SEALING LABEL, METHOD FOR PRODUCING A SEALING LABEL AND USE

Abstract

A sealing label (1) with a carrier ply (2), an adhesive layer (4), and an intermediate ply (3) arranged between the carrier ply (2) and the adhesive layer (4) with predetermined breaking points (30) for the internal separation of the intermediate ply (3), wherein the carrier ply (2) has at least a paper layer (21). A use of the sealing label (1), the production method thereof and a use of a carrier ply (2) including or consisting of a paper layer (21) for producing the sealing label (1).

Claims

1. A sealing label with a carrier ply, an adhesive layer, and an intermediate ply arranged between the carrier ply and the adhesive layer with predetermined breaking points for the internal separation of the intermediate ply, wherein the carrier ply has at least a paper layer.

2. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the carrier ply has a varnish layer, which is arranged on the side of the paper layer facing the intermediate ply.

3. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate ply is completely overlapped by the varnish layer, or the varnish layer extends beyond the intermediate ply.

4. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the varnish layer is semitransparent or transparent.

5. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the varnish layer is colorless and/or has no colorants.

6. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the varnish layer is formed of a UV-curing varnish.

7. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the varnish layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 10 μm, and/or is applied to the paper layer with an application weight in a range of from 2 g/m.sup.2 to 20 g/m.sup.2.

8. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the paper layer comprises or consists of a transparent paper.

9. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the paper layer forms a first outer surface of the sealing label.

10. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the paper layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm.

11. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the paper layer has a decorative ply.

12. The sealing label according to claim 11, wherein the decorative ply comprises or consists of a printed layer.

13. The sealing label according to claim 11, wherein the decorative ply comprises or consists of a metal layer.

14. The sealing label according to claim 11, wherein the decorative ply comprises or consists of an optically variable element.

15. The sealing label according to claim 11, wherein the decorative ply is applied in register.

16. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate ply has the following layers: a first functional layer for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply, applied to the carrier ply not over the whole surface, a first color layer applied to the carrier ply and first functional layer, a second functional layer for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply, applied to the first color layer not over the whole surface, a second color layer, applied to the second functional layer and first color layer over the whole surface.

17. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first functional layer is designed such that the adhesive force between first functional layer and first color layer is smaller than the adhesive force between first color layer and a layer directly adjacent to it, and wherein the second functional layer is designed such that the adhesive force between second functional layer and first color layer is smaller than the adhesive force between second functional layer and a layer directly adjacent to it.

18. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first functional layer is applied directly to the varnish layer.

19. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the adhesive layer is applied to the second color layer over the whole surface.

20. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first and second functional layers are arranged not overlapping at least in areas.

21. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the first functional layer anond functional layer is UV-luminescent.

22. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first functional layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm.

23. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first functional layer is formed of a water-based dispersion paint.

24. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first color layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm.

25. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the first color layer is formed of a UV-curable printing ink.

26. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the second functional layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm.

27. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the second functional layer is formed of a water-based dispersion paint.

28. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the second color layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm.

29. The sealing label according to claim 16, wherein the second color layer is formed of a UV-curable printing ink.

30. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the adhesive force between the second color layer and the adhesive layer to the adhesive force between the first color layer and the first functional layer is greater than 1.

31. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the adhesive force between the varnish layer and the first functional layer to the adhesive force between the first functional layer and the first color layer is greater than 1, and/or wherein the ratio of the adhesive force between the first color layer and the second color layer to the adhesive force between the first color layer and the first functional layer is greater than 1.

32. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer is designed such that the adhesive force between the adhesive layer and a substrate surface to which the adhesive layer is to be glued is higher than 5 N/cm.

33. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the adhesive force between the varnish layer and the first color layer to the adhesive force between the first functional layer and the first color layer is greater than 1.

34. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the adhesive force between the first color layer and the second color layer to the adhesive force between the first color layer and the second functional layer is greater than 1.

35. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate ply is designed such that predetermined breaking points are additionally present in the carrier ply.

36. The sealing label according to claim 35, wherein the predetermined breaking points present in the carrier ply adjoin the first and/or second functional layer at an opening area.

37. The sealing label according to claim 35, wherein the predetermined breaking points present in the carrier ply extend at least partially into one or more of the following plies and layers: the varnish layer, the intermediate ply.

38. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer has a layer thickness in a range of from 10 μm to 50 μm, and/or is deposited on the intermediate ply with an application weight in a range of from 10 g/m.sup.2 to 50 g/m.sup.2.

39. The sealing label according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer comprises or consists of one or more materials selected from acrylate, natural rubber, synthetic rubber.

40. A method for producing a sealing label, the method comprising: a) providing a carrier ply, wherein the carrier ply has at least a paper layer, b) applying an intermediate ply to the carrier ply, wherein the intermediate ply has predetermined breaking points for the internal separation of the intermediate ply, or the predetermined breaking points are produced in the intermediate ply, and c) applying an adhesive layer to the intermediate ply.

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the following step is carried out between step a) and step b): a1) applying a varnish layer to the paper layer, and wherein the intermediate ply is applied to the varnish layer in step b).

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein the varnish layer is applied in step a1) by means of flexographic printing.

43. The method according to claim 40, further comprising: applying a decorative ply to the paper layer.

44. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decorative ply is applied in register.

45. The method according to claim 40, wherein step b) comprises the following steps: b1) applying a first functional layer for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply, not over the whole surface; b2) applying a first color layer to the carrier ply and first functional layer (31); b3) applying a second functional layer for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply to the first color layer not over the whole surface; and b4) applying a second color layer to the second functional layer and first color layer over the whole surface.

46. The method according to claim 40, wherein the first functional layer has been or is provided with UV-luminescent pigments and a register mark is produced, which is irradiated with UV light before the application of the second functional layer in step b3) and the position of the register mark is determined with the aid of the emitted light.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0125] The invention will be explained below by way of example with reference to several embodiment examples with the aid of the accompanying drawings. There are shown in:

[0126] FIG. 1a sealing label in cross section,

[0127] FIG. 2a a sealing label in cross section,

[0128] FIG. 2b an opened sealing label in cross section,

[0129] FIG. 3a a sealing label in cross section,

[0130] FIG. 3b an opened sealing label in cross section,

[0131] FIG. 4a a sealing label in cross section,

[0132] FIG. 4b an opened sealing label in cross section,

[0133] FIG. 5 a method for producing a sealing label.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0134] FIG. 1 schematically shows a cross section of an example of a sealing label 1. By a viewing perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1 is preferably meant here a viewing in top view, thus, in particular in FIG. 1, perpendicularly from top to bottom.

[0135] The sealing label 1 has a carrier ply 2, an adhesive layer 4 and an intermediate ply 3.

[0136] The intermediate ply 3 is arranged between the carrier ply 2 and the adhesive layer 4. The intermediate ply 3 has predetermined breaking points 30 for the internal separation of the intermediate ply 3. The carrier ply 2 has at least the paper layer 21. The intermediate ply 3 is in particular designed such that it can be ripped or rips along the dashed separating line, which represents the predetermined breaking points 30, preferably when the sealing label 1 is glued to a sealed product and a force is introduced into the sealing label 1 via the carrier ply 2. As is shown by way of example in FIG. 1, the predetermined breaking points 30 can run along a direction between carrier ply 2 and adhesive layer 4 and also perpendicularly to this direction. Here, the z direction is thus in particular formed by a vertical direction.

[0137] The predetermined breaking points 30 can in particular be provided with a structure described in relation to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a and 4b. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the predetermined breaking points to have been or be provided or supported by means of gaps in the respective layer material, punched holes and/or perforations.

[0138] It is also conceivable that the sealing label 1 has an opening area, which is formed corresponding to the section represented by FIG. 1. Outside of the section, the sealing label 1 can also be without intermediate ply or at least without functional layers, for example, as can be seen by way of example in FIG. 4b, or also be formed without color layers. It is furthermore possible for the carrier ply 2 to have a tab, not represented here, for detaching the sealing label 1 from the sealed article.

[0139] The method for producing the sealing label 1 is described by way of example in relation to FIG. 5.

