Solenis and Heidelberg develop eco-friendly barrier coatings

Solenis, a producer of specialty chemicals, is collaborating with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, a technology company in the global printing industry, to advance a more cost-effective way of integrating barrier coatings for paper packaging directly within the existing flexographic printing process. 
 
Barrier coatings are used to repel hot and cold liquids, oils, greases and water vapor in paper packaging. 
 
Packaging producers can use the Heidelberg portfolio of flexographic machines to print-apply Solenis’ barrier coatings. This expands the possibilities for flat sheet paper and inline web-fed flexo applications with improved product performance and better production efficiency. 
 
Solenis’ specialized print-applied coatings include barrier coatings for board material, flexible packaging and cupstock production, as well as anti-slip technical coatings for industrial, shipping and container applications. 
 
The collaboration addresses the growing demand for more sustainable paper packaging that reduces the use of plastics through environmentally friendly alternatives with improved barrier functionality. 
 
‘Packaging companies face increasing pressure to optimize processes while meeting ambitious sustainability goals,’ said William Kuecker, senior director of strategic marketing at Solenis. ‘Our collaboration with Heidelberg pushes the boundary of what’s possible for packaging manufacturers. With this combination of cutting-edge printing technology and innovative, high-performance specialty coatings, packaging manufacturers can enhance operational efficiency and product performance while meeting the rising demand for sustainable products and processes.’ 
 
‘With our Boardmaster web flexo technology, we are expanding our reach into the high-volume flexible paper segment, targeting the food industry with solutions focused on efficiency and sustainability,’ said Dr. David Schmedding, member of the management board responsible for technology and sales at Heidelberg. ‘This collaboration with Solenis allows us to optimize application processes and technology together to better serve our customers.’