Having worked on a number of innovative designs – including their pandemic-era water-soluble laundry bags that were donated to the NHS – the team at Aquapak has created Hydropol™, which has now been used to create the first fully recyclable paper-based crisp packet, launched by The British Crisp Co.
The new packet, developed in partnership with Evopak, uses a layer of the innovative polymer Hydropol™ coated onto paper to provide the necessary barrier to fats and oxygen as well as complete the sealing. A very thin layer of vacuum deposited aluminium helps to keep the crisps fresh but doesn’t impact the recyclability of the packets.
Consumers can dispose of the new crisp packet in their recycling along with their other paper recyclable items. It’s a “world first” package that performs like plastic to protect the product but recycles like paper. The crisp packet is just the beginning. A range of other products in similar packaging are set to appear on supermarket shelves in the coming months.
About Hydropol™
Hydropol™ can be recycled, re-pulped, composted and is distinctively compatible with anaerobic digestion.
If, however, it was unintentionally released into the natural environment, it will dissolve and biodegrade and is non-toxic and marine safe.
Hydropol™ “performs like plastic, recycles like paper”.
Partnering with Loughborough
Aquapak has worked closely with academics from the School of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).
Professor Gary Critchlow and Dr Fiona Hatton began their KTP in 2019 to understand Hydropol-surface interactions and improve the processability of the Hydropol polymers. Professor Gary Critchlow is now a member of the Aquapak Advisory Board.
Guy graduated from Loughborough in 1986 with a BSc in Chemistry and Polymer Science/Technology.
Not only has Guy supported the set-up of a KTP between the University and Aquapak, but he has also contributed to Loughborough in a number of ways. He is currently an International Alumni Ambassador, is a former member of the Alumni Advisory Board, and is a donor to Opportunity Scholarships. Thank you, Guy.
Check out a short video about the crisp packets.