[0140] The paper layer 21 is preferably self-supporting. It is further possible that a plane spanned by the sealing label 1, here thus in particular in top view onto the sealing label 1, the paper layer 21 is completely comprised by the sealing label 1 and/or the sealing label 1 has the paper layer 21 over the whole surface. The paper layer 21 expediently fulfils the supporting function of the carrier ply 2. The paper layer 21 advantageously forms a first outer surface of the sealing label 1, which is represented in FIG. 1 for example by the uppermost side of the sealing label 1. The first outer surface can advantageously be coated, in particular can be printed on and/or is printed on at least in areas. The paper layer 21 in particular has a layer thickness in a range of from 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm. The paper layer 21 is, for example, arranged directly on the intermediate ply 3. However, it is also possible to provide the side of the paper layer 21 facing the intermediate ply 3 with a coating, in particular a varnish layer, as is described for example in relation to FIGS. 2 to 4. Advantageously, the paper layer 21 and the carrier ply 2 are semitransparent or transparent, in particular for wavelengths in a range of from 380 nm to 780 nm, preferably for wavelengths in the wavelength range visible to the human eye. A transparent paper is expediently used as paper layer 21. Transparent papers comprise, for example, silk papers, impregnated papers, plant-based papers and/or glassine. For example, the transparent paper, in particular from Canson, has a mass per unit area in the range of from 40 g/m.sup.2 to 45 g/m.sup.2, preferably a transmittance between 83% and 85%, preferably a haze value of 100% and in particular an image sharpness value of from 1.70% to 1.85%. For example, a transparent paper, in particular from Canson, is also possible which, with a mass per unit area of 70 g/m.sup.2, has a transmittance of from 80% to 82%, a haze value of 100% and an image sharpness value of from 1.45% to 1.5%.

[0141] Through the paper layer 21 it is in particular achieved that an environmentally friendly carrier ply 2 with at the same time a good printability can be used, wherein it is possible to save on aftertreatments or further adhesion promoters and a first opening can be reliably proved.

[0142] FIG. 2a schematically shows an example of a sealing label 1 in a closed state, wherein this can for example also be a state glued to the product to be sealed. FIG. 2b schematically shows an example of a sealing label 1 in particular in an opened state. Here, the lower part with the adhesive layer 4 is for example glued to the product to be sealed or a substrate. In the opened state the opening feature, through which in particular the first opening can be proved, is preferably visible in top view. In the opened state the sealing label 1 is thus ripped corresponding to the predetermined breaking points 30, preferably in the opening area. The sealing label 1 of FIG. 2b has been gripped, for example, by a person using a tab (not represented) of the carrier layer 2 and peeled off. In the process, the sealing label 1 breaks open along the predetermined breaking line 30 according to FIG. 1, a peeled-off carrier ply 2, thus the part represented at the top in FIG. 2b, and a residue remaining on the sealed product, thus the part represented at the bottom in FIG. 2b, form.

[0143] FIG. 2a schematically shows in particular the sealing label 1 represented in FIG. 1, wherein the carrier ply 2 additionally has the varnish layer 22 and the intermediate ply 3 has the first functional layer 31, the second functional layer 32, the first color layer 33 and the second color layer 34. The intermediate ply 3 shown in FIG. 2a has the following layer structure, for example: [0144] the functional layer 31 for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply 3, applied to the carrier ply 2, in particular to the varnish layer 22, not over the whole surface; [0145] the first color layer 33 applied to the carrier ply 2, in particular the varnish layer 22, and the first functional layer 31, [0146] the second functional layer 32 for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply 3, applied to the side of the first color layer 33 facing away from the carrier ply 2, not over the whole surface, [0147] the second color layer 34, applied to the second functional layer 32 and first color layer 33 over the whole surface, wherein the second color layer 34 is arranged on the side of the intermediate ply 3 facing the adhesive layer 4.

[0148] Expediently, step b) of the production method comprises the following steps in the specified order: [0149] b1) applying the first functional layer 31 for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply 3 to the carrier ply 2 not over the whole surface, [0150] b2) applying a first color layer 33, in particular to the carrier ply 2 and first functional layer 31, [0151] b3) applying a second functional layer 32 for setting an adhesive force in the intermediate ply 3 to the first color layer 33, preferably not over the whole surface, [0152] b4) applying a second color layer 34, in particular to the second functional layer 31 and first color layer 33, preferably over the whole surface.

