Getting the silicone coating thickness and quality on papers, films, and release liners is fundamental. If the layer is too thin, the liner may not release adequately, rendering the product unusable; if it is too thick, production costs will be prohibitively high. Suppose the adhesive paper or film is intended for PCB use. In that case, any residual silicone on the adhesive layer could impair the performance, implying that the silicone layer’s quality must be carefully controlled.
X-ray fluorescence has long been used to control the thickness of the silicone layer (XRF). This method is extremely accurate and fast enough to take measurements regularly for meticulous process control. The method is also adaptable, as XRF can regulate the platinum catalyst level in the silicone fluid.
This article will review seven different usages of silicone release papers in industries.
What Is Silicone Release Paper?
The silicone release paper is essential to pressure-sensitive tapes, labels, and sealants. Sealant labels are widely used daily, ranging from bandage paper to postal stamps. Silicone release paper allows adhesives to remain tacky. Most of these silicone release papers are only coated on one side (S1S). Compared to silicone release paper, normal paper cannot hold the adhesive properly in the right state and cannot be easily peeled off.
1. Label Stock
The label industry is a major user of silicone release paper. It shields the face-stock print from the adhesive on a label. Moreover, silicone release liner labels are used in the following applications:
- Point-of-sale labeling
- Primary labels for the food and cosmetics industries
- Business system labels
- Functional and security labels on machinery and industry equipment
2. Medical
Silicone release liner paper is used in almost every aspect of medicine. When these products come into direct contact with the skin, a high-quality release that is matched to the correct adhesive and can be produced consistently must be used.
We have worked with manufacturers in these fields to help them produce high-quality release liners and service solutions such as narrow split, coils, double packaging, plastic cores, and bioburden testing.
Silicone release liners are commonly used in:
- Body electrodes
- Therapeutic patches
- Adhesive bandages
- Wound dressings
- Transdermal delivery systems
The release liner supports the adhesive in the case of ECG/grounding pads. Other applications for release liners include PU casting liners, wound care, and surgical drapes.
3. Functional Coatings
A functional coating is a “layer” applied to a substrate, such as paper/PE/film. This layer protects against the elements such as rain, heat, slip/grip, static electricity, and absorption.
Kraft paper, for example, coated with a cold seal adhesive, allows you to seal and wrap items without using tape or glue.
Silicone release papers with functional coatings are used in corrugated boards, do-it-yourself furniture, and automotive parts.
4. Graphic Arts
With this market expanding rapidly, the release liner, commonly used in these applications, has had to adapt. PVC, PET, and PP advertising films are used in car wrapping, reflective safety films, and decorative vinyl.
The silicone release liner used with these films ensures good lay-flat characteristics, dimensional stability, and adjustable release levels. We will collaborate to develop a product solution tailored to your specific application.
5. Shipping Envelopes
Overnight shipping document pouches will have a peel-and-seal closure strip. This system includes the release liner, which is removed to expose the adhesive before pressing it closed.
Silicone release papers are used in the following applications:
- Food bags
- Paper envelopes
- Business forms
- Document pouches
6. Building/Roofing
Silicone release liners are used in roofing applications for cold self-adhesive membranes as well as self-adhesive under layers. The liner protects the adhesive surface and ensures the finished product can be rewound after manufacturing. In self-adhesive shingles, a release liner is also used.
7. Hygiene
Silicone release liners are primarily used in hygiene applications for self-adhesive diaper frontal tapes and feminine care products. Companies provide printing, coating, and slitting services for these liners.
Market Dynamics
The Silicone Release Paper market is primarily driven by rising consumer demand for products in the food and beverage, medical, automotive, and other consumer goods industries. Improving lifestyles and solid economic growth encourage consumers to spend on discretionary goods, increasing product usage. Furthermore, rising e-commerce trends and internet penetration enhance product packaging, bolstering the silicone release paper market growth in the coming years.
Segment’s Analysis
Regional Trends
The North America Silicone Release Paper market accounted for a sizable share in 2020 and is expected to grow at a rapid CAGR during the review period. The growth of the Silicone Release Paper market is primarily due to the presence of end-use sectors such as food and beverages, medical, automotive, and construction. Furthermore, high living and discretionary spending fuel the market growth.
Due to strong infrastructure development, manufacturing activities, rising per capita disposable income, and robust investments in India, China, and ASEAN countries, the Asia Pacific Silicone Release Paper market is expected to grow at a healthy CAGR during the review period.
End Use Trends
The silicone release paper market has been segmented by end-use: food & beverages, automotive & electronics, cosmetics & personal care, healthcare, building & construction, telecommunication, and others. In 2020, the healthcare industry will have the largest market share. Silicone release can be applied to the skin of patients suffering from burns, which have a higher risk of infection, thereby preventing them from being exposed to harmful bacteria and thus promoting segment growth.
Silicone Release Liner Paper Grades
A silicone release liner comprises three distinct parts that work together: the base paper or substrate (often Kraft paper), the barrier coating, and the silicone.
Super Calendered Kraft (SCK) – Bleached and Natural
Because of its hardness, smoothness, and caliper consistency, this is a famous paper for a release liner. The properties are obtained by passing Kraft paper through a Calender stack, which results in a very flat paper with a dense, closed surface.
Glassine Release Paper
This release liner paper has a smooth surface ideal for silicone coating. Because of its highly tight caliper tolerances, it is suitable for die-cutting.
Clay Coated Paper
This silicone release paper is a Kraft paper with a clay coating and a silicone coating on top. The clay coating increases dimensional stability as well as tolerance to high temperatures.
Bottomline
Silicone Release Paper has a significant impact on our daily lives in a variety of small ways. Silicone release paper keeps various adhesives fresh and tacky, from the bandage paper we peel away after a nasty paper cut to the backing of every postage stamp we place. While regular paper bonds to adhesives, the release paper is designed to be easily removed without risking it falling off independently.
This release paper adheres to the adhesives without fusing by utilizing the natural properties of silicone. Only light pressure is required to separate the coated paper from its adhesive, which remains tacky and fresh for its intended application. The silicone release paper is also naturally anti-microbial and water-resistant.