable for retail, barcode printing, logistics, but not for long-term use.
  2. Triple Water-Resistant Thermal Paper: Higher quality, with waterproof, oil-resistant, and alcohol-resistant properties. Suitable for applications like electronic scales in supermarkets, clothing, and international logistics.
  3. Five-Protective Synthetic Thermal Paper: Features a thick protective layer and tear-resistant base, enhancing waterproof, oil-resistant, and wear-resistant properties. Offers high tear and tensile strength, long-term storage, and vibrant print quality.
  4. Long-Lasting Thermal Paper: Compared to regular paper, it offers extended durability, resisting water, oil, alcohol, wear, friction, light, and heat. Can be stored for several years without significant fading.
  • Vinyl:       

  • PP (Polypropylene)Synthetic Paper

 It is a multifunctional material primarily composed of polyolefin resins and inorganic fillers, processed through extrusion techniques, and possessing both plastic and paper characteristics. The production process of synthetic paper is pollution-free and can be 100% recycled and reused.

Advantages:

  1. Cost-Effective: Utilizes calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as a mineral filler, with a weight proportion of up to 60%, reducing plastic usage and enabling recyclability. Calcium carbonate is also low-cost and stable in the market.
  2. Eco-Friendly: The sourcing and manufacturing process of PP synthetic paper does not harm the environment. The product is 100% recyclable, and even when incinerated, it does not emit toxic gases as it only contains carbon and oxygen. Synthetic paper saves forest resources and reduces environmental pollution by not relying on wood or natural plant fibers.
  3. Lightweight and Rigid: Generally has a density lower than 0.8g/cm3, offering good rigidity.
  4. Durable: Highly durable with resistance to puncture, tearing (especially laterally), wear, and folding.
  5. Completely Waterproof: Free from natural fibers, offering 100% waterproofness, resistance to chemicals, and oil.
  6. Excellent Opacity and Stability: The whiteness and opacity of the paper exceed 90%, with good UV stability.
  7. Suitable for Printing: Features a smooth surface and stable dimensions, compatible with various printing methods like offset, letterpress, gravure, flexography, screen, and flexo printing. Also suitable for writing directly with pencils or ballpoint pens.
  8. Flexible Processing: Can be processed using cutting, die-cutting, embossing, hot stamping, drilling, sewing, folding, and gluing.
  9. Long Preservation: Offers resistance to pests and decay.
  10. Versatile Replacement: Can replace composite papers, aluminized papers, and laminated products.
  11. Food Safe: Safe for direct contact with food.

Disadvantages:

  1. Creasing Issue: Although more fold-resistant than ordinary paper, it leaves noticeable creases when folded, affecting aesthetics.
  2. Recycling Challenges: Recycling of waste synthetic paper can be difficult.

Categories and Applications of PP Synthetic Paper:

  1. 54# Lightweight Synthetic Paper

This material has a surface thickness of only 0.054 microns, making it thin and light, commonly referred to as lightweight synthetic paper. It’s typically used in the daily chemical and pharmaceutical industries, especially suitable for labeling small diameter bottles.

  1. 65# Synthetic Paper

A matte white polypropylene film processed with bi-axial stretching, suitable for making general daily chemical labels.

  1. 70# Synthetic Paper

Taking Avery BW9600 material as an example, it is a matte white polypropylene film, bi-axially stretched and co-extruded in three layers. Suitable for labels requiring some durability and moisture resistance; this product is ideal for both monochrome and high-quality color printing in various printing methods, with excellent full-coverage print quality, and can also be used for thermal transfer printing. It has excellent hot stamping performance and effects.

  1. 75# Synthetic Paper

This thickness of material is standard synthetic paper, widely used and suitable for producing high-quality labels for food and daily necessities, as well as for variable information or product labels printed with ribbon in low-temperature environments. It is also applicable for high-quality labels, such as cosmetics, personal hygiene products, and promotional labels, and in situations requiring some durability and moisture resistance, like gasoline barrel labels, household product labels, etc.

  1. 80# Synthetic Paper

Typically used in the food, daily chemical, and pharmaceutical industries, it is available with removable adhesive, particularly suitable for surfaces requiring high removability.

Light sauce bottle label
Food label
transparent bottle label
transparent bottle label
  • BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene)

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) is a thin film produced by first extruding the melt of polypropylene polymer through a narrow slit die to form sheets or thick films. Subsequently, it undergoes biaxial stretching in a specialized stretching machine at a certain temperature and set speed, either simultaneously or separately in two perpendicular directions (longitudinal and transverse). Afterward, it is subjected to appropriate cooling, heat treatment, or special processing techniques like corona treatment or coating.

