When shipping highly sensitive optical and electronic equipment, there is no room for compromise. Even minor shocks, dust, or contamination can impact performance. That’s why Thorlabs Sweden partnered with Emballageteknik and Stora Enso to rethink protective packaging — replacing fossil-based foams with a renewable, high-performance alternative.
The result is Papira®, a bio-based, recyclable and biodegradable shock-absorbing material from Stora Enso, converted and engineered by Emballageteknik to meet the strict demands of Thorlabs Swedens’ precision products.
Collaboration built on performance
Thorlabs Sweden designs and manufactures advanced optical and electronic components used in research, industry, and high-tech applications worldwide. Packaging plays a critical role in ensuring products arrive in perfect condition, regardless of destination.
Together, the three partners developed a Papira® based packaging solution that delivers reliable shock protection, clean handling, and consistent performance — without dust generation and without relying on fossil-based materials.
The solution has already been validated through flawless deliveries, with products shipped globally and arriving exactly as intended. “For us, protection and cleanliness are critical. Papira™ has proven that a bio-based material can meet our technical requirements while supporting our sustainability ambitions,” says Olle Rosenqvist, Development Manager at Thorlabs Sweden AB.
Converter expertise makes the difference
As a packaging specialist, Emballageteknik leveraged its extensive expertise to translate material innovation into a scalable, production-ready solution. By combining Papira® with smart design and deep application knowledge, the team ensured both performance and efficiency.
“This project shows what’s possible when material innovation and converting expertise come together. Papira™ performs well as shock protection and is a good bio-based alternative to traditional foam solutions,” says Lucas Pontén, Sustainability & Quality Manager, Emballageteknik.
Bio-based protection that works
Made from renewable wood fibers, Papira™ is designed for circularity — recyclable, biodegradable, and free from plastics. For Stora Enso, the collaboration is a clear demonstration that sustainability and high performance can go hand in hand.
“This collaboration proves that bio-based materials can protect even the most sensitive technology. Together with Emballageteknik and Thorlabs Sweden, we’re showing that sustainable packaging can deliver on industrial demands,” says Juulia Kuhlman, Director, Business Development, New Fiber Products at Stora Enso.
Setting a new benchmark for protective packaging
Proven in industrial use, the Papira® solution meets the highest requirements in electronics and optics packaging. The collaboration shows how value chain partnerships can turn innovation into performance — and open the door to what comes next.
Let us know if you are curious what Papira® can do for your company and how it can reduce your carbon footprint.
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