Amcor, Nfinite enter research agreement for nanotechnology in recyclable, compostable packaging

Amcor, a Zurich-based packaging producer, has entered a joint research project agreement with Waterloo, Ontario-based Nfinite Nanotechnology Inc. to validate the use of Nfinite’s nanocoating technology to enhance both recyclable and compostable packaging.

Amcor says in the proof-of-concept phase of the project, Nfinite’s coating technology will be applied to Amcor’s existing recyclable and compostable packaging material with the objective of delivering an oxygen barrier to improve the packaging’s performance. Once validated, the next stage of development will aim to ensure the products are optimized to Amcor’s manufacturing processes and analyze additional substrates such as bio-based materials to create more sustainable applications.

According to Amcor, the project marks a milestone in the partnership between the two companies that began in 2022 when Nfinite was selected as an Amcor Lift-Off winner. In addition to receiving $250,000 in seed funding, Amcor Lift-Off startups have the opportunity to work with Amcor’s research and development team to create new applications that can advance both companies’ efforts toward driving circularity.

“This joint research project agreement is an important step and showcases Amcor’s solution-based commitment to sustainability and innovation,” Amcor Vice President of Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation Frank Lehmann says. “Collaborating with innovative startups like Nfinite, particularly in the early stage of this exciting new technology, is one more way we are working to advance our shared sustainability goals.”

“We’re very pleased to have Amcor’s support in advancing our ambitions to deliver this nanocoating technology in packaging applications,” Nfinite co-founder and CEO Chee Hau Teoh says. “Once scaled up, we can begin looking for pilot companies eager to leverage this technology.”