en.Wedoany.com Reported - Packaging company Amcor has partnered with UK-based startup Kelpi to explore bio-based coating technologies aimed at enhancing the performance and sustainability of Amcor's AmFiber fiber-based packaging.
The collaboration focuses on next-generation coating systems, with the goal of improving packaging barrier properties while maintaining recyclability in the pulp recovery process. Amcor's R&D team is evaluating Kelpi's proprietary seaweed-derived coating technology, which is designed to provide moisture and gas barrier properties and is compatible with fiber recycling systems.
Kelpi describes its biopolymer platform as a low-carbon material derived from seaweed, which absorbs carbon during growth. According to Kelpi, its coating thickness is approximately 0.01 millimeters. The potential advantage of using such bio-based coatings lies in reducing reliance on fossil fuel-derived raw materials and increasing the use of renewable resources, thereby helping to lower the carbon footprint.
"This collaboration reflects how we are advancing our materials innovation pipeline, and it supports the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's call to accelerate innovation in paper-based flexible packaging," said Peter Ettridge, R&D Director of Amcor AmFiber. "We are excited about the potential of Kelpi's technology, which combines processability, gas and moisture barrier properties, and paper recyclability."
"Partnering with companies like Kelpi is a key part of introducing new technologies into our innovation ecosystem," said Frank Lehmann, Vice President of Corporate Venture Capital and Open Innovation at Amcor. "Its innovative approach to utilizing natural materials without compromising packaging performance holds great promise, and we are eager to explore opportunities to scale this technology across its global packaging portfolio."
The two companies aim to jointly assess whether the technology can be scaled into commercially viable applications within the consumer goods market, supporting broader circular economy packaging goals.
