Paper Science Studio
Goal-Oriented Capabilities
The Paper Science Studio is a collaboration hub where together, we can invent, develop, and test solutions for paper packaging. Dow’s capabilities, coupled with our expertise and vision, help advance next-generation packaging technology in the pulp and paper industry.
Dow scientists work with value chain partners to conduct trials related to the formulation, application, performance, and end-of-life properties of paper coating systems with the goal of accelerating innovation and commercialization of next-generation products.
Our capabilities include:
- Coating equipment: Dow’s roll-to-roll web coater provides the opportunity to create coated paper rolls for under dynamic drying conditions for better assessment of coating properties. Our cylindrical lab coater allows coating application under high-speed and high-shear conditions. Our curtain coater creates complex multi-layer products to evaluate curtain stability and thin coating layers as part of multilayer coating constructions.
- Performance testing: We perform industry standard tests for water absorption, oil and grease repellency, and water vapor or oxygen permeation. Advanced imaging stations provide automated image analysis of liquid barrier performance. Analytical instrumentation is used to determine hot tack, heat seal, and coefficient of friction in coated papers.
- End-of-life: We conduct repulpability testing according to established testing protocols from the Fiber Box Association (FBA), biodegradation testing according to ASTM D5338 protocols, -- and study the life cycle impact of select products through life cycle analysis (LCA) expertise.
In the Paper Science Studio, our capabilities guide our goals to innovate and test a wide variety of paper packaging systems including barrier technologies, thermal paper products, and traditional paper and paperboard coatings.
Advancing Paper Innovations
Dow’s new centralized location for paper coatings research is designed to unlock new innovations for paper and fiber-based packaging from inception to end-of-life and beyond. We are committed to helping you advance your paper innovations with our extensive portfolio of paper packaging solutions.
RHOBARR™ Barrier Coatings and Dispersions deliver exceptional protection against penetration of water, water vapor, solvents, oils, fatty acids, and other substances under a range of temperatures and conditions suited for various paper packaging applications.
ROPAQUE™ Synthetic Pigments tap into Dow’s hollow sphere pigment technology offering high image quality, fade-resistant images, and smoother surfaces, enabling improved runnability and enhanced print performance.
RHOPLEX™ and POLYCO™ Binders offer wide-ranging performance benefits such as strength, stability, glueability, printability, and more that are designed for use in coating formulations for different paper and paperboard grades.
To learn more about how Dow is putting innovation on paper, contact us.
