By passing the Cepi test, adapa's latest paper based flowpack packaging PaperFlow(re) P-type has proven its efficient recyclability in standard paper mills. Its machinability enables manufacturers of confectionery, snacks and powders to switch to a certified recyclable, paper-based solution and thus fulfil the increasing consumer demand for paper packaging.
Although functional packaging papers are available, their processability on existing flow-wrapping machines is often limited. To solve this problem, adapa has developed a high-performance laminate made of paper and an 8 µm thin BOPP layer that significantly improves the runability of flowpacks on packaging machines. It is heat sealable and can be processed on HFFS and VFFS machines without typical efficiency killers such as torn materials or slow speeds.
The PaperFlow(re) P-type family currently consists of laminates with 70, 80 or 90g/m² paper and 8 µm BOPP. It is available with and without barrier metallisation and is suitable for a wide range of products, including snacks, crisps, chocolate, biscuits, ice lollies and refill packs for instant coffee. Even the thinnest variant already contains 87% paper, which enables savings on disposal fees (EPR fees) in most EU countries.
The new paper based flowpack is aimed primarily at manufacturers of confectionery and snacks and offers an innovative alternative to classic OPP/OPP applications. The biggest advantage over most paper-plastic laminates on the market is the Cepi certification, which confirms the recyclability of the packaging in standard paper mills. It can also be easily processed on conventional flowpack machines without the need for investment or retrofitting of existing machines. “The advantage over packaging papers with functional coatings lies in the improved machinability, with our laminate also passing the stringent Cepi test. This ensures that the laminate is not a disruptive factor in paper recycling,“ explains Richard Bell, Head of R&D Confectionery, Household & Personal Care, Tea & Coffee at the adapa Group.
The latest test method from the Confederation of European Paper Industries (Cepi) checks the recyclability of a laminate by dissolving the packaging in water and forming sheets of paper from it, which are then evaluated taking into account the recovered fibres and possible impurities. This method is so forward looking that the adapa Group is convinced that it will form the basis for future delegated acts on EU-wide paper recycling. The adapa Group is already focussing its R&D processes on this today: The PaperFlow(re) P-type is one of several paper based products from adapa that have passed the Cepi test. This positions adapa as a full-service provider of paper based solutions for the future confectionery, snack and powder markets.
