PulPac to unleashes fibre-based caps at Interpack 2026, taking aim at billions of plastic closures

GERMANY – PulPac has unveiled a new generation of fibre-based caps using its dry-molded fibre technology, targeting one of the most ubiquitous plastic parts in everyday packaging with early prototypes already tested in real-world bottle applications and set for public debut at interpack 2026.

The caps will be revealed for the first time at the trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany, from 7–13 May 2026.

Developed with PA Consulting and industry stakeholders including Optima, PulPac’s designated machine partner for this segment, the initiative builds on work within the Bottle Collective, where complete fibre-based bottle systems including closures are being evaluated with several global brand owners.

Why Plastic Caps Have Been So Hard to Replace

Early tests show promising performance in thread engagement, opening and closing, sealing architectures, and overall tactile experience, according to the company.

The design allows differentiation between the inside and outside of the cap, a critical feature for maintaining seal integrity while providing consumer-friendly ergonomics.

Charlotte Walldal, chief technology officer at PulPac, explained that the company focuses on creating value both in what can be realized today and what comes next in packaging, adding that advancing fibre-based caps is a natural step in that journey.

A Target Measured in Billions

The opportunity is enormous. Billions of plastic closures are produced annually for beverage bottles, cartons, and consumer goods, representing one of the largest single categories of plastic packaging components.

Traditional plastic caps often use different polymers than their containers, complicating recycling. A fibre-based cap compatible with fibre-based bottles would enable mono-material packaging systems that simplify end-of-life processing dramatically.

From Concept to Commercial Reality

The cap development follows PulPac’s recent launch of fibre-based snus cans in partnership with Future Materials Sweden and Yoik, demonstrating the technology’s versatility across rigid packaging applications.

Last year, SIG partnered with PulPac to develop paper-based closures for its aseptic cartons, validating industry appetite for fibre-based alternatives.

Early versions have already been produced and tested in real-life packaging and bottle applications, moving beyond concept validation toward commercial feasibility.

The interpack Moment

For brand owners and converters, PulPac’s fibre-based caps address a persistent pain point: the plastic cap on a paper bottle or carton.

By enabling closures made from the same material family as the container, the technology supports fully recyclable, mono-material packaging systems that meet tightening European regulations and consumer expectations.

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