CombiCan, the newly developed package for moisture-crosslinking polyurethane hotmelt adhesives, was an instant success with the jury for the 25th German Packaging Award at the Interpack trade fair in Düsseldorf. Behind this can's unassuming exterior is a sophisticated high-tech packaging system that enhances applicational reliability for the customer, optimizes the filling process, and markedly reduces the quantity and volume of waste.

High-performance polyurethane hotmelts are put to use in automotive engineering, the wood-processing and furniture industries and numerous other sectors. The sensitive adhesive used to be packaged in a bag made of laminated aluminum foil with a cardboard outer for protection during transport. Removing this package was difficult and required great care. The new, one-part package consists of a spirally wrapped composite material, with a top and bottom made of tinplate. These component materials can be easily separated and disposed of. Less waste is generated (25 percent less by weight and 65 percent less by volume). The product's storage and applicational reliability have also been significantly improved.

As a result of this accolade, Henkel is now eligible to enter its award-winning package in the international Eurostar and Worldstar packaging competitions.