Stora Enso now offers its wood-based foam, Papira, in a 3D structure with a ‘velvet-soft’ flocked surface – utilizing fibre and technology from Krekelberg Flock Products and Flocktechniek.
Previously nominated for a Sustainability Award, Papira is described as a lightweight, ‘plastic-free’ and cellulose-based packaging foam. It is intended as a recyclable alternative to fossil-based alternatives, and claims to be both compatible with existing paperboard streams and biodegradable at end-of-life.
Now Flocktechniek has applied Krekelberg’s cellulose-based flock fibre to the foam’s surface. These FSC-certified fibres are reportedly made from biodegradable eucalyptus and developed specifically for paper and board substrates.
The fibres are produced with water-based adhesives and Oeko-Tex-certified pigments, Stora Enso emphasizes. They are applied using Flocktechniek’s electrostatic fibre technology for a high-quality, durable, and tactile finish.
The result is fully customizable in colour, gloss, pattern, and texture, maximizing design opportunities for customers. It is also set to unlock low-carbon performance and circularity.
“Sustainable materials shouldn’t limit creativity — they should expand it,” says Juulia Kuhlman, director of Business Development at Stora Enso. “This collaboration shows how Papira’s renewable fibre structure can be enhanced for completely new surface expressions, demonstrating what’s possible when material innovation and design meet.”
Previous industrial applications for Papira include protective inserts for Wilfa’s kitchen mixer. Combined with corrugated board components, these inserts are thought to achieve efficient product protection while matching the “clean Nordic design” of the product itself.
In other news, Elof Hansson Holding invested in the global roll-out of Fibu’s wood fibre foam back in 2023. This innovation is thought to be durable under compression, soft to the touch, scented like wood, and biodegradable at end-of-life.
If you liked this story, you might also enjoy:
The ultimate guide to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation in 2025
How are the top brands progressing on packaging sustainability?
Everything you need to know about global packaging sustainability regulation in 2025
The key to increasing the use of reusable packaging in supermarkets
No comments yet