What is Kraft Paper, and Why It’s Popular in Packaging?
Recent years have seen a fast shift towards sustainable packaging. People are becoming conscious of the environment and prefer eco-friendly packaging. In such a scenario, the importance of Kraft paper increases to multifold. This paper is made from organic raw materials and is very easily biodegradable.
It has now become a prime packaging material. Whether you want to wrap candles, ship your products, or pack a gift, Kraft is an eco-friendly option to add value to your packaging. If you are excited about using it in your packaging, read the blog to get valuable insights about Kraft material so that you can use it efficiently.
What is Kraft Paper?
Kraft paper is a brown-colored material made from wood pulp in a chemical procedure called the Kraft process. The word has German origins that mean strength, durability, and power. It is used for items that need reliable packaging. The paper has high elasticity along with good tear resistance.
Its natural color is darker than wood pulp. However, it can be bleached to change its color to white. A very high-quality white paper is made by bleaching it. The following three considerations are kept in mind while making white paper from Kraft paper:
- Strength
- The whiteness of the paper
- Resistance to yellowing
History, Production, and Process of Kraft Paper
Carl F. Dahl first invented the Kraft process in 1879 in Germany, and later a mill was started in Sweden that made use of this process in 1890.
The process in which wood (consisting of both lignin and cellulose) is converted into wood pulp that is primarily made from cellulose; is called the Kraft process. The wood chips are treated in a white liquor made from water, Sodium Hydroxide, and Sodium Sulfide.
The solution breaks the bonds between cellulose and lignin present in the wood. Lignin is removed from the solution because of its hydrophobic nature; otherwise, it does not allow the formation of a bond between cellulose and hemicellulose. A good quality paper has low lignin content resulting in stronger bonds of cellulose, adding durability to the material.
What’s the Difference Between Kraft Paper & Normal Paper?
Kraft paper has lower lignin content, making it more durable than normal paper. Its making does not involve extensive bleaching that helps retain its material strength and makes it cost-effective.
All types of wood and other materials like Pine and bamboo can also be used to make this paper, unlike the normal paper made from wood pulp only. Kraft paper is more porous than normal paper, which reduces the quality of printing on it compared to normal paper. However, the pores ease the paper’s embossing and hot foil stamping.
What are the Various Types of Kraft Paper?
There are two basic types of kraft paper:
- Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK)
- Coated Recycled Board (CRB)
Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK)
Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK) is the simplest type of Kraft paper. It does not use additional chemicals other than those used in manufacturing. The material consists of about 80% natural cellulose fibers.
Unbleached Kraft has high tear resistance and is excellent for printing. Moreover, its brown color makes it the best option for brands that want to give an organic look to their packaging. It is made completely from pure fibers.
Coated Recycled Board (CRB)
Coated Recycled Board (CRB) is made from recycled material that reduces its strength compared to paper made from virgin fibers.
It is good for packing dry food and bakery items, retail packaging, paper products, etc. Moreover, it is an important component of the folding carton industry.
Environmental Benefits of Kraft Paper in the Packaging Industry
Kraft paper is 100% eco-friendly, along with having high material strength. It is completely biodegradable in a very short period. Moreover, it is also recyclable.
Its production, degradation, and recycling process is very efficient regarding cost, resources, and quality material. Moreover, it will help you create a good name in the market and attract customers who are conscious about the environment.
If you are inspired by Kraft paper’s benefits and its eco-friendly nature and want to use it in your packaging, we are here to help you. You may contact us to get the best eco-friendly packaging for your products.