Krones’ teams have done extensive testing to analyse the technical feasibility of various materials as well as their ecological characteristics and material stability. The following criteria formed the basis of their assessments:
- Recycled (recovered materials)
- Recyclable (packaging that can be recycled)
- Reusable (containers that can be used over and over again, such as returnable bottles)
- Renewable (materials made from raw materials that are either renewable or have a natural regenerative capacity)
The focus was on various materials that might be suitable for producing containers for liquids. Among them was the moulded-pulp bottle, which is made from a fibrous material, typically cellulose or other plant-based fibres. It is bio-based, biodegradable and recyclable. Containers made from pulp have particular requirements in regard to their manufacture, handling in the production line and process reliability, for instance with respect to stability, moisture-resistance and precision of form.
