Teknos is shaping a sustainable future by contributing to the making of a fully bio-based and recyclable bottle. Teknos has a key role in developing a revolutionary paper bottle together with major international brands and experts in material, design and technology such as Coca-Cola, Carlsberg, L’Oréal and Absolut.

A long-term innovation project run by Paboco, the paper bottle company, was presented in Copenhagen.

The packaging and food serving industry is going through a profound change. Consumers and the packaging industry are constantly looking for more sustainable, recyclable solutions and alternatives to replace or reduce traditional plastic packaging. Teknos, a Finnish family-owned coatings company, is answering to this need by developing barrier coatings for the food packaging industry.

As a part of a paper bottle community that unites a group of world’s leading brands and experts in material, design and technology, Teknos is contributing to the development of a first of its kind bio-based and recyclable paper bottle. The paper bottle technology is intended for both still and carbonated food liquids as well as cosmetics other liquids.

“We have a long history of developing functional coatings for various surfaces and materials. It is only natural to apply this know-how in other applications besides traditional painting. Paper and paperboard used in food packaging are traditionally coated by a thin film of plastic, but there is an option: water-based dispersions prevent water or grease penetrating the paper and are ideal for food content,” Teknos Group Commercial Manager Tuomas Aspiala said.

Today, the first-generation paper bottle is produced from a sustainable sourced paper material, combined with existing barrier technology. The next step is the transition to a fully circular bottle solution, including a bio-based barrier. In the long term, the paper bottle will become completely bio-based.

Paboco, the paper bottle company, is a joint venture between paper packaging material developer BillerudKorsnäs and bottle manufacturing specialist ALPLA. The aim is to provide consumers with a fully bio-based and recyclable paper bottle, that ultimately could change the industry and impact the environment for good. The development started in 2015 by innovation start-up ecoXpac in collaboration with Carlsberg Group and BillerudKorsnäs.

Innovations are at the center of Teknos’ operations. Best innovations are usually a result of cooperation with other innovative technology companies. In the paper bottle project, Teknos is working closely with Swedish surface treatment company Crescocito.

“We are continuously thriving to find new and innovative solutions for the everchanging needs of customers, partners and the environment. Partnerships and cooperation are crucial for new and innovative ideas. This is how we can come up with something truly unique and meaningful to make the world last longer,” said Aspiala.