Pactiv Pitting Hexacomb Against Plywood

Pactiv Corp. (Lake Forest, IL) is now marketing its Hexacomb honeycomb packaging material as an alternative to plywood for a variety of applications.

The paper-based Hexacomb honeycomb is one-third the weight of and reportedly can cost 30%-40% less than plywood. Performance and price economics make it well-suited for protective applications such as dunnage, shipping protection, crating applications and signage.

Hexacomb honeycomb can also be used as an inner structural component or part of a composite for trade show booths and furniture.

The product is made from kraft paper (linerboard) and water-based adhesives. The paper is sliced into strips, which are glued together to form a pattern of nested hexagonal cells similar in appearance to a beehive honeycomb.

Its vertical cell orientation enables the honeycomb to handle heavy loads without a loss of strength. The water-based adhesives used to join the components enable the structure to be recycled with other paper and paperboard products. Fabrication is also made easier as a utility knife is used instead of a band saw.

For more information: Pactiv Corp., Tel: 847-482-2202, Fax: 847-482-4529.