LASER reactive tech specialist DataLase has revealed how it is helping manufacturers and brand owners rethink the future of metal decoration, as demand grows for packaging solutions that combine strong visual impact with improved sustainability.
Used across food and beverage, household goods and personal care sectors, the firm said metal packaging remains ‘one of the most durable and recyclable’ packaging formats available. However, the methods used to decorate cans, bottles and containers are increasingly under scrutiny as producers look to reduce waste, simplify production and improve recyclability.
Traditional processes such as screen printing, inkjet and lithographic inks can present challenges when working across multiple container shapes and sizes at high production speeds. In many cases, pre-printed paper or film labels are applied instead, often requiring adhesives and multiple manufacturing steps. These additional materials can create ‘unnecessary complexity’ within supply chains and present challenges during recycling, DataLase explained.
The company offers an alternative through its proprietary laser-reactive coating technology. Applied as a clear coating and activated through laser imaging, the solution is designed to enable high-quality decoration directly onto metal surfaces without the need for labels, adhesives or conventional inks.
Working alongside Nordson Industrial Coating Solutions (ICS), DataLase technology can be integrated into manufacturing environments across a range of metal packaging formats. The process enables sharp graphics, QR codes, variable information and personalised designs.
Ally Grant, CTO of DataLase, said, “Metal packaging is already recognised as a highly recyclable format, so it makes sense that decoration methods should evolve to support the same sustainability goals. Our laser-reactive technology enables manufacturers to remove unnecessary materials, simplify operations, and create high-quality on-pack branding in a far more efficient way.”
Visitors to Metpack 2026 on 5-8 May will be able to see the technology via samples on the Nordson ICS stand.
