Fiberdom partners Kiefel to advance dry-formed fiber packaging solutions

FINLAND – Fiberdom, a specialist in wood fiber innovations, has joined forces with Kiefel, a provider of packaging machinery, to integrate Duranova material into dry fibre-forming processes. 

This collaboration aims to develop recyclable and home-compostable packaging options for manufacturers navigating stricter waste regulations, such as the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.

Duranova originates from FSC-certified pulp and paperboard, transformed through Fiberdom’s patented method into a robust, plastic-free substance suitable for molding. 

Previously applied in single-use cutlery supplied to Finnish retailers and wholesalers, the material now enters broader applications. 

The initial emphasis falls on dry-formed items like compostable lids for beverage cups and margarine tubs, expanding market reach beyond current limits.

Kiefel’s dry forming equipment, paired with Duranova, delivers enhanced formability and resistance to bending compared to conventional wet methods, which often require more water to avoid surface defects in intricate designs. 

This approach cuts water consumption, lowers energy needs and trims production expenses by using roll-fed inputs. 

Kiefel has submitted patents for related process and tooling methods to broaden compatible raw materials and optimize resource use.

Tomi Järvenpää, general manager at Fiberdom, described the alliance as confirmation of the material’s viability.

He noted that it enables scaling with key collaborators to address packaging waste issues.

Many existing compostable products rely on industrial facilities or include additives that hinder recycling, Järvenpää added, but Duranova supports both home composting and full recyclability.

Sven Engelmann, Kiefel’s vice president of technology, stated the partnership extends their machinery lineup with capabilities that promote recyclability and cost savings in targeted formats. 

He explained that it preserves access to all forming options to meet diverse needs without performance trade-offs.

In a related move last week, Yangi raised US$11 million in funding, led by Industrifonden alongside industrial partners and Almi Invest GreenTech. 

The investment supports scaling of its Cellera dry forming system, which merges airlaid fibers with thermoforming for rigid cellulose packaging as a plastic substitute. 

Validated for industrial use, Cellera entered Asia last year, and Yangi has sold its first machine to a European converter. 

Anna Haupt, investment director at Industrifonden, highlighted the technology’s efficient fiber handling and potential to match plastic costs per unit.

The fiber-based packaging sector continues to expand amid regulatory pressures and consumer shifts. 

A recent analysis projects the market to rise from US$407 billion in 2025 to US$567 billion by 2034, at a 3.85% compound annual growth rate. 

At FachPack 2025 in Nuremberg this week, ProAmpac showcased fiber solutions including kerbside-recyclable trays and pouches for fresh produce and pet food, demonstrating ongoing adaptations in the field.

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