At this year’s drupa, Polytype Converting (Matthews International) is showcasing its latest developments in barrier coatings on paper, highlighting over 50 proven coating processes. These advancements, demonstrated at the touchpoint packaging event, aim to address the future of packaging by providing sustainable and efficient solutions for the industry.
Esa-Matti Aalto, Senior Vice President/General Manager of Coating & Converting Industries at Matthews Engineering, emphasized the importance of sustainability and innovation in packaging. “The central question is how packaging materials and production processes can be made more sustainable,” he said. “We are specifically targeting this in our developments.”
The increasing popularity of paper as a packaging material stems from the need for alternatives to multi-layer and single-use plastics, which are difficult to recycle. Recent regulations, such as the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) new thresholds for fluorochemicals (PFAS) in food contact materials, further drive the shift towards paper-based solutions. Functional barrier coatings on paper offer a viable alternative, providing excellent grease and moisture resistance without using PFAS.
Polytype Converting’s R2R process allows for precise functional barrier coatings on paper substrates, tailored to customer requirements. These coatings offer multiple benefits, including renewable raw materials, recyclability, and high-quality appearance. They also ensure food safety by providing effective barriers against external influences like moisture and oxygen, enhancing the shelf life of packaged goods.
Markus Schlütter, Senior Sales Manager Coating & Converting/Industrial Applications at Matthews Engineering, explained the company’s approach to developing customized solutions. “In targeted coating tests, we develop individual and tailor-made products with partners and customers,” he said. “The test runs are carried out under realistic process conditions, ensuring transferability to subsequent production processes.”
Polytype Converting offers a range of coating technologies, including the Pressurized Gravure System (PGS®) and pre-dosed nozzle systems like slot die and slide curtain coating. These technologies enable single-sided or double-sided coatings with varying thicknesses, providing flexibility and precision.
The company’s comprehensive testing facilities in Bocholt, Germany, and Fribourg, Switzerland, support these developments. These centers offer extensive testing capacities, allowing customers to rely on realistic simulations and precise design for efficient production.
Aalto concluded, “We are experiencing enormous interest and increasing demand for innovative coating solutions. We provide comprehensive support to our customers in positioning themselves for the future in this area.”
Polytype Converting’s innovative solutions will be on display at drupa 2024, Hall 8b/A12, Messe Düsseldorf, Germany, from May 28 to June 7.