FiberReForm

A large proportion of disposable packaging is used for food packaging, such as takeaway containers. Moulded fibre shows great potential, but the current production process poses several challenges. The pulp often needs to be pre-treated before moulding, a process that is time-consuming, energy-intensive and costly. The packaging also needs to be resistant to moisture and grease from the food. Currently, this is often achieved using plastic films or PFAS-based chemicals.

The FiberReForm project is therefore developing a new type of pulp for moulded products that can be used directly in production, eliminating the need for costly and energy-intensive pre-treatment. At the same time, environmentally friendly, plastic-free barriers are being developed to replace PFAS-based chemicals and plastic films used in takeaway trays, for example.

By combining these two development tracks, the consortium aims to create environmentally friendly, recyclable and competitive products, while also opening up new market opportunities for sustainable packaging solutions. The work covers the entire value chain, from optimising raw materials and adapting processes to manufacturing, testing and analysing prototypes. Barrier solutions will be evaluated as both additives in the pulp and surface coatings, focusing on functionality and food safety. In parallel, techno-economic and life cycle analyses will be conducted to inform market assessments and decisions regarding further scaling up and implementation.

Project partners and roles

RISE is coordinating the project and is responsible for project management, communication, and disseminating the results. RISE is also leading the evaluation of the project's technical, economic and environmental conditions, as well as the development of a sustainable and scalable business model.

The project is being carried out in close collaboration with several partners:

• SCA: A leading forest industry company that contributes industry expertise and produces tailor-made fibre pulp adapted to the project's needs.
• BIM Kemi, a chemical company specialising in the pulp and paper industry, is responsible for developing barrier chemistry and PFAS-free barrier solutions.
• Jord Innovation, an innovation company focused on bringing innovations to market, is responsible for prototype manufacturing and production validation.
• Mid Sweden University is participating as a research partner, focusing on material characterisation and process development.

Together, the project partners combine industrial experience, research expertise, and innovative strength to develop the next generation of fibre-based packaging solutions.