[0153] The first color layer 33 preferably has been or is applied to the carrier ply 2, in particular the varnish layer 22, over the whole surface or at least arranged in the intermediate ply 3 or in the opening area over the whole surface, if the intermediate ply 3 has been or is applied to the carrier ply 2 not over the whole surface. The first functional layer 31 in particular has been or is applied directly to the varnish layer 22, i.e. preferably without further layers between the first functional layer 21 and the varnish layer 22. The further layers can likewise be applied directly to one another, as is shown by way of example and schematically by FIG. 2a.

[0154] The first and second functional layers 31, 32 preferably have been or are formed complementary to one another. Complementary means that, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1, here for example in a top view, the two functional layers 31, 32 cover the entire plane in the opening area and the functional layers 31 and 32 do not overlap. Here, the second functional layer 32 is formed corresponding to the first functional layer 31 and also printed on in the same way. In particular, the second functional layer 32 has been or is partially applied as a negative of the first functional layer 31, preferably applied to the first color layer 33.

[0155] Water-based dispersion paints have been or are used for example for the first and second functional layers 31, 32. UV-curing varnishes or UV-curing printing inks preferably have been or are used here for the varnish layer 22, the first color layer 33 and the second color layer 33. The UV-curing varnishes or printing inks preferably have been or are cured by means of UV light after the application of the respective layer. The second color layer 34 can have a color identical to or different from that of the first color layer 33. The first and second color layers 33 and 34 preferably have been or are formed in different colors and preferably chosen to be as high contrast as possible. For example, a blue color layer has been or is deposited as first color layer 33 and a white color layer has been or is deposited as second color layer 34. Here, by color is preferably meant the entire color spectrum of the Panton® or RAL® colors as well as black and white. Flexographic printing is used here, for example, for the application of the first and second functional layers 31, 32, the first and second color layers 33, 34 and the varnish layer 22.

[0156] The first functional layer 31 preferably has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm. The first color layer 33 preferably has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μmm. The second functional layer 32 preferably has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm. The second color layer 34 in particular has a layer thickness in a range of from 1 μm to 5 μm. The layer thickness of the adhesive layer 4 preferably lies in a range of from 10 μm to 50 μm. In particular, the adhesive layer 4 has been or is deposited on the intermediate ply 3, in particular the second color layer 34, with an application weight in a range of from 10 g/m.sup.2 to 50 g/m.sup.2. The adhesive layer 4 of the sealing label 1 shown in FIG. 2a preferably has an adhesive layer with an application weight of 25 g/m.sup.2.

[0157] In particular, the adhesive layer 4 comprises or the adhesive layer 4 consists of acrylate, natural rubber, synthetic rubber or combinations thereof. The adhesive layer preferably has been or is applied as a PSA (pressure sensitive adhesive) layer, which is preferably formed as an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive. The sealing label 1 is in particular glued, or can be glued, to the product to be sealed by means of the adhesive layer 4.

[0158] For the application of the adhesive layer 4, the adhesive layer 4 is laminated on, for example in the form of a so-called “Transfer Fix”. A “Transfer Fix” in particular describes a bonding agent which is placed between two transparent films, preferably also called liners. In the method for producing the sealing label, one of the two transparent films, in particular the two liners, is preferably peeled off and the bonding agent is laminated on the remaining transparent film, in particular the remaining liner, on the side of the intermediate ply facing away from the carrier ply, in particular laminated on the second color layer.

[0159] Acrylic bonding agents are preferably used for the adhesive layer 4. They advantageously have a very good resistance to external influences, such as for example UV irradiation, humidity or solvents, and the adhesive properties can be very easily set and controlled in the polymerization process. A sufficient adhesion can thus be achieved for a wide variety of product substrates, in particular packaging substrates, such as paper, cardboard, paperboard, glass, ceramic, plastic, metal, etc. The adhesive layer is preferably designed such that the adhesive force of the agent used on the respective product substrate is greater than 5 N/cm and thus is preferably much greater than the forces for separating the color and functional layers used from one another, which preferably lie in the cN/cm range.

[0160] The adhesive layer 4 preferably has been or is arranged on the intermediate ply 3 over the whole surface, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1. The adhesive layer 4 preferably has been or is applied to the second color layer 34 over the whole surface, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1.

