Sustainability, innovation and metallization: key takeaways from AIMCAL R2R
Last month, the AR Metallizing team attended the 2021 AIMCAL (Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators) R2R Conference in Orlando, Florida: a great chance to exchange with our peers about all things innovation, sustainability and of course metallization!
Here are some of our main takeaways from the discussions:
1. Metallization is emerging as a truly viable alternative to composites
At this point, metallization, combined with the right coatings and production techniques, is the best way to provide monomaterials with barrier properties comparable to those of composites.
2. A need to close the loop
Circularity is an essential aspect of responsable manufacturing processes. Discussions focused on the need to close the loop of the packaging material life cycle by using less virgin plastic and paper and increasing postconsumer plastic food packaging recycling.
3. Sustainability as a driving force for innovation
Production lines need to be redesigned or updated with sustainable materials in mind. We had the chance to listen to converters who presented modifications and innovations that will enable them to run new materials. At the same time, we discussed the need for universal methods for recyclability and compostability testing.