A two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Loughborough University and Aquapak supported the advent of alternatives to single-use plastics which could revolutionise the composition and manufacture of food packaging.
Aquapak is a leading specialty polymers business. It develops innovative materials that enable the circular economy.
The company has developed HydropolTM, a polymer that is recyclable and biodegradable. While offering the benefits of plastic, it has multiple end-of-life options that are non-toxic, marine safe and integrate with existing manufacturing processes.
The KTP with Loughborough University investigated the polymer’s abhesive and adhesive properties. The findings have been applied to develop a range of specialist coatings – as well as purges for pelletizer and extruder machines – to improve product quality and throughput.
This has paved the way for the introduction of a range of new packaging materials with enhanced functionality and improved end-of-life biodegradation. These have potential as home compostable condiment pouches, chocolate and crisp wrappers, fully recyclable paper-based pet food sacks and padded postage bags.
In spring 2024, the British Crisp Co. – in partnership with Evopak and using Aquapak’s technology – launched the first fully recyclable crisp packet. A significant, market-leading step towards meeting long-standing UK consumer demand for greener packaging for a national favourite.
Read the full project case study here.
This KTP project was funded by UKRI through Innovate UK.
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