[0161] The functional layers represented in FIG. 2a are preferably formed as a release varnish layer. As is shown in FIG. 2b, the first color layer 33 can in particular thus be detached from the functional layers 31 and 32.

[0162] It is also conceivable that at least one layer or both layers out of the first functional layer 31 and second functional layer 32 are formed as primer, in particular in order to form the predetermined breaking points 30 on a side of the first color layer 31 which is facing away from the primer. Thus, the functional layers can be used in order to define the predetermined breaking points.

[0163] In particular, through the adhesive forces of the layers of the sealing label 1 described further above and their ratios to one another, it is possible to provide predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3, as are represented by way of example in FIG. 1. For this purpose, the first functional layer 31 preferably reduces the adhesive force between the first color layer 33 and the carrier ply 2, in particular compared with surrounding areas when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label. The second functional layer 32 preferably reduces the adhesive force between first color layer 33 and adhesive layer 4, for example by reducing the adhesive force between first color layer 33 and second color layer 44, in particular compared with surrounding areas viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label.

[0164] Thus, it is possible, during the detachment of the carrier ply, for the first color layer 21 to be detached from the carrier ply 2 in an area determined by the first functional layer 21 and to remain on the adhesive layer 4, in particular to remain on the second color layer 34. It is further possible, during the detachment of the carrier ply 2, for the first color layer 33 to be detached from the adhesive layer 4 in an area determined by the second functional layer 32 and thus to be detached with the carrier ply 2, thus the first color layer 33 separates within itself and, outside of the areas determined by the first functional layer 31, is detached together with the carrier ply 2.

[0165] Expediently, the first and second functional layers 31, 32 have been or are arranged not overlapping at least in areas, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1, thus here a top view. The first and second functional layers 31, 32 preferably have been or are formed complementary to one another. In particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label, thus here a top view, the two functional layers 31, 32 therefore cover the entire surface in the opening area of the sealing label and do not overlap. In particular, the second functional layer 32 has been or is partially applied as a negative of the first functional layer 31, preferably applied to the first color layer 33.

[0166] For establishing the adhesive forces using the method described further above, in each case one or more layers of the sealing label 1 described in relation to FIG. 2b, on which the adhesive force of the corresponding sample is not to be measured, can be omitted for example.

[0167] It has additionally proved to be advantageous for at least one of the first functional layer 31 and second functional layer 32 to be UV-luminescent. In particular, a register mark has been or is produced in the respective layer by means of UV-luminescent pigments. The UV luminescence can advantageously be used for detecting the position of the register mark. It has in particular proved to be advantageous for the first functional layer 31 preferably to have been or be provided with UV-luminescent pigments. In particular, a register mark, which is preferably irradiated with UV light before the application of the second functional layer 32 in step b3), has been or is produced in the first functional layer 31 preferably by means of UV-luminescent pigments and the position of the register mark is determined with the aid of the emitted light and is then preferably used for the alignment of the second functional layer 32 in register with the first color layer 31.

[0168] It is also conceivable that the second functional layer 32 has been or is provided with UV-luminescent pigments. In particular, a register mark, which is irradiated with UV light, has been or is produced preferably by means of the UV-luminescent pigments and the position of the register mark is determined with the aid of the emitted light and is then preferably used for the alignment of the decorative ply in register, as is described in more detail for example in relation to FIG. 3.

[0169] The first and/or second functional layer 31, 32 preferably has a proportion of UV-luminescent pigments in a range between 0.5 and 10 percent by mass, preferably between 2.5 and 5 percent by mass, in the mass of the respective functional layer.

[0170] An improved register accuracy can be achieved for example through the UV luminescence.

[0171] In an improved embodiment, the carrier ply 2, in particular the paper layer 21 and preferably also the optional varnish layer 22, has no UV-luminescent constituents, in particular no optical, UV-luminescent brighteners. The carrier ply 2 preferably has, in particular over the whole surface, a transmittance of over 90% in the range of UV wavelengths, in particular in the wavelength range of from 280 nm to 380 nm. In particular, the process for register-accurate printing of the functional layers 31, 32 or the decorative ply is thus improved by avoiding an additional UV luminescence.

