Fibre Ratio
Proportion of recovered paper fibres used in the manufacture of the outer layers of a corrugated board defines the sustainability profile of the material. Testliner recycled content is typically high, as this grade is specifically designed to maximize the use of secondary fibres from old corrugated containers or mixed paper waste. This distinguishes it from kraftliner, which is primarily made from virgin pulp.
The percentage of recycled material impacts both the environmental credentials and the physical properties of the liner.
Strength Specification
Burst strength and compression resistance are the key metrics used to categorize different grades of this liner. Adding starch or other chemicals helps maintain these properties when the fibre quality is low.
Sustainability Measurement
Documenting the exact proportion of waste paper used is necessary for meeting the procurement requirements of many retailers. Calculation of the testliner recycled content follows industry standards that subtract the weight of any virgin fibres or non-paper additives. This transparency allows for the calculation of the overall recycled content of a finished box.
Mills often use a blend of different waste streams to balance cost and performance. The visual appearance of the sheet can vary depending on the source of the recovered paper. Using more recycled fibre reduces the carbon footprint of the packaging.
It also supports the circular economy by providing a market for collected paper waste. Buyers use this information to compare the environmental impact of different suppliers.