Amcor is evaluating a bio-based seaweed coating technology from UK startup Kelpi as part of a collaboration to expand barrier coating options for fibre-based packaging.
The company's research and development teams are assessing Kelpi's proprietary coating platform, which is designed to provide barrier performance while remaining compatible with recycling streams for fibre-based packaging.
According to Amcor, the technology could expand the options within its AmFiber fibre-based solutions platform for applications requiring barrier performance, high running speeds and circularity. The company said potential benefits include reduced reliance on fossil fuel-derived feedstocks and increased use of renewable resources, which may contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
Peter Ettridge, director, Research and Development, AmFiber, Amcor, said the collaboration supports the company's material innovation pipeline and aligns with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's call for accelerated innovation in paper-based flexible packaging.
"We're excited by the potential of Kelpi's technology, which combines processability, gas and moisture barrier performance, and paper recyclability," Ettridge said.
Frank Lehmann, vice president, Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation, Amcor, said the company is exploring opportunities to scale Kelpi's technology within its global packaging portfolio.
"Its innovative approach to leveraging nature-sourced materials that won't compromise packaging performance is promising," Lehmann said.
Amcor and Kelpi said they aim to evaluate commercially viable and scalable solutions for customers across consumer goods sectors by combining Kelpi's coating technology with Amcor's global research and development capabilities.