[0172] As can furthermore be seen in particular in FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b, the varnish layer 22, which the carrier ply 2 has, is arranged on the side of the paper layer 21 facing the intermediate ply 3. The varnish layer 22 is preferably a leveling layer, which for example reduces the absorbency and/or unevenness and/or roughness of the paper layer 21, preferably on one side in cross section, on the side to which the intermediate ply 3 has been or is applied, and/or sets them to a substantially constant value in terms of area, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1. The varnish layer 22 is advantageously also a stabilization layer, which for example increases the tear resistance of the carrier ply 2. The following step is expediently carried out between step a) and step b):

[0173] al) applying a varnish layer 22 to the paper layer 21.

[0174] It is also conceivable that step al) is carried out before step a) and the carrier ply 2 is provided together with paper layer 21 and varnish layer 22 in step a). The intermediate ply 3 is preferably applied to the varnish layer 22 in step b). The carrier ply 2 preferably consists exclusively of the varnish layer 22 and the paper layer 21.

[0175] Advantageously, through the varnish layer 22, the optical properties of the carrier ply 2 can be influenced in a targeted manner and thus, for example, an improved visibility of a first opening can be achieved and, through the varnish layer 22, in particular a constant separation behavior, preferably of the intermediate ply 3, can be achieved, for example also across different paper batches. Furthermore, a particularly reliable and simple adaptation of the varnish layer 22 and the intermediate ply 3 to one another can be achieved for producing the predetermined breaking points.

[0176] The layer thickness of the varnish layer 22 preferably lies in a range of from 1 μm to 10 μm, particularly preferably from 1 μm to 5 μm. The varnish layer 22 expediently has been or is applied to the paper layer 21 with an application weight in a range of from 2 g/cm.sup.2 to 20 g/cm.sup.2, in particular from 2 g/m.sup.2 to 10 g/m.sup.2. If a transparent paper and/or a paper layer with a mass of, for example, 50 g/m.sup.2 has been or is used as paper layer, then the varnish layer 22 advantageously has a layer thickness in a range of from 3 μm to 7 μm.

[0177] The measurement of the layer thickness is preferably carried out on a cross section. If the layer thickness in the sealing label is influenced by an absorbent substrate, the layer thickness is in particular established on a non-absorbent substrate, as described above for example, and/or established, for example, immediately during the depositing of the corresponding ply or layer.

[0178] The varnish layer 22 preferably has been or is applied to the paper layer 21 over the whole surface. It is also possible for the intermediate ply 3 to be completely overlapped by the varnish layer 22 and/or for the varnish layer 22 to be present only in the opening area, in particular when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1. It is further possible for the varnish layer 22 to extend beyond the intermediate ply 3.

[0179] In particular, the varnish layer 22 is semitransparent or transparent, in particular for wavelengths in a range of from 380 nm to 780 nm, preferably for wavelengths in the wavelength range visible to the human eye. In the example of FIG. 2, the varnish layer 22 preferably has a transmittance of over 90%, preferably for wavelengths in a range of from 380 nm to 780 nm, in particular for wavelengths in the wavelength range visible to the human eye. It is further possible for the varnish layer 22 to be colorless or to have no colorants, in particular for wavelengths in a range of from 380 nm to 780 nm, preferably at least in the wavelength range visible to the human eye.

[0180] The varnish layer 22 is preferably formed of a UV-curing varnish. A UV-curing varnish preferably is or has been cured by means of UV irradiation.

[0181] The UV-curing varnish preferably comprises the following three groups of UV-reactive materials: monomers or crosslinkers, binders or oligomers, and photoinitiators. Monomers or crosslinkers are used in particular for dissolving the binders, for setting the viscosity and the crosslinking of the UV system. Binders or oligomers are in particular mainly responsible for the properties in the cured state of the UV-curing varnish, such as for example scratch resistance, flexibility, elasticity and adhesion to substrates.

[0182] Photoinitiators in particular decompose photochemically or by means of electron beam radiation into radicals and thereby induce crosslinking reactions in the UV varnish.

[0183] The UV varnish of the varnish layer 22 preferably comprises binders, also referred to as resins or oligomers, which comprise crosslinkable groups selected from: olefinic groups, vinyl ether groups or epoxide groups, acrylate oligomers and acrylate monomers, methacrylates, acrylated polyesters, polyethers or polyurethanes.

