Multinational conglomerate 3M has unveiled a padded, paper-based mailer material for shipping and packaging of goods across all industries. 

Dubbed 3M Padded Automatable Curbside Recyclable (PACR) Mailer Material, the new material is claimed to be the first-of-its-kind known to combine padding with paper in a recyclable format, offering businesses an automated packaging solution. 

When used with compatible machinery, this material can expedite packaging speeds by up to three times compared to manual methods. 

The PACR Mailer Material is crafted from a single layer of kraft paper and is lightweight, durable, and moisture-resistant.  

In addition, the padding technology provides robust protection against common shipping hazards such as bursts, drops, vibrations, and others. 

The mailer’s compatibility with automated packaging machines and its heat-sealable nature, with dwell times potentially less than one second, promises to optimise operational efficiency.  

The PACR Mailer Material is designed to be compatible with qualified automated packaging machines and is heat sealable with potential dwell times under one second. 

It is suitable for a variety of industries and can be used with different printing technologies, available in multiple sizes to cater to diverse packaging needs. 

3M CTO John Banovetz said: "3M Science continues to advance and create products that are sustainable and meet stringent performance requirements. 

"3M is well-positioned to tackle some of the world's biggest challenges, and this includes creating more sustainable and better-performing materials to help reduce the impact on our planet." 

In 2022, the company launched Scotch Cushion Lock Protective Wrap, a sustainable plastic wrap alternative.