CelluForce, a global leader in cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), has unveiled CelluShield™, a bio-sourced barrier coating that makes flexible packaging both recyclable and high-performing.
The innovation tackles one of the industry’s biggest challenges: creating sustainable materials without sacrificing product protection.
From Problem to Solution
Most flexible packaging, such as snack bags and pouches, relies on multilayer structures made of different plastics or aluminum. While effective at blocking oxygen and moisture, these complex laminates cannot be recycled in conventional systems and often end up in landfills.
CelluShield™ provides a solution. Made from renewable cellulose and formulated as a water-based coating, it allows manufacturers to use mono-material structures—polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—that combine high barrier properties with recyclability.
Canadian Innovation Driving Sustainability
Developed with FPInnovations and supported by Natural Resources Canada and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC IRAP), CelluShield™ highlights the role of Canadian innovation in sustainable packaging.
“Brand owners and converters no longer need to choose between performance and recyclability,” said Sébastien Corbeil, President and CEO of CelluForce. “With CelluShield™, we are giving the packaging industry a practical solution that protects products, reduces carbon footprint, and simplifies recycling, all with a water-based technology that runs on existing equipment.”
Benefits Across the Value Chain
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Performance: OTR below 1 cc/m²•day and WVTR below 1 g/m²•day at a coat weight of just 1 gsm.
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Recyclability: Supports mono-material designs meeting EPR and EU PPWR requirements.
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Safety: Bio-based, PFAS-free, VOC-free, chlorine-free, and food-contact compliant.
Engineered for seamless adoption, CelluShield™ can be applied with standard coating and lamination technology or supplied as a precoated film. For converters, brand owners, and consumers alike, the coating represents a practical step toward a circular packaging economy.
Founded in 2010, CelluForce is the world leader in the development, production, and commercialization of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and formulated CNC products. The company operates the world’s largest CNC plant, producing up to 300 tonnes annually. Its products are used in applications including oil and gas, paints, coatings, cosmetics, and rubber products. Shareholders include Domtar, SLB, Suzano, FPInnovations, and Investissement Québec.
