Stroke paper

Stroking is a type of printed and cut paper in which a thin layer of plastic or polymer (usually polyethylene) is added to the surface of the paper. This plastic layer makes the paper more durable and able to hold liquids without leaking or degrading. Essentially, stroking paper refers to papers with this protective layer, which are used for producing paper cups and similar products.

Using stroked paper in the production of paper cups offers several advantages, including:

Liquid resistance: The plastic layer prevents liquids from penetrating the paper, so cups made from this paper can hold both hot and cold liquids without leaking or deteriorating.
Increased durability: Stroking paper cups are more resilient and withstand various conditions, including heat and moisture, more effectively.
High-quality printing: The stroking layer helps the paper hold colors and designs with high quality without fading, which is essential for branding and advertising.

Stroked paper is one of the key raw materials in the production of paper cups, and choosing the right type can significantly impact the final product’s quality.

The main material of stroking in the production of paper cups is paper, which is coated with a layer of polyethylene (PE) or other polymer materials. This plastic layer ensures that the paper has enhanced resistance against liquid penetration.

Therefore, stroking consists of two main components:

• Paper: Serving as the primary base, acting as the body of the paper cup.
• Polyethylene (PE) or similar polymer materials: A thin plastic layer added to the surface of the paper to prevent liquid penetration and enhance the cup’s resistance and durability.

This combination of paper and polymer gives it water-resistant properties and liquid resistance, making it suitable for the production of paper cups, disposable containers, and other similar products.

The size of the stroke and the weight of the paper used for these products vary depending on the desired cup volume. They are produced from 160, 170, and 180-gram raw sanitary paper in volumes of 70, 110, 120, 180, 220, and 360 cc. Stronger cups are made from higher gram papers, while lower gram papers are used for producing economical disposable paper cups.

The stroke comes in different dimensions and is produced in general, specific, and custom designs. Volumes of 220 and 180 cc are the best-selling and most suitable options for printing due to their dimensions and volume, making them ideal for use and design on the cup body. Custom and exclusive designs are available in one-color, two-color, and four-color options.

Stroke in industry serves as a key material with various applications in the production of different products. Here are some of the main uses of stroke in industry:

1. Production of Paper Cups
   • Hot Beverage Cups: Stroke-treated paper cups are used for hot beverages like coffee and tea due to their resistance to heat and liquid penetration.
   • Cold Beverage Cups: These cups are also suitable for cold drinks as the stroke layer prevents moisture absorption and liquid leakage.
2. Production of Disposable Paper Containers
   • Plates and Food Containers: Disposable paper containers used for serving food are often made from stroke-treated paper to prevent oil and liquid leakage.
   • Takeout Food Packaging: Boxes and paper packaging for fast food and takeout items are made from stroke-treated paper to ensure greater durability.
3. Food Packaging
   • Food Packaging Materials: Stroke is used in packaging materials like milk and juice cartons as the polyethylene layer prevents liquids from leaking out and extends the product’s shelf life.
   • Frozen Food Packaging: Packaging for frozen foods also benefits from stroke to protect against moisture and temperature changes.
4. Production of Paper Bags
   • Oil-Resistant Bags: Paper bags for oily and greasy foods, such as french fries bags, are made from stroke-treated paper to prevent oil from leaking out of the bags.
   • Moisture-Resistant Bags: Bags for storing dry or moisture-sensitive food items are made from stroke-treated paper to prevent moisture penetration.
5. Other Industrial Applications
   • Water-Resistant Coatings: Stroke-treated paper is used in the production of water-resistant coatings for various products, including construction materials and industrial packaging.
   • Protective Coatings: In some industrial applications, stroke-treated paper is used as a protective coating to shield materials and products from moisture and harsh environmental conditions.
6. Advertising and Branding
   • Printing and Advertising on Cups and Packaging: The use of stroke-treated paper in cups and packaging allows for high-quality, durable printing of advertisements and brand logos on products.

These applications highlight the significance of stroke paper in various industries, especially in packaging and the production of disposable products.

