Synthetic papers are especially suitable in niche markets where moisture or other contaminants would damage wood-based papers. While total paper production is about 45 million short tons, the synthetic paper market is small, but growing at a faster rate. RP-172 Synthetic Paper Industry, the current market for synthetic paper is estimated at 110 million pounds. Within the application market for synthetic paper, labels will continue to dominate over the next five years.
Labels comprise pressure sensitive, in-mold labels and unsupported labels that are also called tags.
This is because unaffected by most contaminants and environmental conditions, is eminently readable, and is available in a variety of print colors. Price will always be a deterrent, but in many applications synthetic paper is a very cost-effective product. Commercial printing includes a wide array of products led by cards. Other applications are posters, signage, books, tickets, menus, maps, etc. Synthetic paper will continue to be a specialty niche market, and, although it will not significantly penetrate its key markets, will provide reasonable dollar volumes for most of the major players to remain in the business.