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Examining the pros and cons of clay-coated kraft papers (CCK) and polyethylene-coated papers (PCK).
The graphic arts market is dominated by two paper-based release liner options: clay-coated kraft papers (CCK) and polyethylene-coated papers (PCK). The AWA global market study "Pressure-Sensitive Graphic Films 2016" shows that CCK papers hold a share of 44%, and PCK papers have a share of 40%; both are mostly used worldwide as release liners. Additional release liner options for graphic art applications are glassine/SCK paper, with 12% market share; films, with 3%; and other papers, with 1%. Release liners must meet the graphic art market demands of good dimensional stability, high internal bond strength, high mechanical strength and rigidity excellent for manual handling.
The graphic art sector includes indoor advertising and branding, outdoor advertising and branding, vehicle graphics such as car wrapping, road traffic and safety markings, shelf markers, and architectural graphics. AWA reported for 2015 a global volume of 2.3 million sq m for pressure-sensitive graphic films. Key markets are North America and Europe, with a common market share of 54%.
CCK Grades Most Used in Europe
Market adoption is distinctly different in the U.S. and European markets. In Europe, CCK grades hold a 77% market share, according to the "AWA Global European Release Liner Study 2016" study, with PE coated taking 20%. This compares to just 40% for CCK in the U.S. market, cites the "AWA Global North America Release Liner Study 2014," with...