Advantages:

  1. Excellent Mechanical Performance: BOPP adhesive film, due to its bi-axially oriented production process, possesses outstanding mechanical properties, including high impact resistance, fold resistance, and abrasion resistance.
  2. Non-Toxic and Safe: Made from food-grade raw materials, BOPP adhesive film is non-toxic and odorless, meeting the safety standards for food packaging.
  3. High Transparency: The high transparency of BOPP adhesive film allows for clear display of the contents beneath the label, enhancing the visual appeal of products.
  4. Good Moisture Resistance: It has excellent moisture-resistant properties, effectively preventing moisture penetration, suitable for packaging products that require dry conditions.
  5. Versatile Applications: BOPP labels are suitable for a wide range of products and industries, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, cleaning supplies, and industrial products.

Disadvantages:

  1. Relatively High Cost: Compared to other plastic films, BOPP adhesive film is more expensive, impacting production costs.
  2. Sensitive to Environmental Conditions: It is sensitive to temperature and humidity, which may lead to deformation, shrinkage, or discoloration in extreme conditions.
  3. Prone to Scratching: The surface hardness of BOPP adhesive film is relatively low, making it susceptible to scratches, affecting its appearance and functionality.
  4. Difficult to Recycle: BOPP adhesive material is not easily recyclable, potentially impacting the environment.

Varieties of BOPP Labels:

BOPP adhesive labels are available in multiple options, including transparent, glossy white, bright silver, and matte silver.

Application Range:

BOPP labels are typically used for packaging various consumer goods, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and detergents.

  • PVC

 

PVC is a high-polymer material with advantages such as flame resistance, high strength, flexibility, and a soft touch. It is commonly used in upscale occasions like jewelry, watches, electronics, and metal products. However, PVC label materials have relatively poor biodegradability, which has a negative impact on environmental protection. Indoor labels are gradually being replaced by other materials and are used less frequently as a result.

Food label
Honey Bottle Label
food label
Protein Label
  • PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)      

PET self-adhesive labels are an environmentally friendly label material, where PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate, a polymer material. PET self-adhesive labels offer good rigidity and can withstand high temperatures, as well as resist harsh environments and chemical corrosion, including exposure to acids and bases. They have high-quality requirements and are particularly suitable for labels with elevated temperature requirements, both indoors and outdoors.

Advantages:

  1. PET self-adhesive label materials exhibit natural biodegradability.
  2. PET adhesive materials are waterproof, oil-resistant, tear-resistant, and heat-resistant, providing excellent performance.
  3. PET self-adhesive label paper possesses outstanding tear resistance, high-temperature resistance, opacity, and resistance to chemical corrosion. It also offers good anti-soiling and anti-scratch properties, making it suitable for durable labels.
  4. High-end labels, such as those with a glossy silver appearance, have a metallic texture and are suitable for creating premium packaging labels.

Disadvantages:

  1. PET material has high rigidity and is not suitable for application on curved surfaces.
  2. Printing is limited, especially for materials like glossy silver, matte silver, brushed silver, and holographic, as their surfaces have inherent effects that may alter the printed colors, making it challenging to reproduce the design accurately.

PET Material Varieties:

There are various surface color options for PET materials, including transparent PET, white PET, bright silver, matte silver, brushed silver, and holographic.

Primary Application Areas:

These PET materials are primarily used in product labels with high-performance requirements. They are suitable for industries that demand features such as waterproofing, oil resistance, chemical resistance, and high-temperature durability. This includes product labels for bathroom products, cosmetics, jewelry, as well as various electrical and mechanical product industries.

cosmetic label
Cosmetic Bottle Label
  • PE (Polyethylene)

PE self-adhesive label material, also known as polyethylene label material (abbreviated as PE), is a thermoplastic resin formed by the polymerization of ethylene. Polyethylene is odorless, non-toxic, wax-like to the touch, and exhibits excellent low-temperature resistance. It has good chemical stability and can resist the majority of acidic and alkaline corrosion. It remains insoluble in common solvents at room temperature and possesses good water absorption and insulating properties. Polyethylene has moderate mechanical properties with low tensile strength and poor creep resistance, but it has excellent impact resistance.

Advantages:

  1. Odorless, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.
  2. High flexibility, resulting in good adhesion of labels to containers, especially suitable for emulsion cosmetics and similar applications.
  3. After coating, there are no concerns about a decrease in dielectric strength due to extended material storage, which would affect printing performance.

Disadvantages:

  1. Not heat-resistant; deformation occurs at temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Celsius.
  2. Limited transparency.

