Chemical resistant labels

Chemical resistant labels are specifically designed to perform reliably under harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, both high and low, high humidity, and exposure to aggressive substances such as solvents, acids, oils and cleaning agents. They are commonly used in industries such as the chemical, pharmaceutical, metalworking, and automotive sectors, as well as laboratories.

All of our specialised materials are thoroughly tested against the requirements they have been developed for, in combination with the appropriate printer ribbon. This ensures long-lasting performance, resistance to wear, moisture, temperature changes, and exposure to chemicals such as ethanol, acetone, brake fluid, IPA, toluene and xylene. Chemical resistant labels also provide strong adhesion across a wide range of surfaces.

We strongly recommend testing a label material before purchase. Free sample material is available on request.

In ADR warehouses where hazardous substances or products are stored, such as flammable liquids or toxic and corrosive materials, we recommend a polyester label material with a chemical resistant laminate. Our M1008 polyester material features a strong adhesive and high chemical resistance, making it suitable for use as chemical proof labels in highly regulated environments.

If you choose ONE2ID to handle the design and manufacturing of your warehouse labels, we finish the labels with a chemically resistant laminate. In the event of accidental exposure to chemical liquids through spills or leakage, the rack labels will remain securely in place, while the laminate protects the printed information, so it remains clearly readable and scannable.

Simply put, a standard label does not meet the strict requirements that apply to chemical resistant labels. When using a conventional label material such as paper for chemical labelling, the print will quickly fade, and the labels themselves may peel off or even dissolve when exposed to solvents, harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Chemically resistant labels, by contrast, are developed for durability in demanding industrial environments. The combination of specialised materials, high-performance adhesives and topcoats ensures strong adhesion and long-term readability, even under harsh conditions. When paired with the appropriate printer ribbon, the printed data on the label also remains resistant to wear, humidity and chemical exposure over an extended period.

The exact information required on a chemical proof label depends on the industry in which it is used. Within the pharmaceutical sector, chemical resistant labels typically include details such as the name of the active ingredient, dosage, batch number, expiry date, storage guidelines and safety warnings. In the chemical industry, labels generally contain data such as the product name, CAS number, GHS symbols, H and P statements, batch number, production date and UN number.

Please note that stricter requirements for the readability of chemically resistant labels used for CLP substances will apply from 1 January 2027:

• Black text on a white background only
• Minimum line spacing must be 120% of the font size
• Only one typeface is allowed, which must be sans serif and clearly legible
• All text must be presented horizontally and must not fade over time

As regulations differ between industries, it is important to verify in advance which information is required before selecting a label material and printing your labels. The volume and type of information will directly influence the appropriate label size.

Yes, with a thermal transfer printer you can print chemical resistant labels that comply with industry standards and regulations in-house.

It is important to use the correct printer ribbon to achieve optimal results. For example, we recommend using R2308 ribbon with M1051 polyester, and R2300 ribbon with M1821 polyurethane to achieve maximum levels of chemical resistance. Please contact our label specialists for advice tailored to your requirements.