ZACROS Develops Innovative Recycling Technology for Flexible Packaging Films

ZACROS Corporation, headquartered in Bunkyo, Tokyo, has made remarkable strides in environmental sustainability by developing a cutting-edge technology that allows for the removal of adhesives and printing inks from multilayer films used in flexible packaging. This advancement paves the way for the creation of high-quality recycled materials, contributing to a circular economy.

Background of the Development

Flexible films commonly used in refill pouches and other everyday products are constructed by layering various materials bonded with adhesives to ensure the protection of their contents. However, these multilayer films have posed significant challenges in terms of recycling, as separating them into individual materials is a complex and costly process. Previously, thermal recovery and waste disposal were the go-to methods for handling these types of materials.

In response to increasing global concerns over environmental issues, there has been a tightening of regulations regarding the recycling of packaging materials, particularly in the European Union, where laws now mandate the use of recycled materials. Japan is following suit with new legislation aimed at promoting the recycling of plastics. ZACROS is addressing this societal demand through the development of high-quality recycling technologies specifically for multilayer films.

Development of Layer Separation and Ink Removal Technology

To effectively recycle multilayer films, it is essential to separate the adhesive layers and remove any printing inks. ZACROS has successfully developed a proprietary technology to tackle these technical challenges. This innovative process boasts several key features that address the issues surrounding multilayer films:

- No Need for Specialized Adhesives: The technology can be applied to commonly used flexible packaging films currently available in the market.
- Efficient Processing: Using a specially developed solution, ZACROS can simultaneously remove adhesives and printing inks.
- High-Quality Recycled Materials: Films produced from materials processed with this technology exhibit strength comparable to virgin materials.

Future Initiatives

ZACROS is focused on building a recycling system for multilayer films made from flexible packaging using this new technology, with the goal of implementing it within society by the fiscal year 2027.

ZACROS's Commitment to a Sustainable Society

The company prioritizes the creation of a sustainable and prosperous future, recognizing it as one of its critical missions. ZACROS strives to achieve a balance between environmental considerations and societal richness. The newly developed layer separation and ink removal technology represents a major step in treating flexible packaging plastics as valuable resources. By utilizing this technology, ZACROS aims to provide high-quality recycled materials and products, contributing significantly to the establishment of a circular economy.

For more details on ZACROS's sustainability efforts, please visit their website.

Participation in the 27th INTERPHEX JAPAN

ZACROS will showcase its innovative technology at the following exhibition:

- Event Name: 27th INTERPHEX JAPAN (27th INTERPHEX Week Tokyo [Pharmaceuticals][Cosmetics] Research and Manufacturing Exhibition)
- Date: July 9 (Wed) - 11 (Fri), 2025, from 10:00 to 17:00
- Location: Tokyo Big Sight, West Hall 1F, Booth W9-76
- Pre-registration: Available through the official website.

Related News Release

ZACROS will also host a seminar introducing domestically produced single-use products during the exhibition. For more information, check out the news release published on June 9, 2025, here.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding this matter, please contact the Public Relations Group of ZACROS Corporation's Management Strategy Division.
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Note: The multilayer film mentioned refers to films made of various materials that have differing functions such as strength, barrier properties, and sealability. These films meet complex quality requirements and are widely used in food wrapping and refill pouches for household products. Horizontal Recycling pertains to the process of repurposing used products into similar products, and the aim of this technology is to utilize recycled materials from flexible packaging films back into flexible packaging products. Virgin materials refer to materials created solely from new substances.