International Paper develops new paperboard coating
International Paper has announced that it is working with a materials research and development firm to explore the development of products using EarthCoating, a mineralised barrier coating for paperboard products
The US-based paper and packaging firm said that it completed a license agreement with Smart Planet Technologies to use this new technology to reduce plastic used in coated paperboard products.
The company’s coated paperboard division plans to create a line of folding carton and cupstock products within their Everest and Fortress grade lines that, it claims, would improve yield and reduce plastic use while offering the same barrier properties currently available.
Trial work and pilot testing are scheduled for the first quarter of 2013.
In a statement, International Paper said: “The EarthCoating mineralised resins are innovative, high performance coatings, which contain less plastic than traditional low-density polyethylene coatings. EarthCoating resins are heat-sealable and FDA-compliant for direct food contact.”
“International Paper has a long history of providing innovative fibre-based packaging that is essential to everyday life”, said, Greg Gibson, vice president, International Paper Coated Paperboard.
He added: “As a leading supplier to the consumer packaging and food service markets, we know that paperboard converters and consumer product companies are focused on reducing the amount of packaging material they use while maintaining the required protective barriers and print performance.
“Our development initiative with Smart Planet Technologies and EarthCoating represents our efforts to create innovative and sustainable products that meet those needs.”
