Consumers, global brands and governments are push for more recyclable packaging. Klöckner Pentaplast has now introduced recyclable PET blister packaging that is easy to drop into existing operations.
The company, a global manufacturer of high-barrier protective packaging solutions skilled at using recycled content material, launched kpNext, a new "drop-in" recyclable PET blister film. It says it is the only PET recyclable blister on the market that is completely compatible on existing on pharmaceutical manufacturing form, fill and seal equipment.
KP says the film is the only one on the market that can used on existing manufacturing lines without any adjustments to equipment, changes in line speed or a need for retooling.
KP said it took three years of research and development at its development center in Charlottesville, Va., to get to the final product.
Current pharmaceutical blister packaging is classified as resin identification code No. 7, and it is produced from a nonrecyclable multimaterial structure. That means the packaging ends up landfills or is incinerated, said Daniel Stagnaro, head of technology. "Major pharmaceutical companies have been challenging blister manufacturers for a solution that is responsible and recyclable," he said.
PET is far easier to recycle, the company said.
KpNext "takes the burden off our customers to adapt to the sustainable film," said Jorg Schneewind, president of KP's PHD division. "Instead, the film adapted to the equipment. It's a true milestone for the industry."