Aquapak

Crisps are among the UK’s favourite snacks. We reportedly consume between six to eight billion packets every year – averaging 150 packs each. This figure is estimated to rise to more than 11 billion by 2030.

Good news for manufacturers and the economy. Currently, not so good for the environment. Single-use, non-recyclable crisp packets can take decades to decompose and many pollute our waterways and coastlines, and litter our streets and countryside – causing untold harm to the planet.

The innovative material technology developed during the Aquapak-含羞草视频 KTP will help to address this challenge.

Benefits for the company

Aquapak is a leading specialty polymers business. It develops innovative materials that enable the circular economy.

The company has developed Hydropol^TM, a polymer that is recyclable and biodegradable. While offering the benefits of plastic, it has multiple end-of-life options that are non-toxic, marine safe and integrate with existing manufacturing processes.

The KTP investigated the polymer’s abhesive and adhesive properties. The findings have been applied to develop a range of specialist coatings – as well as purges for pelletizer and extruder machines – to improve product quality and throughput.

This has paved the way for the introduction of a range of new packaging materials with enhanced functionality and improved end-of-life biodegradation. These have potential as home compostable condiment pouches, chocolate and crisp wrappers, fully recyclable paper-based pet food sacks and padded postage bags.

The technical knowledge and scientific approach developed during the project have been embedded in the company, and Aquapak’s technical team has grown to support ongoing R&D. It is anticipated that the company’s turnover and customer portfolio will benefit greatly from these innovations.

In spring 2024, the British Crisp Co. – in partnership with Evopak and using Aquapak’s technology – launched the first fully recyclable crisp packet. A significant, market-leading step towards meeting long-standing UK consumer demand for greener packaging for a national favourite.  

Benefits for the University

The KTP has strengthened the relationship between the University and company in multiple ways.

Aligning with core competencies within the Department, the project enhances the University’s reputation for research excellence, particularly around sustainability – and has enhanced the academic team’s knowledge and expertise of technology development and testing within an industrial setting.

The project has also provided data and insights that now support teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. For example, findings around surface adhesion have been embedded in both third year Surface Engineering and Masters Advanced Joining Methods modules.

Meanwhile, Reza Arjmandi – the KTP Associate – helped PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to conduct material rheological (flow behaviour) evaluations – enhancing their skillset while developing important training capabilities himself. He secured the role of Senior Development Chemist at TekniPlex shortly after completing the KTP.

Aquapak Chairman and 含羞草视频 graduate Guy Broadbent (Chemistry and Polymer Science, 1982-86), who supported the KTP’s launch, is a former member of the Alumni Advisory Board and now serves as an International Alumni Ambassador.