Compostable alternative to plastics

10 July 2014


A paper product that can "carry the weight of an adult and be composted within 100 days" has been developed as a lightweight, sustainable alternative to plastics by a partnership between Swedish paper and technical fibres manufacturer Södra and UK based James Cropper.

DuraPulp is a bio-composite material James Cropper and Södra's are aiming at premium international markets including luxury and cosmetics packaging. The blend of carefully selected wood fibres and renewable, non-fossil based biopolymer can be heat pressed to take on any rigid form, or used as a sheet where there is a requirement for high tearing and bend tolerance or air permeability.

Unlike other composite products, DuraPulp is believed to be the only one available where the primary content is pulp fibre and draws on 100% renewable resources, while remaining completely biodegradable.

Södra has explored the adaptability of DuraPulp in a series of design-led commissions, including moulded packaging to cradle delicate objects in transit. Its biodegradability has been embraced as a feature, being made into a seed pod from which plants will grow after the fibre has perished, proving that DuraPulp exists not only as the fibre of product packaging, but of the product itself.

www.cropper.com



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