Tetra Pak doubles down on fibre-based packaging

The group has partnered with synchrotron radiation laboratory Max IV to uncover insights into the nanostructure of fibre materials, with the first application to optimise the composition of materials for use in paper straws.

Tetra Pak and Max IV’s research will serve as a basis for the development of new food packaging based on paper that remains food safe, recyclable, more durable against liquids and humidity and meets increased sustainability demands.

Fundamental understanding​

Eva Gustavsson, vice president Materials & Package at Tetra Pak, said: “A fundamental understanding of the structure and properties of materials is crucial as we work towards developing the package of the future. ​

“The package of the future needs to be fully recyclable and have a low environmental impact. Using renewable materials and increasing the use of fibre-based material within packages will be vital. With this research, Tetra Pak is helping to uncover fresh insights into plant-based materials as a basis for future innovations.”​

Experiments are being conducted at Max IV’s new research station, ForMAX located at its laboratory in Lund, Sweden.

Additional analysis capabilities​

Tetra Pak technology specialist for Virtual Modelling Eskil Andreasson added: “Our first experiment, which starts with paper straws, provides additional analysis capabilities into how paper straw material responds to changes in the environment in real-time, as well as how the straw interacts with different types of liquids under stringent conditions. ​

“These new insights and knowledge will be applied to developing the paper straws of the future in our virtual modelling tools, helping us to improve their functionality.”​

Meanwhile, as manufacturers grapple with the need to make their packaging more sustainable, we explore the steps machinery providers are taking to make the change as seamless as possible.​​