Molded fiber pulp products emerge as a green alternative to plastics in packaging industry
A shift towards sustainable packaging solutions
image: A recent mini-review published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts by researchers at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology and the University of New Brunswick, presents molded fiber and pulp products as promising candidates for replacing traditional petroleum-based plastics.
Credit: College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Papermaking Technology and Specialty Paper Development, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
In response to the escalating environmental concerns over plastic waste, the packaging industry is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainable alternatives. A recent mini-review published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts by researchers at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology and the University of New Brunswick, presents molded fiber and pulp products as promising candidates for replacing traditional petroleum-based plastics.
The study provides an in-depth overview of the current landscape of molded pulp products, which are created from renewable and biodegradable lignocellulosic fibers. These plant-based materials are not only sustainable but also recyclable and biodegradable, addressing the critical need for green packaging solutions.
The authors discuss the various sources of cellulose fibers, including wood, recycled paper, and agricultural waste, which are then processed through mechanical or chemical pulping methods. The review also covers the general manufacturing process of molded fiber products, which involves pulp preparation, molding, and drying stages, resulting in three-dimensional fiber products suitable for diverse packaging applications.
One of the key findings of the study is the environmental sustainability of molded pulp products. The life cycle assessment (LCA) of these products reveals that the highest environmental impact occurs during the pulp preparation and product production stages. However, the use of recycled fibers and innovative manufacturing processes can significantly reduce this impact.
The review also highlights recent innovations in the field, such as the development of high-density molded cellulose fibers and transparent biocomposites, which are increasingly being used in the cosmetic and food packaging industries. Companies like Huhtamaki, Waitrose, L’Oréal, and Carlsberg are leading the way by incorporating molded fiber products into their packaging solutions, aiming to reduce waste and carbon emissions.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the growing demand for clean, renewable, and biodegradable packaging products as a response to the global movement against plastic pollution. Molded fiber and pulp products are emerging as viable alternatives, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for the packaging industry.
See the article:
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2021.10.003
Original Source URL
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2369969821000803
Journal