PulPac Advances Fiber Closures, Unveils Plastic-like Caps

PulPac continues to expand the possibilities of fiber-based packaging, now introducing a new generation of caps currently under development. The caps will be presented publicly for the first time at interpack 2026, demonstrating how fiber can move into one of the most widely used and technically demanding components in packaging.

Caps and closures represent a significant opportunity within packaging, used across a wide range of applications and industries. Building on years of experience in Dry Molded Fiber, PulPac is now advancing fiber-based alternatives in this category, targeting one of the most widely used plastic components in everyday packaging and a key segment in the transition toward more material-aligned packaging systems. The new caps are designed to meet the functional and consumer expectations typically associated with plastic alternatives, while moving toward a fiber-based solution.

Early tests indicate promising performance across several key parameters, including thread engagement, opening and closing functionality, sealing architectures, and overall tactile experience. The caps also enable a high level of design flexibility, including the ability to differentiate the inside and outside of the cap, opening new possibilities for both function and brand expression.

The development is carried out together with PA Consulting and in close dialogue with industry stakeholders including PulPac’s designated machine partner for this segment, Optima. It also builds on ongoing work within the Bottle Collective initiative, where complete fiber-based bottle systems, including closures, are being explored and evaluated as integrated solutions, with participation from several global brand owners and packaging players.

Early versions of the caps have already been produced and tested in real-life environments as part of ongoing bottle and packaging evaluations. These activities reflect a growing interest from across the value chain to explore fiber-based alternatives for closures, as part of wider transitions toward packaging systems with improved material alignment and circularity.

“At PulPac, we focus on creating value both in what can be realized today and what comes next in packaging. Advancing fiber-based caps is a natural step in that journey,” says Charlotte Walldal, Chief Technology Officer at PulPac. “When we show the cap to customers, the reaction says a lot. The first response is often disbelief that they’re made from fiber. The look, the sound when you tap it against a tabletop, and especially the tactile feel challenge expectations of what fiber can be. It’s unexpected and something you need to experience firsthand to fully understand.”

Visitors to interpack will be able to explore both Dry Molded Fiber solutions available today and developments that will shape the packaging systems of tomorrow. The caps will be showcased in both PulPac’s and Optima’s booths.