Bio coffee break

The compostable plastic Ecovio from Basf has found its first production application in a system solution for packaging. It is furthermore the first application for the injection molding grade Ecovio IS1335. The material is being used in combination with an Ecovio-based multi-layer system with specific barrier properties.
Working together with the Swiss Coffee Company, Basf has succeeded in developing a system that consists of a coffee capsule and an aroma-tight outer packaging. It fulfills the demanding requirements for protecting the product and brewing coffee in high-pressure coffee machines, yet may still be composted. The system solution is predominantly based on renewable resources.
Basf launched Ecovio six years ago. It is biodegradable and compostable as defined by EN 134328 and based to a large extent on renewable resources. With the new product grade Ecovio IS1335, especially suitable for injection moulding, and with new Ecovio-based solutions for multi-layer film with a barrier properties, Basf has expanded the product line further.
Not only the new grade is certified for biodegradable, compostable packaging to standard EN 13432, but also the coffee capsules themselves. Moreover, the barrier packaging as well consists of biodegradable components. The structure consists of three functional layers: the outer paper-based carrier layer is followed by a thin barrier film as a middle layer and an inner sealing layer based on Ecovio. All three single layers are certified according to EN 13432. The layers are bonded together by means of the compostable laminating adhesive Epotal Eco from Basf. The packaging is designed to satisfy the demanding barrier requirements for coffee packaging with regard to moisture, oxygen and aroma.