Hop-Syn is the Plastic Alternative

Easy Printing, Tear Resistance, and Sustainability.

Tree-free Hop-Syn synthetic paper is emerging as the alternative to many traditional substrates, especially PVC plastic. More than just its environmental advantages, the Hop-Syn synthetic paper prints better than plastic and provides greater tear resistance. Jack Smith of Hop Industries, the manufacturer of Hop-Syn synthetic paper, shares some insight about how its substrate compares to other plastics.

 

Why should printers and brands choose Hop-Syn versus PVC-based vinyl for their printed promotions?

Jack Smith:: Printers and brands are choosing Hop-Syn synthetic paper because it’s more durable, tear resistant, waterproof, and weather resistant as compared to other plastics such as PVC vinyl and polystyrene. Hop-Syn’s higher dyne level is for better ink adhesion. Plus, its bright white finish allows printers to produce sharper graphics with a higher color resolution, which enhances the printed image. The Hop-Syn substrate also meets brands’ sustainability requirements because it is more environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable, whereas PVC plastics are not.

 

What makes Hop-Syn more environmentally friendly than other plastics?

JS:: Hop-Syn synthetic paper contains no heavy metals, chlorine, phthalates or other carcinogens found in other plastics, which are damaging to the environment. The Hop-Syn substrate is made from polypropylene and calcium carbonate, and is 100% recyclable under the recycling code #5.

 

What makes Hop-Syn different than other synthetic papers?

JS:: Hop-Syn synthetic paper is produced by high speed calendar into a single layered substrate made from a unique mixture of polypropylene (PP) resin, CaCO3 (calcium carbonate) and TiO2 (titanium dioxide). The calendaring process allows Hop-Syn to be formulated into different grades that offer a wide range of physical properties and thicknesses from .003 up to .035 gauge, up to a maximum roll width of 72″. This patented formulation contributes to a unique combination of features such its bright white finish, high opacity, high dyne level, tear resistance, UV resistance (up to one year outdoors), and a wide temperature resistance from -60F up to 220F.

 

What are the advantages of calendering?

JS:: Hop-Syn’s patented calendering process gives it its distinct characteristics. Unlike die extrusion or blown film extrusion used by other synthetic paper companies, the calendering process can produce a more uniform gauge control of +/- 5%. This allows flexo, offset and UV inkjet printers to print Hop-Syn synthetic paper at faster speeds for higher production and a more consistent print image. Choosing the right grade of Hop-Syn can unlock the unique physical properties that enable more complex applications to be easily manufactured.

 

How is Hop-Syn used by brands?

JS:: Based on its diverse printing properties and wide range of gauge thickness, Hop-Syn is suitable for printing high quality retail posters, store signs, menus, ID cards, horticultural tags, maps and manuals, where the application requires durability and a lasting image that will hold up  in harsh environments. The substrate is a tear resistant, white opaque plastic, that is 100% waterproof. With a smooth matte finish and a +/- 5% gauge tolerance Hop-Syn synthetic papers offer the print performance of paper, with the weather resistance and durability of plastic.

 

How quick can printers receive an order of Hop-Syn?

JS:: We can ship within 24 hours. Our NJ warehouse stores over 1,600,000 pounds of inventory. We also offer in-house slitting and sheeting capabilities for custom sheets and master rolls.


For test samples, technical information, or a price quote, contact Hop Industries at 1-800-524-0757.

 

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