Sydney-based packaging company nviro1 has developed a patented PET closure that allows bottles, jars and their caps to be recycled together in a closed loop. This innovation overcomes technical limitations that, until now, have prevented PET from being widely adopted for caps across the global packaging industry.
The closure, branded as nviroCap, is designed to enable mono-material packaging, with both container and cap made from PET. The company says this removes the need for separation before recycling, reduces microplastic shedding, and supports brands working towards circular economy targets.
“For decades, PET caps were considered impossible to commercialise due to the hurdles of efficient demoulding, sealing integrity, and sealing torque,” said Mark Goodall, founder and inventor at nviro1. “We’ve overcome those barriers with a design that not only simplifies manufacturing but also empowers brands to deliver recyclable PET packaging.”
The first moulded nviro1 PET cap, a lightweight 26mm closure for water bottles, was developed with European closure mould specialist Z Moulds.
According to the company, key features of the nviroCap include:
- 100 per cent PET composition, eliminating mixed materials.
- Reduced microplastics through a low-friction moulding and sealing system.
- Lightweight design with potential for further material reduction.
- Sealing performance tested to 175 psi, suitable for still and carbonated beverages, foods, edible oils and detergents.
- Compatibility with existing bottling systems, including tethered PET caps.
The innovation is covered by US Patent No. 11,591,141 B2, with further patents pending. In its decision, the United States Patent Office stated, “All previously known caps use significantly different structures.”
nviro1 said the closure addresses regulatory pressure in markets such as the EU and the US, where brand owners are expected to shift to mono-material systems under Extended Producer Responsibility schemes and the EU’s PPWR legislation.
The company is seeking licensing and manufacturing partnerships with container converters, closure manufacturers and global brands.
