As the packaging industry shifts towards more sustainable and functional solutions, paper-based packaging is becoming increasingly popular. However, raw paper materials can have certain limitations, such as susceptibility to moisture, wear & tears, and environmental factors.
Topical coatings offer a “one-stop-shop” solution for paper packaging by addressing multiple needs in a single application. One coating can streamline the performance of paper substrates, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice for manufacturers looking to optimize packaging in a variety of ways.
5 benefits of using topical coatings on paper packaging:
- Improved Barrier Properties
One of the key advantages of applying topical coatings is their ability to create effective barriers against environmental elements like moisture and oxygen, as well as other penetrants like oil and grease. This is particularly useful in food packaging, where the goal is to preserve freshness and protect contents from contamination.
- Enhanced Durability and Strength
Topical coatings help improve the durability of paper packaging, making it more resistant to tearing, wear, and physical damage during transport and handling. This added strength helps maintain the integrity of the packaging, ensuring the product inside is protected and the package itself is no longer susceptible to failure.
- Customizable Surface Properties
With topical coatings, the surface properties of paper packaging can be adjusted to meet specific needs. This includes anti-slip, anti-static, or heat-sealable properties. For example, anti-slip coatings help prevent high moisture or cooked foods from sticking to the paper packaging causing unwanted tearing and residue on food.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Beyond functionality, topical coatings can significantly enhance the visual and tactile appeal of paper packaging. Options such as glossy, matte, textured, or soft-touch finishes can make packaging more attractive to consumers and improve brand perception. A good visual finish often plays a key role in product differentiation on store shelves and can also serve to establish or bolster brand identity.
- Sustainability and Eco-friendliness
In response to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, many topical coatings are now designed to be recyclable or biodegradable. By choosing coatings that eliminate the need for plastic liners and non-compliant additives, companies can adopt more environmentally responsible packaging solutions without sacrificing quality or performance.
Conclusion
Topical coatings offer a wide range of benefits for paper packaging, from enhanced durability and barrier protection to customizable surface properties and eco-friendly options. These advantages make coatings a valuable addition to any packaging solution, helping to improve functionality while meeting consumer expectations for sustainability and aesthetics.