PE material fabric colors:

Available options include transparent, bright white, and matte white. Primarily used for product labels requiring properties such as water resistance, oil resistance, and resistance to chemicals.

Primary Application Areas:

Mainly used for labels on everyday chemical products such as cosmetics, shampoos, and conditioners, where resistance to compression and moisture is required during use.

anti fake sticker
anti fake sticker
vial label
vial label

Laser holographic labels, commonly known as laser holographic film, are created using computer dot matrix lithography technology, 3D true-color holography, and multi-image dynamic imaging technology. These labels transfer holographic images with rainbow-like dynamics and three-dimensional effects onto substrates such as PET, BOPP, PVC, or coated materials through a process involving embossing, hot stamping, or transfer methods, achieving a laser holographic effect on the surface of product packaging.

Laser labels are categorized into two main types:

  1. Universal 3D Optical Effect Laser Labels: This type of laser label is designed to create attention-grabbing three-dimensional optical effects without necessarily having strong anti-counterfeiting features. Universal 3D optical effect laser labels are typically used to enhance the visual appeal of product packaging and brand image. They feature captivating three-dimensional effects that pique consumers’ interest, primarily serving brand marketing and packaging decoration purposes.
  2. 3D Anti-Counterfeiting Laser Labels: These laser labels not only boast attention-grabbing three-dimensional optical effects but also incorporate robust anti-counterfeiting features. 3D anti-counterfeiting laser labels often employ complex laser patterns and security elements, such as difficult-to-replicate holographic effects or changes in appearance when viewed from multiple angles. These labels are widely employed for anti-counterfeiting measures, aiming to protect brands from counterfeit and substandard products.

Advantages:

  1. High Quality: Laser holographic labels, utilizing laser holography technology, can produce high-definition and high-precision labels that clearly display text and graphics, providing an exceptional reading experience.
  2. Waterproof, Oil-Resistant, and Wear-Resistant: Laser holographic labels possess waterproof, oil-resistant, and wear-resistant characteristics, ensuring clear legibility in various environments and providing reliable identification and tracking for products.
  3.  Heat Resistance: Laser holographic labels can withstand high-temperature environments without deformation or damage, making them suitable for use in elevated temperature conditions.
  4. Difficult to Imitate: Laser holographic labels, thanks to their holographic technology, are challenging to imitate and replicate, enhancing the product’s anti-counterfeiting capabilities.

Disadvantages:

  1. High Cost: The technology and materials required to produce laser holographic labels are of high quality, resulting in relatively high production costs.
  2. Poor Color Reproduction: Due to the typical silver background with special effects, colors printed on laser holographic labels may undergo changes, making it difficult to accurately reproduce the intended color design.

Classification of Laser Materials:

Laser holographic materials are primarily categorized into BOPP materials. These materials utilize photolithography and other technologies to transfer holographic images to the substrate, achieving laser holographic effects. They can be classified based on different materials, including OPP, PET, and PVC, and can feature various patterns, including plain surfaces, large and small grids, small raindrops, small dots, and many others.

Primary Application Areas:

Laser holographic labels find extensive applications in industries such as daily chemicals, healthcare, tobacco, cosmetics, and more. These labels play a crucial role in enhancing product quality, bolstering brand image, and providing anti-counterfeiting protection.

car sticker
PVC Car Sticker

Outdoor Sticker Materials:

  • Vinyl:

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Outdoor PVC differs in composition from indoor PVC, as it is enhanced with additives like plasticizers and anti-aging agents during its manufacturing process to improve heat resistance, toughness, and elasticity. This endows outdoor PVC with excellent flexibility, shrink resistance, and opacity. It also has superior processing and labeling capabilities, strong resistance to chemical corrosion, and is robust and durable, making it particularly suitable for long-term outdoor applications.

Advantages:

  1. Strong Weather Resistance: PVC car stickers exhibit excellent weather resistance, withstanding prolonged exposure to sunlight and rain. They maintain vibrant colors and clear patterns over an extended period.
  2. Abrasion Resistance: The surface of PVC car stickers is usually treated to provide robust resistance to abrasion, making them durable against road particles and daily wear.
  3. Good Plasticity: PVC is a highly plastic material, facilitating easy processing and shaping when creating car stickers. It adapts well to the curves and shapes of various vehicle surfaces.
  4. Economical: Compared to some high-performance car sticker materials, PVC is a relatively cost-effective choice suitable for mass production and general applications.
  5. Easy Installation: PVC car stickers are usually lightweight and easy to install on vehicle surfaces, making them suitable for a wide range of users.

