Solenis teams up with HEIDELBERG to innovate eco-friendly barrier coatings for paper packaging

USA – Solenis, a global leader in specialty chemicals, has joined forces with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) to create a cost-effective solution for integrating barrier coatings into paper packaging through existing flexographic printing processes.

This new collaboration allows packaging producers to use HEIDELBERG’s flexographic machines to apply Solenis’ barrier coatings directly during printing.

This advancement opens up new possibilities for flat sheet paper and inline web-fed flexo applications, resulting in better product performance and increased production efficiency.

Solenis offers a range of specialized coatings for board material, flexible packaging, cupstock production, and anti-slip coatings for industrial and shipping containers.

Producers can use print-applying these coatings to eliminate the need for traditional polyethylene (PE) lamination and paraffin wax, particularly in fresh food and e-commerce corrugated packaging. This makes the packaging easier to recycle and reduces reliance on plastics.

In cupstock production, flood-coating barrier protection can be applied to both hot and cold cups using existing equipment, further eliminating the need for PE lamination.

For a more precise approach, Solenis’ patented heat-sealing coating can be applied on conventional cup converting lines, streamlining production and cutting costs.

The rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions drives the collaboration between Solenis and HEIDELBERG.

These eco-friendly barrier coatings help packaging manufacturers reduce plastic use while maintaining superior barrier functionality.

“Packaging companies face growing pressure to optimize their processes while also achieving ambitious sustainability goals,” said William Kuecker, Senior Director of Strategic Marketing at Solenis.

“Our partnership with HEIDELBERG pushes the boundaries of what’s possible for packaging manufacturers. By combining cutting-edge printing technology with high-performance specialty coatings, we’re helping manufacturers improve both operational efficiency and product performance while meeting the demand for sustainable solutions.”

Dr. David Schmedding, Member of the Management Board responsible for Technology and Sales at HEIDELBERG, echoed this sentiment, stating, “With our Boardmaster web flexo technology, we’re expanding into the high-volume flexible paper segment, particularly targeting the food industry with solutions focused on efficiency and sustainability.

“Our collaboration with Solenis allows us to optimize application processes and technology together, offering our customers better service and enhanced results.”

Solenis’ extensive portfolio includes PFAS-free oil and grease resistance technology, reinforcing its commitment to providing environmentally friendly barrier coatings for paper packaging.

This partnership marks a significant step toward more sustainable packaging processes that reduce plastic use without sacrificing quality or functionality.

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