Plastic packaging solutions company RPC Zeller Plastik Zell (Zell / Germany; www.rpc-group.com) has developed a marble-effect finish for its classic “Supersoft” tube cap. The company said the new finish meets demands from the personal care sector for both a quality image and convenience.

Using special masterbatches, the marble effect is obtained by adding chosen colours to the cap base colour during injection moulding. As a result of their different melt flow index, the colours of the masterbatch melt with a time-delay and the marbles appear, creating individual patterns. “The caps with marble effect are all different and can be designed according to the colours of the printed tube – up to seven colours can be mixed in this way,” explained Julia Hartwig, the company’s sales manager for personal care.

RPC Zeller said packaging convenience and ease of application are becoming crucial factors for consumers, which has boosted the use of plastic tubes, as well as manufacturers’ desire for a premium look.