Paper & Cardboard

Paper and cardboard have become indispensable materials, serving as writing and printing paper, packaging materials, hygiene products, and specialty papers. Coatings and surface functionalizations impart these traditional materials with enhanced properties and are essential key technologies for creating innovative materials and products.

As the global demand for packaging continues to rise, paper-based materials are regaining attention as eco-friendly packaging solutions and viable alternatives to plastics. At the same time, there is increasing emphasis on the recyclability of packaging materials. Traditionally, synthetic polymer coatings such as polyethylene (PE) have been used to provide barrier properties against water, water vapor, grease, oil, and oxygen from the air. However, this transforms paper that is essentially biodegradable into a composite material that requires specialized disposal.

Using the sol-gel process, ultra-thin functional layers based on silicon dioxide (SiO₂)—a harmless element naturally found in quartz sand—can be realized. Regardless of size or shape, complex 3D objects (via dip coating or spray coating, for example) as well as continuous paper webs can be coated.

Examples of applications:

• Development of barrier and functional coatings for packaging solutions to prevent migration of problematic substances and regulate moisture
• Immobilization and controlled release of active substances (e.g., VCI for corrosion protection, antimicrobial agents, etc.).

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We are here to help:

With our extensive experience in coating and functionalizing paper and cardboard, we are pleased to help you find a solution for your application. Contact us – we look forward to working with you!

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ANSPRECHPARTNER:
Dr. Helfried Haufe
Fachsektion Dresden – “Funktionelle Schichten”
Tel.: 0351 / 2695 344
E-Mail: dresden@gmbu.de