Polymer Barrier Coatings and Pulpability Test Standards
Polymer barrier paperboard compliance requires passing 0.15mm laboratory slot screening with under 15 percent reject mass to prevent EPR fee penalties.
PTS-TM 207
Recyclability Protocol
Standardized German testing method evaluates the repulpability of paperboard and converted packaging materials under defined laboratory slushing conditions. Adhering to PTS-TM 207 determines whether coated or treated packaging materials release cellulose fibers cleanly without generating excessive sticky particles or non-disintegrable fragments. Laboratory technicians defiber test specimens in water at controlled temperature and analyze reject mass fractions using slotted screens.
Passing the test qualifies paper packaging products for standard paper recycling streams.
Disintegration Assessment
Procedure steps specify water hardness and mechanical stirring power to simulate industrial paper recycling operations. Applying PTS-TM 207 allows packaging convertors to evaluate barrier coatings and laminates prior to commercial production runs. The test categorizes rejects into coarse screen residue and fine sticky particles.
Visual evaluation of handsheets made from accepted fiber stock detects optical specks and surface defects. Excessive reject mass fractions or high sticky counts lead to test failure and require formulation adjustments.
Pass Criterion
Testing limits establish clear thresholds for fiber yield losses and contaminant particle counts. Highly cross-linked polymers and non-water-soluble films increase reject fractions beyond allowable boundaries. Evaluation focuses strictly on mechanical repulpability and screening efficiency without assessing chemical effluent load.
Compliance proves that a coated board stock disintegrates under standard paper mill conditions.