[0184] The UV varnish preferably comprises monomers or crosslinkers selected individually or in combination from: butyl acrylate, (2-ethylhexyl) acrylate, as well as in particular multifunctional acrylates, such as 1,4-butanediol di(meth)acrylate, 1,6-hexanediol di(meth)acrylate or trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate.

[0185] The UV varnish preferably comprises photoinitiators or photoinitiator systems, in particular radical photoinitiators, and in particular comprises selected individually or in combination from: ketone derivatives, diisopropyl xanthogen disulfide compounds, acetophenone compounds, benzophenones or benzoins.

[0186] The varnish layer 22, in particular the UV varnish, preferably has been or is applied to the paper layer with an application weight in a range of from 2 g/m.sup.2 to 20 g/m.sup.2, in particular from 2 g/cm.sup.2 to 10 g/m.sup.2. The varnish layer 22, in particular the UV varnish, preferably has been or is applied with a viscosity in a range of from 200 mPa*s to 500 mPa*s. It is hereby guaranteed, for example, that the varnish layer 22 levels out irregularities in the paper layer 21 because on the one hand it is not absorbed too much and on the other hand it runs sufficiently to form an even surface.

[0187] It is also conceivable that only one of the two functional layers has been or is provided. It is further possible for the predetermined breaking points alternatively or additionally to have been or be provided or supported with gaps in the respective layer material, for example punched holes or perforations.

[0188] FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b schematically show a cross section of an example of a sealing label 1, in particular the sealing label 1 described in relation to FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b, wherein the sealing label 1 is additionally provided with the decorative ply 5. The decorative ply 5 can advantageously have been or be applied directly to the paper layer 21. In particular in top view, the decorative ply 5 preferably forms a second outer surface of the sealing label.

[0189] The decorative ply 5 has been or is applied in particular partially, preferably in the shape of a motif. By “in the shape of a motif” is meant, for example, in one or more shapes out of geometric shape, guilloche, endless pattern, image, symbol, logo, coat of arms, portrait, alphanumeric characters, QR code, barcode. Herewith, for example logistical information, expiry dates or weblinks can also have been or be applied in the form of QR codes. It is thus possible for the paper layer 21 to form a first outer surface of the sealing label 1 and the decorative ply 5 to form a second outer surface of the sealing label 1, preferably when viewed in top view.

[0190] It is possible for the decorative ply 5 advantageously to comprise or consist of a printed layer. The decorative ply 5 is preferably applied by means of a method selected individually or in combination from flexographic printing, offset printing, gravure printing, pad printing, inkjet printing, xerography, cold stamping, hot stamping, thermal transfer. It is also conceivable that the decorative ply 5 comprises or consists of a metal layer. In addition, it is possible for the decorative ply 5 to comprise or consist of an optically variable element.

[0191] In particular, also in the closed state, the decorative ply 5 can give the sealing label 1 a visually appealing impression. Advantageously, the decorative ply 5 can also be applied at a very late manufacturing stage and with a very individual shaping, with the result that an improved individualizability of the sealing labels is achieved. In addition, the decorative ply 5 can form a very strong bond with the paper layer 21 due to the absorbency of the paper layer 21 on the first outer surface, with the result that, through the decorative ply 5, at the same time the stability can be improved and, for example, a wide range of printing inks and printing methods can be used.

[0192] The decorative ply 5 preferably has been or is applied in register, in particular in register with the intermediate ply 3, preferably with the first functional layer 31 and/or with the second functional layer 32. If the first functional layer 31 and/or the second functional layer 32 has a register mark, in particular a register mark formed by means of UV-luminescent pigments, this is preferably detected, and its position used for the register-accurate application of the decorative ply 5.

[0193] FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b schematically show a cross section of a sealing label 1, as is described for example in relation to FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b, which additionally has a predetermined breaking point 20. The sealing label 1 can also have the decorative ply 5 described in relation to FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b or be provided with it.

[0194] The intermediate ply 3 is in particular designed such that a predetermined breaking point 20 is additionally present in the carrier ply 2. The position of the predetermined breaking point 20 is indicated in FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b with the dashed line, which is depicted passing right through for better clarity, although the predetermined breaking point 20 is preferably not present in all layers, as can be seen from FIG. 4b. As can further be seen in particular from FIG. 4b, it is possible for the opening area to represent only a partial area of the sealing label 1 and/or for the opening area to be delimited by the predetermined breaking point 20 in the carrier ply 2.

