PVC-free materials

Kavalan materials granted protective patent

CMYUK is the exclusive distributor of Kavalan in the UK and Ireland
CMYUK is the exclusive distributor of Kavalan in the UK and Ireland

TAYA Canvas (Shanghai) has been granted a protective patent for its Kavalan PVC-free range of banner materials.

Kavalan is described in the patent as “a multilayered digital print material that can be used outdoors, composed on a non-PVC substrate with multiple coating layers giving it fire retardant, waterproof, and ink adhesion properties but also a unique adhesion promoting structural layer technology that enable the product to be successfully welded”.

Vincent Lin, VP of TAYA Canvas, said: “With Kavalan holding a strong patent-protected position in the market, competitors must find other ways to differentiate their products.

“This could lead to more innovative approaches to sustainable materials, benefiting the industry and the environment as a whole.

“Global brands are increasingly prioritising the environmental impact of their advertising materials. With the patent and certification of Kavalan these brands can confidently specify Kavalan knowing that it meets stringent environmental and performance standards.

“This underscores TAYA’s role in driving commercial solutions that align with market demands and environmental sensitivity.”

CMYUK is the exclusive distributor of Kavalan in the UK and Ireland.

The company said the material – which has the look, feel, and tensile strength of PVC – is suitable for both internal and external use, including sensitive settings such as healthcare and education, and is being used for applications ranging from banners to building wraps.

Robin East, group chief commercial officer at CMYUK Group, said: “The patent differentiates Kavalan from other materials by highlighting its unique features. It also reinforces Kavalan’s credibility and reliability, attracting environmentally conscious brands looking for certified green solutions.”

Kavalan features a composite layer structure providing fireproofing, waterproofing, and ink absorption capabilities, ensuring high performance while being environmentally friendly. A base layer, made of high-density polyester fibres, gives it strong tensile strength.

Lighter than traditional PVC, CMYUK said Kavalan can be seamlessly spliced and jointed using high frequency, hot air, and hot wedge welding technologies, enabling unlimited width expansion beyond 5m.

Kavalan does not produce toxic emissions when incinerated and is suited for waste-to-energy conversion processes. If it enters landfill, the material is degradable without leaching harmful substances into the land and water ecosystems.

TAYA has dedicated extensive R&D efforts to create the Kavalan product line over the past 13 years and is now also focused on eliminating the cost premium typically associated with greener materials.