Researchers in Finland have developed a new cellulose-based material platform designed to help the packaging industry reduce plastic use while meeting increasingly stringent regulatory requirements.

The innovation delivers transparent films and barrier coatings with performance characteristics comparable to plastics, while supporting recyclability and biodegradability.

Addressing PPWR and Plastic Reduction Goals

The technology was developed through the F3 – Films for Future project by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and LUT University, involving 34 industrial partners.

The initiative responds to growing regulatory pressure, including the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which is driving demand for packaging solutions with minimal plastic content and improved end-of-life performance.

Emerging market requirements increasingly favor fibre-based materials containing less than 5 wt% plastic.

Cellulose Processed Like a Polymer

Unlike conventional fibre applications, the platform enables cellulose to be processed as a polymer.

This approach produces films with:

• High transparency
• Strong mechanical performance
• Plastic-like barrier properties
• Compatibility with existing converting technologies
• Industrial scalability potential

Researchers demonstrated compatibility with processes such as thermoforming, supporting integration into current manufacturing infrastructure.

High Barrier Performance Demonstrated

Pilot-scale trials showed promising technical results.

For cellulose films:

• Oxygen transmission rates (OTR) below 1 cc/m²/day
• Inherent biodegradability

For cellulose coatings:

• OTR below 0.2 cc/m²/day
• Grease resistance rated at KIT 12
• Recyclability within fibre-based systems
• Optional biodegradation where required

These properties make the materials suitable for demanding food packaging applications.

Industry Collaboration Accelerates Commercial Potential

Industrial partners including Colombier Finland, Kemira, and Metsä Board participated in advancing the technology toward commercialization.

The project demonstrated that sustainability and functionality do not necessarily require trade-offs.

Researchers emphasized that compatibility with existing converting and recycling systems significantly improves the likelihood of industrial adoption.

Future Applications Extend Beyond Packaging

The next phase will focus on commercial deployment in applications including:

• Dry food packaging
• Bakery products
• Fibre-based transparent packaging

Further development will target:

• Improved humidity barrier performance
• Multifunctional materials
• Antimicrobial properties
• Intelligent packaging capabilities
• Sensor-enabled applications

Potential uses also extend into medical materials, electronics and advanced coatings.

Industry Outlook

The F3 project highlights how cellulose is evolving from a traditional fibre into a versatile polymer platform capable of replacing plastics in high-performance applications.

As regulations tighten and demand for renewable materials accelerates, scalable cellulose technologies could play a significant role in the transition toward recyclable and bio-based packaging systems.

Source: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, LUT University

Last Updated on 16/06/2026 by Jota Machinery