Covestro AG (ETR: 1COV), a German producer of polyurethane and polycarbonate based raw materials and one of world’s leading polymer companies, has unveiled its latest breakthrough innovation, Decovery® CQ 6010 in response to the growing demand for sustainable packaging. This partially bio-based barrier coating resin offers a groundbreaking solution to the packaging industry, facilitating the transition to recyclable paper packaging without compromising on food safety and convenience.
Traditionally, paper and board food packaging has required the incorporation of polyethylene (PE) or aluminum layers to ensure moisture control and preserve food quality. However, these materials hinder the recyclability of the packaging, leading to excessive waste and environmental impact. Covestro’s revolutionary barrier coating resin, Decovery® CQ 6010, replaces the need for PE or aluminum layers, enabling the packaging to be recycled.
Decovery® CQ 6010 provides an exceptional moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) control, creating a protective moisture barrier for food products. The resin also exhibits remarkable oil and grease resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of food applications, from dry high-fat products like chocolate bars to frozen food, ice cream, and fresh fruit packaging. It is derived from 37 percent plant-based ingredients, transparently sourced from bark, castor beans, and corn. Compared to virgin PE and standard fossil-based coatings, Decovery® CQ 6010 significantly reduces its carbon footprint.
Covestro’s innovative solution not only meets the demand for more sustainable packaging materials but also addresses the need for improved circularity in the packaging industry. By enabling recyclable paper packaging with enhanced barrier properties, Decovery® CQ 6010 paves the way for a more environmentally friendly and waste-reducing future.
As the world of packaging evolves rapidly, Covestro remains committed to driving innovation and collaborating with industry stakeholders to create solutions that align with legislative requirements and societal expectations. The introduction of Decovery® CQ 6010 marks a significant step towards sustainable packaging practices and demonstrates Covestro’s dedication to shaping a more circular economy.
Davide Reverdito Bove, Sector Marketing Manager Printing & Packaging at Covestro: “While PE laminates do a good job of protecting food contents, they make food packaging virtually impossible to recycle. As a result, a lot of them go to landfill or are incinerated. Our new resin is a game-changer in addressing this issue. It gives food producers and packaging makers an excellent opportunity to deliver the protection that packaging requires while having less impact on the environment. That’s just one reason why we are so proud of this new coating, and so excited to be telling the world about it.”
