The international consortium "Pulp in Action" has presented the first functional paper-based packaging prototypes for the cosmetics industry. After around three years of development work, the partners presented, among other things, a waterproof shower gel tube made of paper, a 500-millilitre refill bag made of cellulose fibres that has survived several drop tests from a height of one metre, as well as sample cups and portion sachets with a paper content of up to 85 per cent. According to the project partners, the prototypes meet key requirements for stability, transportability and product protection and demonstrate that paper-based materials are a viable, recyclable, renewable and therefore environmentally friendly alternative to plastic packaging.

Bio-based coatings as a barrier

The aim of the project was to modify the porous properties of paper fibres so that they meet the protection requirements of high-quality cosmetic formulations. Such barrier properties against moisture, oils and fats, which until now have mainly been provided by plastics, could be achieved with the help of bio-based coatings. The results proved that paper-based solutions are not only sustainable, but can also be implemented on an industrial scale. "Our project demonstrates the potential of cellulose fibres, which can be developed from a porous material into a functionalised material and from a simple 2D film into 3D packaging," said Clémence Mazeron, R&D project manager at Gascogne Flexible.

Prototypes followed by brand integration

These innovations could soon fundamentally change the way shampoos, lotions and gels are packaged and refill packs for personal care products are designed. With these new developments, the consortium aims to accelerate the transition to recyclable, renewable packaging systems in the cosmetics industry and integrate the first solutions into their brand strategies. In addition to technical issues, consumer acceptance plays a major role, as paper-based packaging brings new requirements in terms of design, feel and use. "Capturing the imagination of consumers is the central challenge of ecological transformation today," said Géraldine Poivert, CEO and co-founder of the consulting firm (RE)SET, which is leading the initiative. The Pulp in Action consortium consists of more than 50 companies from the packaging, cosmetics, materials science and sustainability sectors, including Chanel, L'Occitane, L'Oréal and Shiseido. Three years ago, they set themselves the goal of developing functional and attractive packaging made from paper.

Source: Pulp in Action