improveD performance and sustainability of
water-based dispersion barrier coatings

Improving barrier performance in fiber-based packaging is not just about chemistry, it is about balancing processability, coating quality, and end-use performance. Water-based dispersion coatings are a key enabler for more sustainable packaging, but often come with trade-offs in stability, application, and film integrity.

Exilva® Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is a bio-based, food contact approved additive that enhances the performance and robustness of barrier coating formulations, without requiring a complete reformulation.

What to expect from Exilva®

Formulation stability

Improves coating stability and rheology, enabling more robust and predictable processing.

Application performance

Supports spray application and improves runnability across different coating techniques.

Coating quality

Enhances uniformity and water retention, reducing defects such as mud cracking.

Barrier and strength

Contributes to improved mechanical integrity and barrier performance of the final coating layer.

Challenges in barrier coatings

Water-based barrier coatings are central to replacing plastic layers, but they are not without limitations. Formulators often face challenges related to coating stability, uneven film formation, and cracking during drying. At the same time, achieving sufficient barrier performance without compromising processability remains a key hurdle.

These challenges can slow down development, limit scalability, or require complex formulation adjustments.

Our solution

Exilva® acts as a multifunctional performance additive that integrates into existing formulations, strengthening both the coating process and the final film.

By improving rheology, water management, and film formation, Exilva helps reduce defects, enhance uniformity, and support consistent application, including spray coating. At the same time, it contributes to improved mechanical strength and barrier properties.

As a 100% bio-based and biodegradable additive, Exilva also supports increased renewable content and reduced environmental footprint, without compromising performance.

Technical documentation and formulation guidance are available to support optimal use in your system.

Performance benefits of Exilva®

Stability and applicability

  • Improved stability

  • Improved applicability

  • Allows spraying

  • Improved water retention

  • Better uniformity

Drying

  • Prevent mud cracking

Final properties

  • Improved barrier properties

  • Improved strength

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Frequently asked questions

  • What are the main benefits of using Exilva instead of other available solutions?

    Exilva gives you several strong advantages over polyethylene (PE), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), and standard water‑based barrier coatings. It improves film formation, water retention, and coating uniformity, which strengthens barrier performance and consistency. You can use one coating formulation across many fibre substrates, so you avoid costly substrate changes or process adjustments.

     

    Exilva also supports fully recyclable and potentially compostable water‑based dispersion coatings. This helps you replace plastic-based barriers and simplifies your route to more sustainable packaging. Its unique rheology improves process robustness and runnability, which makes coating application easier and more predictable.

     

  • Where can I request technical bulletins or formulation support for Exilva?

    Supportive technical bulletins and formulation support are available upon request. Get in touch here

  • How can I test Exilva in my own barrier coating formulation?

    Learn how to add Exilva to barrier coatings in the video below.

     

    To get a free sample, contact us here



     

     

  • Where can I read more about cellulose fibrils?

    Cellulose fibrils is a bio-based additive, sourced from Norway Spruce in Scandinavian forests. The new-to-the-market technology is showing some clear advantages helping you out when formulating.

    Read more about cellulose fibrils here.

Watch our on-demand webinars

Breaking Barriers: Advancing Performance in Molded Fiber Food Packaging

Welcome to a webinar where innovation meets sustainability within the molded fiber food packaging industry. Join us as we explore how Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) can revolutionize molded fiber products, presenting advantages and opportunities that shape the future of sustainable packaging.

Watch now

 

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