Glossary

component added to the adhesive to prevent labels from sticking together in the roll.

treatment or pigment that absorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect the ink or substrate.

Stable label after autoclave heat treatment, used in medical and laboratory settings.

linear graphic code for optical data reading (EAN-13, Code 128, GS1).

a set of units produced or printed simultaneously, often with a batch identifier on the label.

additional area (typically 2-3 mm) around the printable artwork to ensure the print covers the entire material after trimming.

plastic film used as a label substrate for its resistance to moisture, tearing, and solvents.

cyan, magenta, yellow, black color mode used for color printing of photorealistic labels.

paper with (or without) a coating for printing; the coated version offers better visual quality.

A printing process involving the transfer of metallic foil onto the label by pressure, to achieve a shiny gold or silver effect.

specialized adhesive used for electronic or contact identification applications.

two-dimensional matrix codes containing extensive information (serial number, URL, batch, date).

mechanical separation of individual labels from a continuous liner matrix.

Label die-cutting into a specific shape (round, oval, special cut) using a die.

Real-time tracking of the tag or product via connected systems (RFID, IoT).

the enlargement effect of ink dots during printing, which can make fine elements less precise.

flexible backing (plastic film, paper) used on curved or irregular surfaces.

a printing method using flexible relief plates, often used for large runs of roll labels.

flexible plate used to create a raised area for flexographic printing.

inks visible under UV or infrared light, used for security or control effects.

ink visible only under UV light, used for verification or security.

rotary printing technique using engraved cylinders, for very large color print runs.

Water-activated (gummed) label. Used for manual application to surfaces.

plastic support materials suitable for various industrial applications.

microchip embedded in an RFID tag or a smart label for information storage.

layout of labels to be printed on the medium (number of columns, margin, repetition) to optimize production.

thermal transfer printing (ribbon + thermal printhead).

contactless process, used for continuous personalization or small batches.

Lamination of two layers (films, papers) to create a composite material (e.g., paper + film).

applying a plastic film (matte, glossy, satin) to the label for additional protection.

application of a protective film (matte, glossy) to the label after printing.

laser engraving/marking on the label or product for high precision and permanence.

precise, contactless technique, requiring no liquid ink or ribbon.

printing process using latex inks, offering durability and odorless printing.

films or papers covered with a thin metallic coating (aluminum, silver) for decorative or security purposes.

small hole or series of micro-perforations to facilitate tearing or material breathability (useful on textile labels).

Ultra-small QR code that can be engraved/printed on a label for detailed traceability purposes.

A very small row of dots or data printed on the edge of a label for automatic alignment.

technology similar to RFID, enabling short-range reading between the tag and a smartphone.

material, often textile or felt, used for textile labels or flexible surfaces.

visible or invisible elements (UV, microtext, holograms) integrated into the label for anti-counterfeiting protection.

standardized color matching system, used to ensure color accuracy on labels.

adhesive that, once applied, cannot be removed without damaging the label or the substrate.

Durable film, used as a label substrate for extreme applications (chemical, electronics industries).

flexible film, often used for curved surfaces such as pipes, flexible bottles.

sturdy support, often used for demanding environments.

A PP plastic material widely used as a substrate for flexible labels, resistant to moisture and solvents.

thin and flexible chip that can be embedded under the printable layer of a label.

rigid or flexible plastic film, used for durable exposed labels.

printed marks for precise label alignment during rewinding / slitting.

adhesive designed for clean label removal without leaving residue.

adhesive allowing repositioning without damaging the label.

Ink highly resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and heat, primarily used in high-end thermal transfer applications.

Non-flexible backing (cardboard, rigid PVC) used for labels on hard products.

mechanism or rewinding to maintain label roll tension during printing.

reinforced varnish specially formulated to resist mechanical abrasion.

screen printing method for specific substrates, sometimes used in large-format or specialized labeling.

Applying varnish only to specific areas of the label (logo, design) for protection or visual effect.

adhesive liner onto which the label is applied.

Reactivity measurement of a material (substrate or adhesive) under stress or temperature change.

non-stick layer (paper or film) protecting the adhesive side of the label before application.

label integrating circuits, sensors, or connected chips to collect data (temperature, geolocation).

liquid used to dissolve certain inks or adhesives, which may damage unsuitable surfaces.

Organic solvent-based inks, suitable for challenging substrates (plastic, PVC, PE).

Embossing or raised relief applied to the label for visual effect or tactile recognition.

label technology that tears or indicates it has been tampered with, ensuring product integrity.

another term for direct thermal printing.

A system for continuous recording and monitoring of a product's journey from manufacturing to point of sale.

printing equipment that unwinds the media roll before printing or application.

UV-curable inks, offering excellent resistance to extreme conditions.

UV-cured varnish, protective and resistant.

more eco-friendly inks, often used for paper media.

Types of thermal transfer ribbons, classified by durability / adhesion.

Removal of peripheral waste around the labels to retain only the precise shape of the label.