The tissue and towel industry is currently facing a significant shift, driven by the demand for sustainability and stricter regulatory frameworks.
Energy-intensive production methods and high CO₂ emissions are under scrutiny, while the pressure to meet heightened safety and environmental standards continues to grow. At the same time, consumers are placing greater emphasis on products that are not only hygienic and high-quality but also environmentally responsible. For manufacturers, this means rethinking every step of the production process – from the choice of fibres and additives to the adhesives that hold everything together – with a renewed focus on reducing resource use and lowering emissions.
Sustainability does not rest on a single pillar. In addition to responsible raw material selection, efficient processes and innovative product designs are key to success. It’s not just about meeting regulatory demands, but also about positioning brands to meet the increasing consumer expectations for sustainable products. Achieving this balance requires a detailed understanding of the entire production chain, identifying areas where improvements can reduce both environmental impact and operating costs.
Henkel Adhesive Technologies is playing a key role in this shift towards a more sustainable industry, addressing each of these requirements with a comprehensive approach. The company is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products, not just through raw material selection but by innovating across the supply chain. The introduction of the new laminating adhesive Aquence LAM E2050 LE is an example of Henkel’s commitment to both performance and sustainability.
The role of repurposed materials in sustainability
One of the most significant innovations of Aquence LAM E2050 LE is its use of at least 35% repurposed solid content. These chemically virgin raw materials come from Henkel’s own internal manufacturing processes. This recycling approach is a crucial step towards reducing the consumption of new, virgin resources. The process of repurposing involves collecting components that have already gone through the initial stages of production and ensuring that they are chemically unchanged, making them suitable for reapplication in new products. By doing so, Henkel is not only reducing the environmental impact associated with sourcing new materials but also contributing to a more sustainable, closed-loop system. This approach is central to Henkel’s sustainability strategy and helps to lower the overall environmental footprint of the product.
Lowering carbon emissions and fossil resource dependence
The use of repurposed materials in Aquence LAM E2050 LE significantly reduces the need for fossil-based raw materials. This reduction translates into a cradle-to-gate carbon footprint that is up to 43% lower than conventional laminating adhesives. By leveraging repurposed materials and optimizing the manufacturing process, Henkel has successfully reduced the environmental impact of the adhesive, all while maintaining – and even improving – its performance characteristics.
The carbon footprint reduction is measured through a cradle-to-gate analysis, which accounts for the environmental impact from the sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing, and transportation, up until the point the product leaves the factory. This data-driven approach allows Henkel to provide verifiable sustainability benefits to its customers, offering a clear and measurable way to reduce environmental impact at each step of the production chain.
In addition to the carbon footprint reduction, Aquence LAM E2050 LE is also free from traditional preservatives and meets the highest safety standards. It is approved for food contact, ensuring that it is safe for use in applications where hygiene is critical. This makes it a versatile and safe option for manufacturers looking to meet both environmental and safety requirements without compromise.
High performance and safety in use
While sustainability is at the forefront, Henkel has not compromised performance. Aquence LAM E2050 LE provides excellent adhesion, even on challenging papers such as those made from recycled fibers. The adhesive’s ability to bond effectively with these materials ensures that manufacturers can continue to use recycled inputs without sacrificing product performance. This is particularly important as the demand for recycled materials in tissue and towel products increases.
The adhesive penetration can be flexibly adjusted depending on the number of plies (two to four), which improves machine performance and increases tissue volume. This flexibility makes Aquence LAM E2050 LE suitable for a variety of production needs, whether the goal is to optimise machine speed, reduce energy consumption, or achieve a specific end-product quality. Despite these adjustments, the softness and quality of the final tissue product are maintained, ensuring that the user experience is not compromised.
Additionally, the adhesive stands out for its high product safety during application. It does not require special protective measures, making it easier and safer to handle in the manufacturing environment. This simplicity of use ensures that manufacturers can seamlessly integrate Aquence LAM E2050 LE into their existing production lines without the need for additional safety equipment or procedures.
Companies interested in pioneering a more sustainable future can test the product and start integrating it into their production processes. By adopting this innovative adhesive, manufacturers can take a significant step toward reducing their carbon footprint, enhancing product safety, and improving overall operational efficiency.
Summary:
Henkel’s Aquence LAM E2050 LE laminating adhesive combines high performance with sustainability, offering a solution that reduces carbon emissions by up to 43% compared to conventional adhesives. Made with at least 35% repurposed solid content, this innovative adhesive supports the tissue and towel industry in achieving both environmental goals and high product quality.
This article was written for TWM by Henkel.
