PET-free paper bottle developed by Pulpex, Solenis

Specialty chemicals producer Solenis is teaming with Pulpex Limited and its global consortium partners to collaborate on the ongoing evolution of the Pulpex eco-friendly paper bottle. While it’s not the first paper-bottle aiming at food and beverage we’ve seen, Pulpex, a sustainable packaging technology company established by venture management firm Pilot Lite and spirits producer Diageo, has developed the first PET-free paper bottle made from sustainably sourced pulp.

Pulpex consortium partners are working to develop branded paper bottles across several categories, including, most importantly, alcohol and non-alcohol beverages. Pulpex is also working toward adding the capability of holding hot-fill and carbonated beverages by the end of 2022.

Richard Brooks, global packaging director for Consumer Packaging at Solenis said, “This collaboration with Pulpex is another indicator of our commitment to new, sustainable and innovative technologies to the food and beverage paper packaging market. The partnership will enable Solenis to serve the growing eco-friendly paper bottle market while maintaining our commitment to environmental sustainability.”

As a technology partner, Solenis will provide chemical solutions to optimize the PET-free paper bottle, including surface treatments to enhance its functional and visual properties. The Pulpex technology allows for embossing, debossing, labeling and direct printing with food-safe colored pigments and dyes to fit brand needs.

Scott Winston, CEO, Pulpex, said, “Solenis is well known as a leader of process and functional chemistries with over a century of service to the pulp and paper industry. The company’s technical know-how and its wide spectrum of solutions will help us deliver eco-friendly paper bottles that meet the brand and functional needs of our consortium partners.”