Disadvantages:

  1. Environmental Concerns: The manufacturing and processing of PVC materials may raise environmental concerns, including the release of toxic gases, contributing to debates about its environmental impact.
  2. Relatively Fragile: While PVC car stickers have good abrasion resistance, they may be relatively fragile compared to some high-performance materials, easily scratching or sustaining damage in intense usage conditions.
  3. Temperature Sensitivity: PVC material may be sensitive to extreme temperature changes, becoming soft in high temperatures and brittle in low temperatures, affecting its performance and appearance. Most suitable temperature is 5-80 degrees.
  4. Plasticizer Issues: Some plasticizers used in PVC may be controversial, as they are sometimes considered to pose potential health risks.

Types and Applications of PVC

PVC is categorized into two types based on weather resistance: advertising-grade PVC (suitable for temperatures ranging from 5 to 80 degrees Celsius) and engineering-grade PVC (suitable for temperatures ranging from -20 to 80 degrees Celsius).

In terms of color, PVC is available in a variety of options including transparent, white, red, yellow, blue, and green.

As for surface effects, PVC is divided into types such as glossy PVC, carbon fiber film, shiny silver & matte silver PVC, sparkling silver PVC, and laser PVC.

These materials are primarily used for branding names, LOGO designs, and decorations on vehicles like cars, motorcycles, bicycles, tricycles, trucks, pipe sticker ,floor sticker as well as on outdoor machinery or tool  and also as warning signs.

control panel sticker
Matt PC panel
control panel sticker
control panel sticker
  • PC (Polycarbonate)

PC is a novel type of thermoplastic that boasts a transparency level of 90%, earning it the nickname “transparent metal.” It is rigid yet tough, with high impact strength, great dimensional stability, a wide operating temperature range, good electrical insulation properties, heat resistance, and non-toxicity, making it suitable for injection and extrusion molding. PC plastic exhibits excellent thermal performance, capable of long-term use in temperatures ranging from -100°C to 130°C, with a brittleness temperature below -100°C.

Advantages:

  1. High Strength and Rigidity: PC (Polycarbonate) material possesses high strength and rigidity, significantly surpassing common thermoplastics such as ABS and PVC. This makes PC an ideal choice for components requiring high durability and impact resistance.
  2. Heat Resistance: PC material performs well at high temperatures and can withstand temperatures up to 160°C (320°F). This makes it an ideal material for applications in high-temperature environments such as automotive and electronic devices.
  3. Weather Resistance: PC material exhibits excellent weather resistance, maintaining good performance under outdoor conditions. It shows strong resistance to ultraviolet rays, oxidizing agents, and other environmental factors.

Disadvantages:

  1. Susceptible to UV Radiation: PC material is susceptible to the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to a decline in its performance. Therefore, precautions against sunlight exposure are necessary when using PC products in direct sunlight.
  2. Higher Cost: Compared to some other common plastics, PC material comes with a higher cost, potentially limiting its application in certain contexts.
  3. Weak Resistance to Certain Chemicals: PC material has relatively weak resistance to certain chemicals, such as ketone solvents. Caution should be taken to avoid contact with these chemicals when using PC products.

Types and Applications of PC

PC materials are categorized by color into transparent and white types. In terms of surface finish, PC materials are divided into glossy and matte PC. Based on thickness, PC materials range from 0.1 to 2 millimeters. These materials are primarily used for outdoor car stickers, advertising stickers, LOGO stickers, warning stickers, and panel stickers for various electronic and electrical products.

3M Reflective sticker
3M Reflective sticker
3M reflective material
3M reflective material
  • Reflective Vinyl

Reflective film is a technology that combines various disciplines and techniques such as optics, materials science, mathematics, organic chemistry, etc. It involves the use of glass bead technology, resin synthesis technology, film technology, and coating technology to produce a series of high-quality retroreflective film materials.

Advantages:

  1. Enhanced Visibility: Reflective film has the property of high retroreflection, which can enhance the visibility of signs, labels, or advertisements when illuminated by light. This is particularly useful for safety signs in nighttime or low-light conditions.
  2. Safety: Reflective film is commonly used in traffic signs and road safety signs, helping drivers to easily identify signs and warnings.
  3. Brand Enhancement: Using reflective film in advertising and marketing can increase the attractiveness of products or brands because they appear more eye-catching when exposed to light.

Disadvantages:

  1. Higher Cost: Reflective film is relatively more expensive compared to ordinary printing materials, which may increase the production cost of signs or labels.
  2. Limited Color Options: Reflective film typically offers limited color choices, which may impose design constraints.
  3. Durability: While reflective film is highly effective in improving visibility, it may not be as durable as some other materials and can be susceptible to damage or wear.

