Enabling a Cost‑Efficient Circular Economy
Sustainable flexible packaging cannot be achieved through isolated product solutions. True progress happens when the entire value chain comes together – from material suppliers and converters to brand owners and machinery manufacturers – to develop solutions that are recyclable, high‑performing, and scalable.
This is where Brückner Maschinenbau plays a decisive role: as a system enabler within the value chain, translating sustainability ambitions into industrial reality.
Sustainability at System Level
At Brückner, sustainability is not approached at individual product level, but across the full packaging system. Our Technology Center serves as a collaborative hub where partners from across the value chain jointly develop and validate circular packaging solutions.
Here, recyclable film structures, downgauging and PCR integration are explored. Crucially, validated concepts are then transferred into globally installed production technologies, multiplying their impact at scale.
By connecting players who traditionally work in silos, Brückner acts as a (networking) partner, catalyst and technology enabler for the industry’s transition toward circularity.
Making Monomaterials Perform
One of the main barriers to circular packaging is the fear of losing performance. Brückner’s developments in BOPE, BOPP and BOPET address exactly this challenge.
Through biaxial orientation and advanced inline coating technologies, we enable:
- 30–50% material reduction through downgauging
- High barrier performance via ultra‑thin coatings
- Sealing, optics and mechanical strength comparable to conventional multi‑material structures
This makes high‑performance mono‑material packaging a viable and scalable alternative – turning recyclability into a default, not a compromise.
Collaboration in Practice: Three BOPE-Examples
- Example 1 – PE Mono‑Material Substitution
Together with Syntegon, Plastchim‑T, Henkel, ppg and Polivouga, Brückner supported the development of PE mono‑material packaging, including BOPE‑HD films. The focus: improved mechanics, high oxygen barrier performance by inline-coating and all‑BOPE structures to replace PE‑LD blown film sealing layers.
- Example 2 – Fully Recyclable All‑PE Pouch
In cooperation with LG Chem, JK Materials, SMInnotec and Bischof+Klein, a fully recyclable all‑PE mono‑material pouch was realized - demonstrating that even complex pouch applications inclusive spout can be redesigned for circularity.
- Example 3 – Mono‑Material Solutions for Demanding Applications
Together with Transcontinental (TC), Brückner enabled various PE mono‑material packaging solutions, including large bags for dry pet food—proof that circular design is feasible even in mechanically and functionally demanding segments.
From Innovation to Industry Impact
Brückner’s contribution goes beyond individual technologies. We enable circular solutions across markets, translate regulatory targets into feasible production concepts, accelerate collaboration across the value chain – and turn sustainability goals into scalable industrial solutions.
The outcome is a dedicated BOPE-HD line layout for best performance, highest output und lowest production costs.
The transition to circular packaging is a shared journey. By combining expertise across the value chain, we turn ambition into scalable solutions.