Blue Ocean Closures has launched Paper-Plug, a fibre-based opening and dispensing system intended for carton and corrugated board packaging.

The design uses an internal fibre screw closure linked directly to board structures.

The system is said to differ from formats that use tear openings, added plastic parts or more complex assemblies.

It is intended to be built into board-based packs while keeping the structure relatively simple and aimed at cost efficiency.

The concept is based on its forming technology for fibre components, which operates with low energy use and at industrial production speed.

The format could be used in dry and frozen foods, ingredients, health products, home care and cleaning products, refill and reuse systems, as well as premium cartons and hybrid board formats.

The concept is aligned with packaging industry priorities, including ease of use, reduced dependence on fossil-based materials, a potentially smaller carbon footprint, and integration with barrier elements where needed.

Blue Ocean Closures chief technology officer Staffan Andersson said: “Paper packaging has historically been strong in surfaces and structure but limited in functionality wherever advanced opening, dispensing and reclosure features were needed.

"With Paper-Plug, we want to expand what paper packaging can become. We believe this opens a completely new design space where sustainability, convenience and economics increasingly reinforce each other rather than compete.”

Last year, technology company Nissha invested in Blue Ocean Closures while becoming a co-owner of the Swedish sustainability startup.