Smurfit Westrock unveils water-activated adhesive for paper packaging
Key takeaways
- Smurfit Westrock has introduced ActiBlu, a water-activated adhesive that eliminates the need for traditional gluelines in paper-based packaging.
- The solution can reduce adhesive use by up to 60%, helping brands meet evolving regulatory requirements.
- The innovation aims to enhance sustainability and operational efficiency.
Smurfit Westrock has introduced ActiBlu, an adhesive that can be applied during the production of the packaging. The solution aims to reduce the need for traditional gluelines in paper-based packaging, enhancing simplicity, efficiency, and recyclability.
ActiBlu is said to eliminate the need for glue application when the box is closed. According to Smurfit Westrock, it can be activated by a fine mist of water and seals immediately.
Currently, ActiBlu is in the pilot phase. Smurfit Westrock is working with partners to test and fine-tune the solution in operational environments, improving the solution based on customer feedback.
Arco Berkenbosch, chief innovation officer at Smurfit Westrock, says: “ActiBlu simplifies the packing process for our customers. The transition to the solution requires a modification from glue application to spraying a fine mist of water on packing lines, reducing operational complexity while maintaining performance.”
Adhesive reduction
ActiBlu uses up to 60% less adhesive than traditional hot-melt gluing, assisting brands to meet evolving regulatory requirements, including the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, through enhanced recyclability.
ActiBlu was unveiled at Smurfit Westrock’s 2026 Innovation Event in the Netherlands. The event also saw the introduction of three AI-based tools, engineered to improve packaging performance on the shelf and across the supply chain, built on insights from real-world market data points.
“This is about building a future that balances innovation with responsibility: powered by people, guided by nature, and enhanced by AI. By bringing human creativity, nature’s intelligence, and advanced technology together, we’re creating solutions that are not only smarter, but more sustainable and meaningful for a changing world,” says Berkenbosch.
Meanwhile, the company is expanding its international presence. Earlier this year, Smurfit Westrock acquired Cartomanabí, one of the main corrugated packaging companies in Ecuador, to meet the growth opportunities in Latin America.
Recently, the company opened the “world’s first” packaging facility focused on developing clinical solutions in Ireland, complementing its facilities in China and the US.