Classification and Applications of Reflective Film:

Reflective films are categorized based on the structure of the retroreflective unit into engineering-grade reflective film, high-grade prism engineering-grade reflective film, and fluorescent-grade reflective film.

  1. Engineering-grade reflective film is made from micro glass beads, a transparent adhesive layer, and a reflective film layer. It is soft and thin, primarily used for making various reflective signs, license plates, safety facilities, and advertising.
  2. High-grade prism engineering-grade reflective materials are classified into three levels based on the density of glass beads: EGP, HIB, and DIAMOND. They are used for making road signs, prohibition signs, warning signs, and directional signs, mainly for flat surfaces or slightly curved surfaces.
  3. Fluorescent-grade reflective materials have the advantage of absorbing energy from invisible light within the spectrum and converting it, resulting in better color and brightness. This makes them appear more vibrant. These materials are particularly useful in adverse weather conditions or when the sunlight is less intense. They are commonly used in traffic safety products to ensure driving safety during dawn, dusk, rain, snow, fog, etc. Fluorescent full prism reflective films are widely used for fluorescent warning signs, fluorescent line-shaped contour marks, road construction zone fluorescent signs, and more.

I hope this information helps you understand more about reflective film and its applications. If you have any further questions or need assistance with any other topic, feel free to ask.

static cling sticker
static cling sticker
static cling sticker
Double Side Static Sticker

Electrostatic stickers are made from PVC electrostatic film material, which does not contain adhesive. They adhere to the surface by relying on static electricity and have strong adhesion to various smooth surfaces, allowing for repeated peeling and sticking.

Advantages:

  1. No Need for Glue: Electrostatic stickers do not require the use of glue or adhesive materials, so they do not leave residue or damage the surface. This makes them particularly suitable for temporary stickers, such as seasonal promotions or special events.
  2. Reusable: Due to the action of static electricity, electrostatic stickers can be easily moved and reattached without losing their stickiness. This makes them suitable for multiple uses, especially in retail and advertising.
  3. Environmentally Friendly: Since electrostatic stickers do not contain glue or adhesive components, they are environmentally friendly. They do not generate harmful waste or chemical odors.
  4. Easy Application: Applying electrostatic stickers is very simple, as they can be pressed onto the surface gently without the need for additional tools or skills.

Disadvantages of electrostatic stickers:

  1. Limited Adhesion: Electrostatic stickers have relatively weak adhesion, so in some situations, such as strong winds or the effects of gravity, they may come off easily.
  2. Not Suitable for Rough Surfaces: Electrostatic stickers are more suitable for smooth surfaces. If applied to rough or irregular surfaces, they may not adhere properly.
  3. Temperature Sensitivity: The performance of electrostatic stickers may be affected by temperature. In extreme high or low temperatures, their adhesion may weaken.

Classification and Applications of Static Sticker

Electrostatic stickers are commonly available in a thickness of 0.15mm and come in two specifications: white and transparent.

They are suitable for applications such as window stickers, mirror stickers, computer monitors, glass cups, refrigerators, car window stickers, and more.

glow in the dark car sticker
Glow in the Dark Sticker
  • Glow in the dark vinyl 

Glow in the dark stickers are a type of sticker material that can emit fluorescence in the dark, and their operation is based on the luminescent properties of phosphorescent materials. Glow in the dark sticker materials consist of fluorescent powder and adhesive. Fluorescent powder is the primary component responsible for the luminescence of night light materials and includes phosphorescent materials such as zinc sulfide, strontium sulfide, or calcium sulfide. These phosphorescent materials can absorb energy when exposed to light and store it. In dark environments, when external light sources disappear, the fluorescent powder begins to emit fluorescence, making the designs or text on glow in the dark stickers bright and visible. Adhesive is used to secure the fluorescent powder onto the substrate of the glow in the dark sticker material.

Advantages:

  1. Provides nighttime visibility: glow in the dark stickers can emit fluorescence in the dark, enhancing the visibility of objects or signs and contributing to nighttime safety.
  1. No need for power source: glow in the dark stickers do not require an external power supply; their luminescence relies on the absorption and release of light, making them unaffected by battery life or power interruptions.
  1. Environmentally friendly: glow in the dark stickers do not generate waste batteries or electronic waste, making them eco-friendly.
  1. Versatility: They can be used for safety signage, decoration, traffic signs, outdoor activities, and more, adding flexibility and versatility.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited luminescence duration: The luminescent effect of glow in the dark stickers typically has a limited duration, and the luminescence may gradually diminish after several hours, requiring regular recharging to maintain the effect.
  1. Charging requirements: To maintain the luminescent effect, glow in the dark stickers  need to be exposed to a sufficient light source for an extended period, which may be inconvenient in some situations.
  1. Lower luminescent brightness: The luminescent brightness of glow in the dark stickers  is generally lower than that of battery or powered lighting devices, making them less prominent in situations requiring high brightness.
  1. Durability issues: Some glow in the dark stickers may experience fading or damage after prolonged use, necessitating periodic replacement.

