Sun Chemical and Archipelago partner on barrier coatings for fibre packaging
Sun Chemical has agreed a partnership with Archipelago Technology Group to combine Archipelago's Powerdrop non-contact coating machinery with Sun Chemical's liquid barrier coatings for paper and molded-fibre packaging. The companies say the combined system keeps coating weight below the 5% threshold needed for the EU PPWR's top recyclability grade, and a first product, BARV656 VAPORBLOC DFC HOTFOOD, has completed validation and is commercially available. The tie-up targets brand owners and packaging manufacturers seeking mono-material, recyclable alternatives to laminated paper packaging.
Why this mattersPPWR grading now links coating weight directly to EPR fees and market access, pushing suppliers to design barrier layers that keep fibre packaging mono-material and recyclable.
- Sun Chemical and Archipelago Technology Group announced the partnership on 15 September 2026.
- The system pairs Archipelago's Powerdrop non-contact coater with Sun Chemical's liquid barrier and heat-seal coatings.
- First product BARV656 VAPORBLOC DFC HOTFOOD has completed testing and is commercially available.
- The partnership targets keeping coating weight below the 5% threshold for PPWR Grade A recyclability status.
- PPWR entered into force and began general application across EU member states from August 2026.
- Grade A packaging under PPWR must be at least 95% recyclable mono-material to gain lowest EPR fees and permanent market access.
- Archipelago's Powerdrop system applies coatings via a perforated drum and air-knife method, jetting fluids of up to 2000 mPas without contact, waste or overspray.