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Ahlstrom-Munksjo releases compostable oxygen barrier mono-material

Ahlstrom-Munksjo has launched PureBarrier, a mono-material oxygen barrier technology that is made of 100 percent cellulose fibres and is compostable. This launch is aligned with the company’s “from Plastic to Purpose” campaign.

The PureBarrier technology is based on the Genuine Vegetable Parchment (GVP). It has oxygen and gas barrier properties, as well as natural wet strength. The material is grease resistant and does not contain loose fibre or added chemicals. Using a biopolymer, it can be made heat sealable. The material is biodegradable and compostable.

“Our ‘from Plastic to Purpose’ campaign continues to raise awareness on the possibilities of fibre-based solutions as a renewable option,” said Robyn Buss, executive vice-president of Ahlstrom-Munksjo’s food packaging and technical solutions. “By educating the marketplace on paper-based packaging options available we are encouraging global industry stakeholders to consider fibre and paper-based alternatives where plastic and non-renewable materials are used today.”

“Oxygen barrier properties present a significant technological challenge for fibrous material as it is a porous structure by nature,” said Dr. Noel Cartier, vice-president of research and development (R&D) for advanced solutions and parchment businesses. “Our parchment R&D team pushed the limits of fibre-based materials through several years of research to develop and patent this unique oxygen barrier mono-material.”

The company uses responsibly sourced and renewable wood pulp to produce PureBarrier. It is certified according to Forest Stewardship Council standards and is biodegradable and certified compostable with OK COMPOST/ OK COMPOST HOME from TUV.

“Harnessing Ahlstrom-Munksjo’s expertise in natural fibres parchmentization, we created a new generation of materials that rises to the challenges of the flexible packaging industry,” explained Brian Oost, vice-president of Ahlstrom-Munksjo’s parchment business. “PureBarrier is a brand new technology platform, bringing a host of possibilities to pack everyday products in a more sustainable manner.”

PureBarrier is already being used commercially in coffee capsule lids and brewing materials for espresso systems. It is currently being evaluated for nonfood applications.