Germany-based special papers and cartons manufacturer Zanders has developed a new fluorocarbon-free barrier paper, dubbed Zanbarrier (natural grease resistant) NGR.
Zanders said that a special manufacturing process for the Zanbarrier NGR eliminates the use of fluorocarbon or other chemicals while ensuring its function as a barrier.
For the production of Zanbarrier NGR, the cellulose fibers are subjected to an intense grinding process over several refining stages.
Zanders said the surface area of the fiber is greatly enlarged, so that the absorption of water into the fibers is greatly increased creating a gel-like fiber mass – in technical jargon “slow draining” because the fibers actually feel greasy after refining.
“The cellulose fibers treated in this way form a tight, strong cross-linked sheet structure on the paper machine thus creating a finished paper which has a 100% natural barrier to oil and grease without the use of fluorocarbon or other chemicals,” the company said.
The Zanbarrier NGR applications are identical to those of conventional barrier papers such as all flexible food packaging which require oil and grease-resistance properties.
The new fluorocarbon-free barrier paper can be used for fast food packaging such as doner kebab, french fries; butter wrappers, bread roll bags, food labels as well as pizza and confectionery cartons.
The new Zanbarrier NGR is planned to be showcased by the firm at the FachPack 2018 event which is scheduled to be held from 25-27 September.
At the event, the firm is also planning to present its range of label paper and cartonboard, including the high- gloss qualities of the Chromolux premium brand.
Founded in 1829, Zanders manufactures special papers and cartons for labels, packaging and graphic applications.
Employing 500 people at its Gohrsmühle paper mill, the firm provides high-gloss label papers and premium board paper qualities of the traditional brand Chromolux, as well as variants with extra smooth or naturally napped surfaces.
It serves customers in industries including beverages such as spirits; sparkling wine, wine, beer or water, food and luxury foods, tobacco products, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.