Paper pulp manufacturer Södra Cell, a member of Swedish forestry association Södra (Skogsudden, Växjö; www.sodra.com), is to begin production of a new biodegradable composite material called “DuraPulp” after the summer. Made of specially selected pulp combined with a renewable biopolymer, DuraPulp displays several special properties, including humidity resistance, tensile strength and rigidity.

The new material is the result of years of research, carried out in cooperation with R&D specialist Innventia (Stockholm / Sweden; www.innventia.com). “DuraPulp is a material that is making a very timely appearance,” said Södra Cell business area manager Henrik Wettergren, adding that “it can replace plastics in many applications but it has the distinct advantage of being biodegradable.” Initially, Södra will only produce small amounts of the new material, although Wettergren added that production could be increased to match demand.