TekniPlex invests in research facility in Ohio

Wayne, Pennsylvania-based TekniPlex Inc. says it has made enhancements to its Global Innovation Center in Holland, Ohio, near Toledo—a facility that acts as a hub for materials science research and development.

TekniPlex, which has invested in the production of both molded pulp and recycled-content polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), says the upgraded facility features state-of-the-art labs, rapid prototyping capabilities and ideation rooms.

The Global Innovation Center focuses on the development of new materials science platforms for a variety of everyday items, including packaging for the health care, food and beverage, personal care and household products sectors.

“We’re committed to making this facility a world-class innovation center for our global materials science teams, customers and surrounding community,” says Oscar Martin, senior vice president at TekniPlex. “Continuing to invest in this hub for ideas and breakthroughs allows TekniPlex to remain at the forefront of materials science."

In May, TekniPlex announced plans for a new 200,000-square-foot molded fiber manufacturing facility in Ohio it estimates will being operating early next year. “We are excited to continue to bring new technology with our specialty molded fiber solutions expansion including our high-performance egg carton, which provides superior egg protection to our customers, reducing food waste and cost,” Jay Arnold, vice president at TekniPlex, said at the time.

In January 2022, the company introduced a polystyrene (PS) egg carton made with 25 percent postconsumer recycled (PCR) PS. “These cartons can be recycled multiple times through advanced recycling without compromising quality or performance, while also supporting the packaging industry’s goal of moving toward a true circular economy,” Arnold said at that time.

The TekniPlex GeoPack product line includes food service items made with recycled-content molded fiber, rPET and polypropylene and polyethylene containing at least 10 percent PCR materials.

Products available in the GeoPack line include egg cartons and trays, produce trays, food service containers, wine carriers, dip tubes for spray pumps and plates and bowls.