This packaging is designed for recycling in fiber streams
A collaboration between two companies developed a novel biopolymer-coated paper packaging solution (photo) that is designed for food applications requiring grease and oxygen barriers. Traditionally, the challenge of combining extrusion coating with paper lies in the adhesion of the coating to the paper, especially with biobased or biodegradable extrusion coatings. The solution developed by UPM Specialty Papers and Eastman helps resolve this issue by integrating biobased and compostable Solus performance additives with BioPBSTM polymer to form a thin coating onto UPM’s compostable and recyclable barrier base papers. Thanks to the thinness of the coating layer, the solution is designed for recycling within existing fiber-recycling streams, empowering brands to adopt sustainable packaging. The new biopolymer-coated solution provides a new option for difficult-to-pack foods. This packaging material offers exceptional heat sealability while maintaining barrier protection when folded, making it suitable for flexible packaging. Furthermore, this technology is compatible with conventional LDPE (low density polyethylene) extrusion coating equipment, requiring no additional capital investment. — Eastman Chemical Co., Kingsport, Tenn.