[0195] Such predetermined breaking points 20 preferably have been or are provided in that, in an area in which in particular no predetermined breaking points 30 are provided in the intermediate ply 3, the adhesive forces within and between carrier ply 2, intermediate ply 3 and adhesive layer 4 are set to be higher than in an area with the predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3. The carrier ply 2 together with the parts of the intermediate ply 3 detached by the internal separation of the intermediate ply 3 can thus be detached and are preferably ripped at an area of transition to the area without predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3, in particular at an outer limit of the opening area. For example, it is possible to provide at least the first and second functional layers 31 and 32 only in the area with predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3, i.e.

[0196] thus not to provide at least the first and second functional layers 31 and 32 in particular in the area without predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3. It is also conceivable not to provide the intermediate ply 3 in the area without a predetermined breaking point in the intermediate ply 3 or in particular to provide only the carrier ply 2 and the adhesive layer 4. The areas are preferably defined when viewed perpendicular to a plane spanned by the sealing label 1, thus in a top view.

[0197] The area without predetermined breaking points 30 in the intermediate ply 3 has, for example, a width of at least 0.5 mm, in particular in a range of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm.

[0198] By means of the predetermined breaking point 20 in the carrier ply 2, a paper tear can advantageously be induced during the detachment of the carrier ply 2 or the opening of the label and the proof of opening can be improved, in particular compared with labels with thermoplastic films as carrier.

[0199] As can further be seen in FIG. 4, it is possible for the predetermined breaking points 20 present in the carrier ply 2 to extend at least partially into one or more of the following plies and layers: the varnish layer 22, the intermediate ply 3, the first color layer 33, the second color layer 34.

[0200] As FIG. 4 illustrates, it is also possible in particular for the opening area to represent only a partial area of the sealing label 1. In FIG. 4b, the opening area can be seen to the left of the dashed line by way of example. The opening area can thus be delimited for example by the predetermined breaking point 20 in the carrier ply.

[0201] FIG. 5 shows a method for producing a sealing label, as is described for example in relation to FIGS. 1 to 4. The method for producing comprises the steps, in particular in the specified order: [0202] step a): providing 101 a carrier ply 2, wherein the carrier ply 2 has at least a paper layer 21, [0203] step b): applying 102 an intermediate ply 3 to the carrier ply 2, wherein the intermediate ply 3 has predetermined breaking points 30 for the internal separation of the intermediate ply 3 or the predetermined breaking points 30 are produced in the intermediate ply 3, [0204] step c): applying 103 an adhesive layer 4 to the intermediate ply 3.

[0205] It is also possible, for example, to use the paper layer 21 as carrier ply 2 for producing one or more sealing labels 1, as are described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0206] It is in particular possible, in the method for producing the sealing label 1, to prepare several sealing labels 1 preferably on a self-supporting paper layer 21, for example as separate sheets or as a continuous web, which labels can then preferably be separated by mechanical separation, for example punching, cutting or by means of lasers. The separation can, for example, take place before the application of the decorative ply, and the application of the decorative ply can be carried out in particular after intermediate storage or transport, for example to a packaging process.

[0207] The sealing label 1 is used in particular for sealing a product. It is possible here for the following step to be carried out before and/or after an application of the sealing label 1 to the product to be sealed: [0208] applying a decorative ply 5, which in particular forms a second outer surface of the sealing label 1, to the paper layer 21, in particular printing it on. As is described in relation to FIG. 3, a sealing label 1 produced in this way can in particular be designed wherein the adhesive layer 4 is glued to the product to be sealed.

[0209] A use of a carrier ply 2 comprising or consisting of a paper layer 21 for producing a sealing label 1 as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 and for carrying out a method, as described in relation to FIG. 5, is advantageous in particular.

List of Reference Numbers:

[0210] 1 sealing label

[0211] 2 carrier ply

[0212] 21 paper layer

[0213] 22 varnish layer

[0214] 3 intermediate ply

[0215] 20, 30 predetermined breaking points

[0216] 31, 32 functional layers

[0217] 33, 34 color layers

[0218] 4 adhesive layer

[0219] 5 decorative ply