Supplier of inks and coatings Flint Group has expanded its resin production facility in Caronno, Italy, addressing what it says is a growing demand for nitrocellulose (NC)-free ink technologies in the flexible packaging sector.
The investment comes at a time as global NC supply becomes constrained due to the reallocation of NC production toward military-grade material. NC has historically been used as a propellant in firearms and other explosives and is commonly known by another name: guncotton.
Flint Group’s site has been in operation for over 30 years and produces more than 20,000 tonnes of resins annually. The company said the upgrade increases its capacity to produce resin intermediates for polyurethane (PU) and acrylic-based inks. This will strengthen Flint Group’s vertically integrated supply chain and secure access to essential raw materials, it explained.
The growth in the site has expanded production of Flint Group’s PU-based VertixCode (flexographic) and MatrixCode (gravure) ink lines, increasing capacity by 30% to meet growing demand and support compliance with upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) requirements. The inks are designed to improve packaging recyclability through high chemical stability and recycling compatibility. The expansion also enhances product consistency and performance through more precise control of raw materials and reagent dosing, the company said.
Gonzalo Alas Pumarino, executive vice president of operations and supply chain, Europe, for Flint Group, said: “Flint Group is committed to delivering market-leading PU solutions that align with the packaging industry’s evolving needs and its transition towards more sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions. Scaling up our NC-free resin production was a strategic investment for Flint Group to ensure our ability to provide a forward-looking alternative that mitigates dependence on nitrocellulose, ensuring greater long-term stability and sustainability for our customers. This investment underscores Flint Group’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility.”
