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Tyvek® – a durable, lightweight and versatile material for top-class printing
DuPont™ Tyvek® is a highly valued printing material due to its light weight, smooth surface and impressive dimensional stability. The material perfectly combines the strength of plastic, the flexibility of textile and the feel of paper – making it ideal for printed materials that require durability, tear resistance and high print quality.
Tyvek® consists of continuous fibers of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that are pressed together using heat and pressure. The result is a unique base material that is neither paper, fabric or plastic film, but benefits from the advantages of all three.
Tyvek® Printing Guide
Tyvek® works well with most classic printing techniques, including offset, flexo, gravure and screen printing. These methods provide high resolution and good color retention thanks to the smooth surface of the Tyvek® material.
Digital printing is increasingly used for Tyvek®, especially for personalized printing, short runs and fast deliveries.
Some Tyvek® grades are certified for HP Indigo. Current certification information is available via the HP PrintOS Media Locator (search DuPont).
NOTE: Water-based, solvent and eco-solvent inkjets do not normally work directly on Tyvek® without pre-treatment. With pre-coated Tyvek® for water-based or light solvent inkjet, direct printing is possible.
What technologies are suitable for processing Tyvek®?
DuPont™ Tyvek® is a non‑woven material made from 100% high‑density polyethylene. It combines properties of paper, fabric, and film, enabling wide use in printing, packaging, design, and consumer goods. Its water resistance, non‑absorbency, and 135 °C melting point require adjusted processing compared to paper.
Coatings are used to enhance tactility (e.g., PU), improve printability or convertibility (e.g., primers for water‑based or eco‑solvent inkjet, heat‑sealing coatings), or boost ink performance (e.g., Latex or Indigo primers).
Tyvek® can be laminated with materials such as paper, film, and woven or non‑woven fabrics. Adhesive choice depends on the specific substrate.
Though paper‑like, Tyvek® behaves more like plastic during gluing. Wrong glue or methods can cause bubbles or wrinkles. Suitable options include water‑based, solvent‑based, hot‑melt, and animal glues. Always consider substrate characteristics, end‑use conditions, and consult glue suppliers before production.
Because Tyvek® is non‑woven, needle holes remain visible. Use smaller needles (e.g., No. 10) and avoid dense stitching. Its smooth surface can slip during sewing, so a plastic presser foot is recommended for better grip.
Tyvek® sustainability
Tyvek® is tough, tear‑resistant, and widely used in envelopes, packaging, cargo covers, and protective apparel.
It is also easily recycled. Where programs exist, used Tyvek® can be diverted from waste and turned into products like pallets, benches, and playground equipment—often reducing disposal costs for businesses.
Although recycling is encouraged, Tyvek® is inert in landfills and will not leach harmful substances. It can also be safely incinerated, producing only water and carbon dioxide, and provides high energy value comparable to oil.
Through its durability and recyclability, Tyvek® supports long‑term sustainability.
Tyvek® recycling program
Made from HDPE, Tyvek® is easy to recycle and can be given a second life through established recycling programs. The following types of material are accepted:
Non‑printed Tyvek®
Printed Tyvek®
Note: Tyvek® that has been contaminated with infectious substances, biological materials, cultures, patient specimens, or regulated medical waste cannot be accepted for recycling.
Once received, qualified Tyvek® products are converted by our partners into HDPE pellets, which can then be reused as raw material for new products.