VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, in collaboration with Aalto University and industrial partners, has developed an innovative method for manufacturing lighter and more sustainable protective packaging . Inspired by the art of origami, this breakthrough seeks to replace conventional materials such as plastic and expanded polystyrene with cardboard structures designed for greater strength and versatility.
A new approach to sustainable packaging
The packaging industry faces increasing environmental challenges, from the impact of plastic to the demand for recyclable solutions. The technology developed by VTT allows cardboard to be moulded in a continuous process that optimises its structural properties.
Thanks to a folding pattern based on the Miura technique, the material achieves a unique combination of flexibility, strength and lightness , ideal for applications in e-commerce and premium packaging.
Applications and advantages of origami packaging
The FOLD project , involving companies such as Stora Enso and Walki Group, has resulted in a biodegradable alternative that reduces the carbon footprint and also offers an attractive aesthetic for product design. From packaging for cosmetics to solutions for the food industry , the versatility of folded cardboard allows its use to be expanded across a range of sectors.
Furthermore, the mechanical process developed eliminates the need for manual manufacturing, ensuring precision and more efficient mass production. This technology is also compatible with recycled materials , increasing its positive impact on global packaging sustainability.
Currently in its second phase, the FOLD2 project seeks to expand the application of this technology to new materials and markets . With the support of an industrial consortium, these innovative packages are expected to reach the market in the next three to five years, offering an environmentally friendly and highly functional solution .
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Source and photos: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland
