BIOBOX

Development and production of a bio-based universal packaging for sustainable product protection through the use of innovative natural fiber barriers

Objective

BIOBOX aims to develop a recyclable mono-material packaging made of paper that is suitable for solid, pourable foods such as herbal salts. The packaging should consist entirely of renewable raw materials and be able to be disposed of in waste paper - without plastics, aluminum or chemical coatings.

• To this end, new types of natural fiber barriers are to be developed whose barrier effect is generated exclusively physically - through targeted fiber processing instead of polymer coating.
• In addition to the packaging sleeve, the lid, base and closures are also to be made from functional fiber materials and implemented as part of a holistic packaging concept.
• The aim is to ensure product functionality (e.g. aroma and fat barrier, food contact, stability) through suitable paper combinations and manufacturing processes.
• Together with industrial partners, a transferable process concept for production on industrial systems is to be developed.
• The focus is on compatibility with existing production lines and high recyclability in order to meet the requirements of the circular economy.

With this approach, the project contributes to the substitution of fossil materials in packaging and to the implementation of the goals of the National Bioeconomy Strategy.

© R. Kleinert | TUD

Project results achieved:

At the end of the project, a validated prototype series of the BIOBOX - a completely paper-based mono-material packaging for the herbal salt segment - is available. All components - can, base and lid - are made from biogenic, recyclable materials. The barrier properties against fat, oxygen and aromas are achieved by specially developed natural fiber papers that have been modified purely physically - without any plastics, aluminum or coatings.

The underlying process concepts have been successfully tested on an industrial scale and enable efficient production of the packaging in standard market quantities.

Application partners are currently being sought for market entry, particularly in the food, delicatessen and sustainable consumer goods sectors. At the same time, work is underway to further develop the barrier properties in order to further improve performance against moisture. The BIOBOX thus offers a scalable solution for genuine closed-loop packaging that meets ecological requirements - without compromising on product protection and functionality.

© R. Kleinert | TUD

Partner

• OecoPac Grunert Verpackungen GmbH
• Südwestdeutsche Salzwerke AG

links

• Final report

Funding reference

© BMBF