Types of glow in the dark stickers:

  1. Luminescence duration classification: Glow in the dark stickers are categorized based on their luminescence duration, including 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10-hour night light stickers. These different types of night light stickers have varying luminescence durations and can be chosen according to specific needs.
  1. Color classification: Glow in the dark stickers  are classified by color, including light green, orange, pink, blue, and white. Among them, light green provides the strongest luminescent effect, while other colors have weaker luminescence and are generally less commonly used.
  1. Surface effect classification: Glow in the dark stickers can be categorized based on surface effects as general luminescent materials and reflective luminescent materials. Reflective luminescent materials possess both reflective and phosphorescent functions, and their use is expected to increase in various applications.

Glow in the dark stickers have a wide range of applications, including:

  1. Safety signage: Glow in the dark stickers are commonly used to create safety signs, such as emergency exit signs and escape route indicators, providing visibility and safety guidance at night.
  1. Traffic signs: In the traffic sector, Glow in the dark stickers  can be used to create nighttime road signs and traffic indicators, enhancing nighttime driving safety.
  1. Decoration: Glow in the dark stickers are also widely used for decoration, such as creating luminescent decorations, stickers, and more, to create a unique atmosphere.
  1. Outdoor activities: During outdoor activities, camping, or nighttime sports, Glow in the dark stickers can provide additional visibility and enhance safety.
UK magnetic sticker
UK magnetic sticker
magnet sticker
magnet sticker
  • Magnet Vinyl

Magnetic material is a type of magnetic material known for its unique characteristics, including a certain level of magnetization strength and hysteresis loss. These properties make magnetic materials play a crucial role in electromagnetic devices and magnetic applications.

Magnetic refrigerator stickers typically consist of two main components. Firstly, there is the surface material, which is the visible part of the sticker and often comes in various colors, patterns, or prints. This surface material can be made of plastic, paper, metal, or other materials, giving the sticker an appealing appearance and decorative qualities.

The second part is the magnetic material, usually located on the back of the sticker. Magnetic materials possess special magnetic properties, allowing them to attract and retain magnetism. However, they also have low hysteresis loss, which means they don’t generate excessive energy loss when interacting with magnetic fields. As a result, magnetic materials are widely used in electromagnetic equipment.

The structure of magnetic refrigerator stickers allows them to serve both decorative purposes, such as being placed on refrigerators to display pictures, notes, or family calendars, and specific applications like magnetic puzzles, educational tools, or temporary labeling. In summary, magnetic refrigerator stickers are versatile products that combine aesthetics and utility, suitable for various household, office, and automotive promotional environments.

Advantages:

  1. Easy Installation and Removal: Magnetic stickers can be easily attached to metal surfaces without the need for adhesive glue or tape. They can be quickly installed and removed without leaving residue or damaging the surface.
  2. Reusability: Magnetic stickers can be reused, making them a cost-effective choice, especially for applications that require frequent content or design changes.
  3. Strong Customization: Magnetic stickers can be customized according to personal or business needs, allowing for the printing of various patterns, logos, advertising information, or personal designs.
  4. Weather Resistance: Many magnetic stickers have good weather resistance, maintaining color and texture stability in various weather conditions and resisting fading or damage.
  5. Versatility: Magnetic stickers can be used for various purposes, including decoration, advertising, temporary labeling, educational tools, and more. They are highly flexible and have a wide range of applications.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited to Metal Surfaces: Magnetic stickers can only adhere to metal surfaces, making them unsuitable for non-metal surfaces. If used on non-metal surfaces, magnetic bases or other solutions are needed.
  2. Limited Durability: Magnetic stickers are relatively thin and flexible, which may result in less durability in certain conditions. Prolonged use in harsh conditions may lead to wear and tear.
  3. Not Suitable for High-Speed Driving: When used on vehicles traveling at high speeds, magnetic stickers may have the issue of detachment and are not suitable for use on highways.

In summary, magnetic refrigerator stickers are a versatile and convenient decoration and promotional tool. However, they also have certain limitations, so the choice to use magnetic stickers should consider the specific application and environmental conditions.

