From time to time, I hear this question from our customers: "I applied the label, then removed it, but the VOID message didn't appear or was very faint. Is the label defective?"
My answer is almost always this: "The label is fine; the problem is most likely due to rushing or a dirty surface."
Security labels are not like ordinary stickers. They work with a high-tech chemical reaction. The label's adhesion to the surface must be stronger than its internal bonding strength so that it breaks apart when removed. Here are the label application instructions and golden rules that will perfect this reaction and ensure you get 100% performance from your products.
Rule 1: The Surface Must Be "Truly" Clean
Dust, moisture, oil, and especially silicone... These are the biggest enemies of adhesive. Your product's box may look clean to you, but microscopic dust or mold release oils from the production line might be on the surface.
The first answer to the question of how to apply a VOID label is: To a clean surface.
- What to do? Wipe the area where you will apply the label with isopropyl alcohol or a dry, lint-free cloth.
- Caution: Especially on plastic surfaces or glossy cardboard, ensure the surface is grease-free. Never apply to a wet surface.
Rule 2: Finger Pressure (Press) is Essential
The adhesive technology used in security labels is called "Pressure Sensitive Adhesive" (PSA). This means the adhesive needs pressure to activate.
After placing the label on the surface, firmly press over it with your finger or a roller. Apply pressure, especially to the edges, to ensure 100% contact between the label and the surface. A label that is not fully adhered cannot perform its security function.
Rule 3: Patience (Curing Time)
This is the most critical point. Customers generally try to remove the label as soon as they apply it, asking, "Let's see if it works?" This is wrong.
The adhesive needs time to bond to the surface at a molecular level. We call this "Curing Time." Although quality VOID labels react quickly, you need to wait to get the best results.
Time vs. Performance Table
According to the results from our test laboratory, the effect of waiting time on performance is as follows:
| Time Elapsed After Application | Security Performance | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 0 - 1 Minute | 20% - 40% | May leave a faint trace or the entire label may peel off. |
| 15 - 30 Minutes | 70% - 80% | Acceptable level of VOID message appears. |
| 24 Hours (Recommended) | 100% (Maximum) | The label integrates with the surface, leaving a perfect trace when removed. |
Rule 4: Ambient Temperature
If you try to apply labels in freezing cold (e.g., in a cold storage at -10°C), the adhesive will crystallize and not stick. We recommend applying at room temperature (between 18°C - 25°C), and then moving the product to a cold or hot environment. Once applied, our VOID labels are resistant to harsh conditions.
In Conclusion
Security lies in the details. Guarantee your investment in protecting your products with correct application techniques. If you think your surface (rough plastic, fabric, metal, etc.) will not hold a label, you can consult our technical team via our contact page to perform sample work and determine the most suitable adhesive.
