Aquapak Partners with Industrial Physics to Facilitate Transition to Sustainable Packaging

U.K.’s biopolymer manufacturer Aquapak Polymers has partnered with Industrial Physics, a global packaging, product, and material test and inspection partner, to create a harmonized set of WVTR (Water vapor Transmission Rate) testing methods for its Hydropol biodegradable polymer.

As reported previously, Aquapak’s Hydropol is based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), is said to be three times stronger than alternatives, and can be easily processed into films, laminates and injection moldings, giving it a wider range of applications. The base plastic is currently used for dishwasher tablets, ingestible pill casings and soluble stitches. Hydropol’s resistance to low temperature solubility and high barrier to elements adds functionality, providing a wider range of uses. It can be recycled, re-pulped, composted and is distinctively compatible with anaerobic digestion.

Establishing a reliable and repeatable test method for WVTR is an industry-wide challenge. By using equipment designed by Industrial Physics’ product lines, including Systech Illinois, and Testing Machines Inc., Aquapak resolved to find a way forward by partnering with Industrial Physics, which will ultimately provide its customers across a wide range of sectors with a real alternative to using traditional polymers.

Industrial Physics is a global test and inspection partner that works across a wide range of industry sectors to help customers protect the integrity of their packaging, products, and materials. The business is passionate about helping customers move to new, more sustainable packaging materials. The group is made up of numerous specialist testing brands, including Systech Illinois, TQC Sheen, Quality By Vision, Eagle Vision, Steinfurth, Technidyne, RayRan, Testing Machines Inc., and many more.