Overseas Research Underway into Algae as an Alternative to Wood Fiber for Packaging Materials

Published:2021-09-03 · Industry News

Recently, international packaging group DS Smith launched a research project on sustainable papermaking raw materials, aiming to explore the possibility of using algae fibers as raw materials for paper and packaging products, in order to meet the growing customer and consumer demand for sustainable products.

The research is expected to make the company an industry pioneer in using algae as an alternative to wood fiber as a packaging raw material. After preliminary trials, the company is also studying the potential of algae as a plastic substitute, such as for barrier coatings to replace petroleum-based packaging for food protection.

Currently, DS Smith is in talks with several biotechnology companies to study the use of algae fibers in a range of packaging products, including box containers, paper packaging and cardboard trays.

DS Smith said that seaweed is one of the many alternative natural materials the company is closely watching, and given its wide range of uses, the application of seaweed in manufacturing will be an "emerging market."

Relevant market research shows that the market for algae used in industrial applications is growing rapidly. It is estimated that by 2030, the value of the algae sector in Europe will exceed 9 billion euros and may create about 115,000 jobs.

The algae fiber project is part of the 116 million euro circular economy R&D program announced by DS Smith this year. The program also applies to natural fibers made from other innovative natural raw materials, such as straw, hemp, miscanthus, cotton, and more unusual sources such as chrysanthemum grass, agricultural waste, cocoa husks and bagasse.

——This article is reprinted from China Packaging Network (pack.cn). Original link: http://news.pack.cn/show-378180.html

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