Zotefoams, a leading innovator in cellular materials technology, has announced a collaboration with SÜDPACK to ramp up production of its ReZorce monomaterial barrier packaging.
ReZorce is a high-density polyethylene-based material designed as a sustainable alternative to traditional beverage cartons made from multiple materials.
The companies said this packaging solution boasts excellent barrier properties on par with existing aseptic packaging used in the food and beverage industry while maintaining superior recyclability.
The agreement with SÜDPACK, a specialist in film extrusion, will grant Zotefoams an additional 100 million ReZorce cartons annually on top of its existing production capacity.
This partnership has been secured for an initial three-year term, with the potential for extension.
ReZorce features a layered structure that incorporates post-consumer recycled materials in its core, encased by virgin polymer on the exterior.
This design ensures compliance with food safety regulations while meeting the EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation/Directive's (PPWR) recycled content targets.
“This is an exciting step forward in our plan to rapidly scale up ReZorce and ensures that following the imminent in-market trials, we will be well-placed to meet the evident market demand for a more sustainable beverage carton,” said Neil Court-Johnston, president of Zotefoams' MuCell Extrusion business unit.
“What’s more, SÜDPACK are experts not only in extrusion but in recycling too, with significant in-house mechanical and chemical recycling capabilities. Building circularity into the ReZorce model has been a priority for us from the outset, so SÜDPACK is the ideal partner for us in this regard and we are delighted to have them join us on the next stage of the ReZorce journey,” he added.
Dirk Hardow, CEO of Business Unit Functional Films & Compounds at Südpack, commented: “With our functional film, we will be contributing to the production of a packaging concept that will fulfil the requirements of the PPWR with regards [to] recyclability, and we see this joint development project as an important step towards implementing closed loops within liquid packaging.”
