Coated Materials
Industrial
The Paper Cup
the World Needs
Recyclable. For real.
Every year, billions of cups end up in landfills because their plastic lamination makes them unrecyclable. Our water-based coatings change that: industrial-grade protection without sacrificing recyclability.
Recyclable. For real.
The Evolution of the
Paper Cup
The industry has used polyethylene lamination for decades because it works. The problem: it makes the cup impossible to recycle. We solve it with chemistry, not compromises.
- Replaces PE without changing your production line
- 100% fiber recoverable in standard recycling plants
- Compliant with EU and FDA regulations from day one
Hot & Cold Beverages
Superior thermal resistance for coffee, tea, and smoothies. No warping, no leaking.
Wet Foods
Effective barrier against grease and liquids for soups, ice cream, noodles, and more.
Lids & Complements
Complete the sustainable package with lids and accessories using the same coating technology.
Why is PE the Problem?
Plastic lamination is the reason why 'paper' cups don't get recycled. Here is the difference Coaterex makes possible.
Today's Standard (PE)
Polyethylene Lamination
A plastic film is heat-bonded to the paper. This creates a composite material that recyclers cannot efficiently separate, sending the cup straight to the landfill.
The Coaterex Solution
Water-Based Coating
An aqueous dispersion is applied directly to the paper surface, much like ink. The paper retains its original structure and is processed without issues in any standard recycling plant.
Real Performance, Real Impact
Not just sustainability on paper. Our coatings are engineered for the most demanding industrial environments.
Industrial Performance
- Superior heat seal vs. PE at lower temperatures
- Proven resistance to hot and cold liquids
- Compatible with heat sealing and ultrasound
- No flavor or odor transfer to content
Real Environmental Impact
- Recyclable in standard paper streams
- Lower carbon footprint vs. plastic lamination
- Higher virgin fiber recovery rate
- Supports your company's ESG goals
No Plastic, No Compromises
You don't need to change your cup forming machinery or your existing production process.
Already compliant with EU EPR directives and single-use plastics regulations (SUP).
Backed by Global Certifications
Our coatings have passed independent testing from the most demanding organizations in the industry.
Repulpable Certified (PTS)
Validated by the European PTS institute. Recycles in standard plants with no special treatment, unlocking the full paper circular chain.
Food Safety (FDA & EU)
Approved for direct food contact by both the FDA (USA) and European regulation EU 10/2011, for cold and hot applications.
Material Efficiency
Applied in a thin layer, it uses significantly less material than a PE film, reducing costs and environmental footprint per unit produced.
Repulpable Certified (PTS) · Food Safety (FDA & EU) · Material Efficiency
Seamless
Integration
Our technical experts work with you to adapt the coating to your substrate and existing equipment. Zero complexity on your end.
Compatible Application Methods
- 1Reverse gravure — the most precise and recommended method
- 2Rod coating (metering bar) — versatile and cost-effective
- 3Size press — direct integration into the paper machine
Every project includes on-site technical support and optimized formulations tailored to your substrate type and line speed.
PE vs. Coaterex: The Honest Comparison
A straightforward look at what you gain by making the switch.
| Criterion | PE Cup (Traditional) | Coaterex Cup (Future) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing process | Extrusion + film lamination | In-line application (coating) |
| Recyclability | Very difficult / expensive | Total — in standard streams |
| End of life | Landfill | Circular economy (new paper) |
| EU regulation (2025+) | At risk of non-compliance | Fully compliant |
| Forming machinery | Standard (heat / ultrasound) | Same — no changes needed |
| Flavor neutrality | Variable | Guaranteed (FDA / EU) |
Your Brand, on the
Right Side of History
Consumers choose responsible brands. Regulations demand recyclable packaging. The timing for making the switch has never been better.
Ready for the first step?
Request samples and a no-commitment technical session. In less than a week, you'll know if Coaterex fits your operation.
Talk to an ExpertFrequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to the most common questions from industrial buyers.
Is it truly recyclable? Or is it just greenwashing?
It's a fair question. The difference lies in independent certification: our coatings have been validated by the European PTS institute under repulpability protocols. Unlike PE which physically bonds to the fiber, our coating dissolves during the standard pulping process, releasing the fiber intact. Not marketing — certified chemistry.
Do I need to change my cup forming machines?
No. This is one of the biggest benefits: paper coated with our technology is fully compatible with standard cup forming machines (both heat sealing and ultrasound). The change is invisible to your operation — only noticeable in your environmental footprint.
Does the coating affect the taste of coffee or other beverages?
No. Our coatings are specifically formulated to be flavor and odor neutral. They are approved by the FDA and European food contact regulation (EU 10/2011) for both cold and hot food contact applications. Your coffee tastes exactly as it should.
Does it work for very hot drinks like espresso or tea?
Yes. The coating is engineered to withstand standard hot beverage temperatures (up to ~95°C) without warping, leaking, or losing its barrier properties. We have clients in the coffee shop sector operating successfully across multiple countries.
How long does the implementation process take?
The standard timeframe from first contact to having coated paper running on your line is 4 to 8 weeks. This includes: formulation selection, sample dispatch, trials on your machinery, and final technical adjustment. Our team is with you at every step.
Is it more expensive than PE lamination?
The cost per unit varies by substrate and volume, but the difference is minimal — and more than offset when you factor in brand value, anticipatory regulatory compliance (avoiding fines or market restrictions), and growing consumer preference for responsible brands.