Folding boxboard (FBB) innovation is changing the global standard. As this on-the-rise packaging technology continues to become more prevalent globally and in the North American market, printers must be aware of both why the market is on the up and up, and how they can best adapt to this technology to give their package printing customers the end-results they desire.
FBB is a multi-layer paperboard product currently most prevalent in both the European and Asian markets. It is used for a range of cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical and luxury goods packaging, as well as for greeting cards and paperback book covers. The manufacturing of FBB utilizes intense heat, steam and pressure to adhere layers together when the pulp is wet. Starch is added to create a bond with pulp and lignin. The final stage involves laying down a water-based coating, making the smooth surface of the sheet ready for most any graphics and finishing processes.