Classification and Applications of Magnetic Stickers:

Magnetic stickers can be categorized based on their magnetic properties into single-sided magnets and double-sided magnets.

  1. Single-Sided Magnets: Single-sided magnets are a type of magnetic material that has magnetic properties on one side only. This means that one side can adhere to a metal surface, while the other side is typically non-magnetic and can be used for printing, decoration, or other purposes. Single-sided magnets are commonly used for refrigerator magnets, advertising, and decorative applications, where one side adheres to a metal surface while the other side can display patterns, information, or advertisements.
  2. Double-Sided Magnets: Double-sided magnets are magnetic materials with magnetic properties on both sides. This allows them to adhere to two metal surfaces simultaneously or to attract other magnetic materials. Double-sided magnets are often used in special applications, such as making magnetic seals, closures, magnetic puzzles, and other scenarios where both sides need to provide magnetic attraction.

Magnetic stickers can also be classified based on their surface characteristics and properties:

  1. PVC Magnetic Stickers: PVC magnetic stickers are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material and typically have a smooth surface suitable for printing various colored patterns, logos, and information. This type of magnetic sticker is commonly used for home decoration, advertising, and commercial purposes due to its ability to achieve high-quality printing results.
  2. Reflective Magnetic Stickers: Reflective magnetic stickers have the property of reflecting light, especially in low-light conditions or at night. They are often used for road safety signs, vehicle identification, and other applications that require easy visibility in low-light conditions.
  3. Glow-in-the-Dark Magnetic Stickers: Glow-in-the-dark magnetic stickers have the ability to emit light in the dark after absorbing light during the day. This feature makes them visible in the dark and is commonly used for emergency signs, safety markers, and children’s room decorations.

Magnetic refrigerator stickers are primarily used in the following areas and scenarios:

  1. Home Decoration: Magnetic stickers are frequently used for home decoration, especially when attached to refrigerators, magnetic whiteboards, ovens, or other metal appliances to display family photos, patterns, seasonal decorations, or personal creativity.
  2. Advertising and Promotion: Businesses often utilize magnetic stickers as mobile advertising tools by placing them on vehicles to showcase company logos, advertising messages, contact information, and more, effectively promoting their brand on city roads.
  3. Education and Learning: In the field of education, magnetic stickers can be used to create educational tools for classrooms, featuring letters, numbers, geographical maps, and other materials that aid students in learning and interactive activities.
  4. Retail and Storefronts: Stores and businesses frequently use magnetic stickers to create temporary promotional signs, special offers, business hours, and other messages to attract customers’ attention.
  5. Vehicle Identification: Magnetic stickers are used for vehicle identification, particularly in taxi services, delivery vehicles, and commercial fleets, making it easier for advertising and branding purposes.
  6. Environmentally Friendly Applications: Some magnetic stickers are made from environmentally friendly materials and are used for educational purposes, reminding individuals to adopt eco-friendly practices such as energy conservation and waste reduction.
  7. Entertainment and Children’s Toys: Magnetic stickers are also used to create children’s toys, puzzles, and creative play items, aiding children in developing creativity and hand-eye coordination.

Magnetic refrigerator stickers serve various purposes and are versatile tools that combine aesthetics and practicality. The choice of magnetic sticker type and application depends on specific needs and environmental conditions.

 

Whether it’s indoor labels or outdoor labels, due to the different characteristics of each material, please choose carefully or consult the manufacturer for some relatively professional advice

What kind of adhesive is on the back of your custom vinyl die cut stickers?

 

Because customer needs vary, stickers generally come with three different forms of adhesive for you to choose from.

 

  • Removable adhesive :

Removable adhesiveis a type of glue with special stickiness that can be easily removed when needed without leaving any residue or damaging the surface.

Removable adhesive has a wide range of applications. In homes, it can be used to stick posters, photos, and greeting cards without damaging walls or other surfaces. In offices, removable adhesive is suitable for attaching notes, memos, file folders, and file labels. In industrial production, it can be used to protect electronic components, precision instruments, and mechanical parts.

 In addition to excellent adhesion and removability, removable adhesive has other advantages. Its color is usually transparent or light, so it does not affect the appearance of the surface. It also provides a certain degree of resistance to water and dust, thereby protecting the surface from corrosion and contamination.

 However, removable adhesive also has some limitations. Its adhesive strength is typically lower, making it unsuitable for applications that require long-term adhesion. It also cannot be used in high-temperature environments as high temperatures can cause it to lose its stickiness.    