Stroke paper is divided into several categories based on the body material, each with its own unique features and applications. Below are the main categories of stroke paper based on the body material:

Stroke Paper with Polyethylene (PE) Coating
Single-sided PE Coating: This type of stroke paper has a thin layer of polyethylene on one side. It is typically used for producing cold disposable cups and some packaging. This type of stroke paper is suitable for products that don’t require high heat resistance.
Double-sided PE Coating: This type of stroke paper is coated with polyethylene on both sides. The double-sided coating provides greater resistance to liquid leakage and heat, making it ideal for producing cups for hot beverages such as coffee and tea.

Stroke Paper with Polylactic Acid (PLA) Coating
Stroke Paper with PLA Coating: PLA is a biodegradable polymer used as a substitute for polyethylene in stroke paper. Stroke paper with PLA coating is used for producing cups and disposable containers that are environmentally friendly and compostable. This type of paper is an excellent choice for brands emphasizing sustainability.

Uncoated Stroke Paper
Natural Coated Stroke Paper (e.g., Bagasse): In some cases, stroke paper can be made from natural materials such as bagasse or other renewable resources, which do not require a polymer coating or use biodegradable, non-polymeric coatings. This type of paper is primarily used in the production of completely biodegradable and sustainable products.

Stroke Paper with Acrylic or Silicone Coating
Acrylic or Silicone Coating: Some stroke papers are coated with acrylic or silicone instead of polyethylene or PLA. These coatings provide increased resistance to heat and grease. This type of paper is used in special food packaging that requires more resistance to grease and heat.

Stroke Paper with Aluminum Coating
Aluminum Coating: In cases where it is necessary to completely prevent the penetration of air and moisture, stroke paper can be coated with a layer of aluminum. This type of paper is commonly used in packaging for moisture- and air-sensitive food products.

Each of these categories is designed for specific applications, and the right choice among them depends on the specific needs of production and consumption.

Stroke paper can be divided into two main types based on the appearance and texture of the surface: matte stroke and glossy stroke. Each of these types has its own features and specific applications. Below are the differences and applications of these two types of stroke paper:

1. Matte Stroke (Matte Coated)

   Features:

   • Non-glossy surface: Matte stroke has a smooth surface with no gloss, which reflects light more evenly. This feature reduces brightness and creates a softer, subtler effect for printed designs.
   • Soft touch: The texture of matte paper is usually softer and gentler, providing a different feel compared to glossy paper.
   • Stain resistance: Matte paper typically resists fingerprints and stains more effectively, making it preferred when cleanliness and long-lasting appearance are important.

   Applications:

   • High-quality prints: Matte stroke is ideal for prints that require a softer and more natural effect. This type of paper is used for luxury packaging, paper cups for specialty drinks, and promotional products that need a dignified appearance.
   • Food packaging: Matte stroke paper is used for packaging that emphasizes a natural and attractive appearance, such as organic food packaging and products from sustainable brands.

2. Glossy Stroke (Glossy Coated)

Features:

• Glossy surface: Glossy stroke has a shiny and reflective surface that bounces light well. This feature makes printed designs appear with more vibrant colors and higher contrast.
• Vivid color display: Due to the glossiness and light reflection, colors on glossy paper appear extremely vivid and bright, which is ideal for printing high-resolution images and graphics.
• Sensitivity to fingerprints: The glossy surface of the paper may be more prone to stains and fingerprints, requiring more care and maintenance.

Applications:

• Advertising prints and branding: Glossy stroke is used for promotional paper cups, posters, brochures, and other printed products that need to attract attention and highlight graphic designs.
• Luxury packaging: This type of paper is used for packaging that requires a shiny and attractive appearance, such as gift boxes and packaging for luxury and premium products.

Differences and Choice Between Matte and Glossy Stroke:

• Appearance: If you are looking for a shiny and prominent appearance, glossy stroke is more suitable. If you prefer a softer and more natural look, matte stroke is the better choice.
• Application: Glossy stroke is mostly used for advertising purposes and products that need to attract attention, while matte stroke is more suitable for products that require a softer touch and a distinctive appearance.
• Resistance to Stains: Matte paper is less sensitive to stains and fingerprints, making it perform better for products that require long-lasting appearance.

Each of these papers can be chosen based on the needs and final goal of the product.