VTT Finland and partners have launched an origami-inspired packaging technology, offering a recyclable alternative to traditional protective materials.

Finnish Partnership Unveils Origami-Inspired Sustainable Packaging Technology

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, in collaboration with Aalto University and several Finnish industrial partners, has introduced an innovative origami-inspired packaging technology. This breakthrough aims to replace traditional protective materials like expanded polystyrene and plastic with a sustainable and recyclable alternative made from cardboard.

The technology utilizes origami folding techniques to create lightweight, durable, and flexible protective structures. Designed through a continuous reel-to-reel process, the folded cardboard offers excellent shock-absorption properties, making it ideal for safeguarding fragile items during transport. Its aesthetic qualities also make it an attractive choice for packaging designers seeking visually appealing, eco-friendly solutions.

“The origami-inspired FOLD technology is unique in its ability to transform cardboard into a material that is both functional and visually appealing. This innovation aligns with our goal of reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability,” said Jarmo Kouko, project leader at VTT.

Known as the FOLD project, this initiative involves 13 different organizations and institutions. In its first phase, the focus was on developing machinery capable of continuously folding cardboard. The second phase, FOLD2, is set to expand the technology’s applications by testing materials such as PET films and aluminum foil, broadening its use across industries.

Partners like Stora Enso have expressed optimism about the commercial potential of the technology. According to Jari Räsänen, R&D Manager at Stora Enso, the FOLD technology could reach the market within three to five years, pending successful development and collaboration with global partners.

This innovation aligns with the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging solutions. By using biodegradable and recyclable materials, the origami technology supports circular economy principles and significantly reduces reliance on single-use plastics. Furthermore, the versatility of the material offers a wide range of applications, from consumer packaging to industrial protective solutions.

As the project advances, VTT and its partners are actively seeking collaborators across Europe for pilot programs. The ultimate goal is to bring this groundbreaking technology to a global market, reshaping the future of protective packaging and contributing to a more sustainable packaging industry.


More Info(VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland)

Keywords

origami packaging, sustainable packaging, VTT Finland, protective packaging, cardboard innovation

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