  • Permanent adhesive

Permanent adhesive is a type of glue with strong adhesion that is typically difficult to remove once applied to a surface. It has a robust adhesive strength, allowing it to remain in place for an extended period without being easily affected by external factors such as humidity or temperature changes.

Advantages of permanent adhesive:

  1. Strong Adhesion: Permanent adhesive has high adhesive strength, ensuring a secure bond on various surfaces.
  2. Durability: Once applied, permanent adhesive typically maintains its adhesive properties over the long term, resisting the influence of external factors.
  3. Stability: In constant environmental conditions, such as changes in temperature and humidity, permanent adhesive can maintain relatively stable performance.
  4. Versatility: Suitable for applications requiring long-term fixation, such as brand identification, labels, and product stickers.

Disadvantages of permanent adhesive:

  1. Difficult to Remove: Due to its strong adhesion, permanent adhesive is often challenging to remove once applied, potentially causing damage to the surface.
  2. Not Environmentally Friendly: Some permanent adhesives may contain chemicals that are less environmentally friendly and could impact the environment.
  3. Not Suitable for One-Time Use: Permanent adhesive is not the ideal choice for applications that require easy removal for short-term use.
  4. Temperature Sensitivity: The performance of permanent adhesive may be affected under extreme temperature conditions, such as losing stickiness in high temperatures.

When choosing to use permanent adhesive, it is essential to weigh its advantages and disadvantages and make an appropriate selection based on specific application needs. 

  • Static cling material

 Static cling is a type of material that adheres to smooth surfaces without the need for glue. It utilizes static electricity to fix the sticker to the surface without using traditional glue or adhesive substances.

Advantages:

  1. No Need for Glue: Static cling material doesn’t require the use of traditional glue or adhesive substances; it adheres to smooth surfaces through static electricity.
  2. Reusable: Since it doesn’t use glue, static cling material can be easily moved, repositioned, and reused multiple times.
  3. Leaves No Residue: When using static cling material, it doesn’t leave adhesive marks or residues on the surface, maintaining a clean appearance.
  4. Easy to Clean: The surface of static cling material can be easily maintained through simple wiping or cleaning without affecting its adhesion performance.
  5. Suitable for Smooth Surfaces: Static cling material is most effective on smooth surfaces, ensuring a good adhesion effect.

Disadvantages:

  1. Affected by Moisture: The adhesion of static cling material may weaken in humid environments, making it sensitive to humidity.
  2. Not Suitable for Rough Surfaces: Static cling material has a less effective adhesion on rough or uneven surfaces, requiring a smooth surface for secure fixation.
  3. Limited Adhesion Force: Compared to stickers using glue, static cling material has a certain limit to its adhesion force and may not be suitable for large or heavy stickers.
  4. Temperature-Sensitive: The adhesion performance of static cling material may be affected under extreme temperature conditions.

Static cling material is suitable for applications that require reusability, leave no residue, and are easy to clean. However, it may have limitations in specific environments and surface conditions. When choosing to use static cling material, it’s essential to consider practical needs and environmental factors.

Summary 

 

When considering the production of stickers, it is essential to clarify the following key questions:

  1. Sticker Purpose and Context: First and foremost, determine where and in what context the sticker will be used. Understanding the specific purpose of the sticker is crucial because different scenarios may require different types of stickers.
  2. Required Features and Functions: Identify the features and functions that the sticker needs to possess. For example, does the sticker need to be waterproof, magnetic, weather-resistant, reflective, luminescent, or have other specific attributes? These characteristics will directly influence the choice of sticker.
  3. Sticker’s Objective: Clearly define the primary objective of the sticker. Stickers can serve various purposes, such as decoration, advertising, education, labeling, reminders, etc. Therefore, it’s essential to select the type of sticker that aligns with achieving these objectives.
  4. Material Characteristics and Pros and Cons: Based on the material characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages provided above, choose the material that best matches the intended use and objectives of the sticker. Ensure that the selected material can meet the sticker’s requirements.
  5. If You Have Questions, Contact Us Anytime: If you have any doubts or questions regarding the selection of the sticker, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are always ready to provide assistance and advice. Feel free to contact us at any time.

In summary, creating stickers requires thorough consideration of factors such as their intended use, characteristics, objectives, and material selection. Making informed choices will ensure that your stickers achieve the desired outcomes and meet your needs. If you require further assistance or have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

FAQ

What kind of stickers are waterproof?

All the vinyl ,plastic material are waterproof ,paper donot have waterproof .

What type of sticker will work best in heat or cold?

PET,Engineering PVC,3M reflective ,PC and metal is best for heat or cold.

What type of sticker is most durable?

Refective ,PC and metal is most durable.

 

Tags: No tags

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *