German manufacturer Koehler Paper has launched a new lightweight heat-sealable paper designed for flexible packaging applications.
The product, called NexPlus Seal Pure 36 gsm, is claimed to be the lightest in its category, with a grammage of just 36 grams per square meter.
The paper is engineered to run on standard packaging equipment, including flow pack and wrapping machines, making it easy to integrate into existing production lines. It also supports a variety of printing technologies such as flexographic, digital, and gravure printing.
Emphasis on Material Reduction
A key highlight of the new development is its low material usage. The reduced grammage means less raw material is required, which could help lower resource consumption during production. However, the overall environmental benefits remain dependent on factors like transportation efficiency, recycling infrastructure, and real-world performance.
According to Joachim Uhl, mill director at Koehler Paper in Kehl, one of the main challenges during development was maintaining stability at high production speeds across both manufacturing and customer packaging lines. He noted that advancements were made possible through investments in modern production technology and in-house expertise.
Expanded Use Cases with Some Limitations
The paper’s relatively low opacity allows partial visibility of the contents, opening up applications such as mailing solutions where recipients can view enclosed materials or scan QR codes without opening the package. Christoph Wachter, head of the Flexible Packaging Paper division, highlighted this as a key advantage for brochure mailing.
Made from 100% certified virgin fibre pulp, the material is suitable for food-related uses, primarily in secondary packaging. Still, questions remain regarding how it compares with alternative materials in terms of durability, recyclability, and protective performance during transport.
The introduction reflects a broader industry trend toward lighter packaging materials. While reduced weight is often seen as beneficial, the true impact depends on performance throughout the supply chain and end-of-life handling.
News Courtesy : Koehler Paper
