Smurfit Kappa launches “revolutionary” water resistant paper AquaStop

19 May 2022 --- Smurfit Kappa is launching a water-resistant paper that does not sacrifice recyclability. Branded AquaStop, the paper is part of the company’s TechniPaper portfolio, which consists of an array of high-performance papers designed to handle the most complex supply chains.

The AquaStop paper is water-resistant due to a special coating added to it during the manufacturing process. Unlike many other coatings, this does not compromise the product's recyclability and can be recycled in the same way as standard paper-based packaging.

AquaStop is the latest innovation in Smurfit Kappa’s Better Planet Packaging portfolio of products, which offer environmentally sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.

As it is designed to withstand exposure to water without being damaged, it is suitable for e-commerce packaging and packaging for products such as flowers, detergent and fruit and vegetables where temporary protection against water is needed, says the company.

The paper resists water without damaging recyclability, claims the company.It is also particularly suitable for use in humid conditions as the box remains intact while protecting the contents, making it an excellent solution for transporting and storing refrigerated products with exposure to condensation.

Starting AquaStop
Speaking about the new product, the vice president of product development at the Smurfit Kappa Paper Division, Lars Henriksson, says: “We are very excited about AquaStop and believe it is a truly revolutionary paper.”

“We’re expecting AquaStop to interest many of our customers, particularly those who transport goods in more demanding environments. The peace of mind it will give them that their products will remain in perfect condition even if exposed to water.”

“Our product development team, along with our colleagues in Spain, have created something very special that has superior functionality while remaining 100% recyclable.”

Smurfit on the rise
The launch of AquaStop joins a stream of innovations by the company in recent years as it attempts to help companies adjust to increasing environmental sustainability demands.

“We are continuously developing innovative and sustainable packaging solutions that are helping to meet our ever-growing customer needs, no matter how challenging or unusual the ask is,” says Saverio Mayer, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Europe.

“AquaStop is a must-have product for customers with complex supply chain requirements and is another example of how we have the brightest minds and most creative spirits working towards a common goal.”

AquaStop will be showcased at Smurfit Kappa’s customer innovation event later this month.

This year, the company also became the first vegan-certified packaging company after obtaining the Vegan Society trademark for corrugated solutions produced at its facility in the UK.

Smurfit Kappa’s products featuring the Vegan Trademark are produced using paper, glue, starch and inks sourced from eco-conscious suppliers and free from animal products. The company supplies a wide range of vegan-approved packaging options suitable for various products within fashion, cosmetics, food, drinks and more.

By Louis Gore-Langton

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