Biomass side-streams for 3D fiber-based packaging

Problems associated with plastics and PFAS, puts a great demand on our innovation systems. In this regard, annual plant-related industries create or have access to waste-streams that potentially can be valorized into high-performing packaging solutions/single-use products. 

A consortium of five industrial partners (Raws, The Absolut Company, Rottneros, Notpla, Duni) together with the research institute RISE has defined a project in which biorefinery processes for two renewable waste-streams, common reed, and vodka wheat spent grain, are combined with innovative biobased barrier technology to create 3D shaped fiber-based packaging. 

Our project successfully demonstrated the valorization of reed and wheat-based distillers grains (DG) as side streams. 

These results not only provide a sustainable solution for companies’ by-products but also expand the application area, opening new business areas for the company. Implementing a concept for the valorization also illustrates the potential for similar approaches to be applied to other biobased side or waste streams in the future. This can lead to broader industrial implementation, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.