Kemira is dedicated to pioneering renewable alternatives to conventional plastic-based coatings and films prevalent in today&#;s paper and board packaging. Through our partnership with Danimer Scientific, we&#;ve harnessed the potential of renewable PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) in aqueous dispersion barrier coatings for paper and board packaging. Here are the 5 key benefits that make PHA coatings an ideal option for the packaging value chain seeking more sustainable solutions.
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One of the greatest benefits of PHA is its ability to biodegrade in any environment without leaving a harmful footprint. Unlike many conventional fossil-based plastics &#; or even novel bioplastics &#; commonly used in paper and board packaging to create needed barrier properties, PHA is certified to be, e.g., marine biodegradable and home compostable. Its biodegradability profile is comparable to that of cellulose, starch, and other natural polymers, making it an ideal choice for enhancing the functionality of renewable fiber-based packaging materials.
Promoting a circular economy is essential for sustainable packaging practices. Paper and board are inherently recyclable packaging materials, and thus the primary end-of-life option for them should be recycling, as it enables the recovery and reuse of the fiber raw material. PHA-coated paper and board can be integrated into existing recycling streams, facilitating the efficient recycling of coated packaging materials. In the repulping process, where paper is broken down into a pulp slurry for recycled paper production, PHA coating does not hinder separation of the paper fibers, resulting in high fiber yield and efficient recovery, maximizing the lifecycle of fiber-based packaging materials.
PHA is derived from renewable resources such as vegetable oils, using advanced biotechnology. Being fully biobased, it provides a more sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based coatings like PE (polyethylene). PHA is also approved for use in food contact applications, making it a suitable alternative to harmful compounds such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in barrier applications.
In food packaging, protecting products from external elements is crucial for maintaining freshness and extending shelf life. Especially with greasy products and liquids, it&#;s equally important to prevent deterioration from inside the packaging. PHA coatings exhibit excellent barrier properties against oil and grease, water and moisture. During development, different PHA formulations have been extensively tested, to optimize the performance and ensure applicability to different types of substrates.
Versatility is key in packaging applications. PHA can be applied to various substrates, including paper and board as well as flexible films, facilitating a variety of packaging formats. Additionally, PHA coatings provide good converting properties, such as cold welding and heat sealability, ensuring performance in different packaging applications such as cupstock or flexible packaging.
November 27, | KYMC Marketing
Global Packaging Industry's Green Transformation
As global environmental awareness rises and plastic reduction policies advance worldwide, the packaging industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional plastic packaging is gradually being replaced by eco-friendly alternatives, with water-based barrier coating combined with paper packaging emerging as one of the most promising sustainable solutions. According to Allied Market Research, the water-based coating market was valued at $68.7 billion in and is estimated to reach $110.9 billion by , growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from to .
Growth of Water-based Coatings on Paper for Packaging
Going back to the fundamentals: The purpose of barrier coatings and packaging is to protect the goods inside, preventing unwanted substances from leaking out or getting in. Substances such as oil, grease, water, and moisture are common substances to block. Furthermore, it would be a big plus if the barrier coating and packaging could offer attributes such as heat sealing ability, abrasion resistance, heat resistance, and over-printability. Without delivering the above functionalities, we can talk all day about sustainability, recyclability, or reducing carbon footprints, but ultimately, the solution will never go mainstream.
Water-based coatings on paper are becoming increasingly popular, driven by regulatory requirements. In addition to reducing environmental impact, advancements in water-based coatings now provide mechanical strength and shelf life that are acceptable to both consumers and packaging providers. Furthermore, the widespread adoption of such water-based coatings on paper facilitates recycling, promotes environmental friendliness, and contributes to a smaller carbon footprint.
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The Key to a Successful Water-based Coating on Paper Operation
There are 4 factors for a successful water-based coating on paper operation:
1. The flexibility to switch between different coating methods due to the continuous introduction of diverse water-based coatings in the market.
2. The ability to provide a precise and uniform coating layer.
3. The ability to integrate multiple coating layers.
4. The capability to provide an optimal drying method for the different coating solutions.
If we dive deeper, drying involves creating a customized drying temperature curve through stable output control at each drying stage while maintaining high energy efficiency.
Introducing the Hybrid-X from KYMC. Hybrid-X is a multi-layer coating system specifically optimized for water-based barrier coating applications.
Hybrid-X offers unique advantages in water-based coating applications with its ability to precisely control coating parameters, ensuring uniform coating thickness with consistent coating quality. Hybrid-X allows you to conduct quick coating material changeovers and is flexible in parameter adjustment. The machine could also equip real-time coating inspection and intelligent process control, providing complete quality tracking. On top of the advanced water-based coating technology, you will also receive professional technical support from the KYMC team.
Take action now for a more sustainable business
At this pivotal moment in the packaging industry's journey toward sustainability, Hybrid-X offers the most comprehensive water-based coating solutions. Through innovative technology and flexible customization services, KYMC helps clients achieve their plastic reduction goals and contribute to a greener future for the packaging industry.
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Contact KYMC's professional team to explore how Hybrid-X can help realize your sustainable packaging vision.
For more water based barrier coatingsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.