Forever Chemicals Not Destined To Live Happily Ever After

Current efforts to eliminate PFAS, also known as Forever Chemicals, from use as oil and grease resistant barriers as well as replacement of single-use plastics is driving unprecedented investment in molded fiber manufacturing and R&D. With this growing need for PFAS-free fiber-based packaging for food contact, development of new barrier solutions which meet functionality, food safety, and sustainability goals is critical. Additionally, the desire to utilize alternative materials such as agricultural waste and other non-wood fibers, increases the complexity of developing PFAS-replacement barriers.

Industry professionals eager to learn about breakthrough molded fiber technologies are gathering in Atlanta, GA on April 22-26 for TAPPICon 2023, a well-known resource for the latest technical knowledge available in the industry. During the Conference they will have the unique opportunity to hear Christopher Dilkus of Solenis present “PFAS-free Barrier Solutions for Food Service Molded Fiber Applications” as part of a joint session between the Papermaking Additives and Papermaking Technology and Operations program tracks. During his presentation, Dilkus will discuss a new solution which can provide oil, grease and water resistance across a wide range of furnish types for use in the food service market space. Attendees will hear about its successes, failures, the current state of the technology, and its future.

Additional presentations on molded fiber include: Methods to Achieve Reduced WVTR Functionality In-line Within the Molding Process (PulPac); Strategies for Developing Molded Fibers-based Packaging for Sustainable Alternatives to Single-use Plastic Items (NCSU); and Methods to Achieve Increased Dimensional Stability in Humid, Hot and Refrigerated Environments and How the Critical Functionality is Evaluated (PulPac).

Papermaking Technology and Operations track sessions:

  • Casting New Vision: Steel Dryers and Energy
  • Squeezing the Most Out of the Press
  • Breakthrough Technologies in Molded Fiber (joint with Papermaking Additives)
  • Advances in Water Removal
  • Papermachine Control Applications
  • Foam Forming (joint with Papermaking Additives)
  • Success Stories
  • Papermakers/PIMA Superintendent Roundtable

Papermaking Additives track sessions:

  • Microfibrillared Cellulose (MFC/Nano)
  • Advances in Strength Technologies
  • New Developments in Formulation Design for Water Based Barrier Coatings
  • Novel Additives
  • Functional Fillers
  • Additives for Improved Pulp Mill Performance 

TAPPICon 2023 - New Program Addresses Issues at Every Level of the Mill
TAPPICon draws mill, paper and packaging professionals from around the world. Developed by industry experts and business leaders, the comprehensive technical program provides fundamental knowledge for both young professionals new to the industry and seasoned professionals needing a refresher, as well as advanced sessions focused on cutting-edge technologies, new processes and latest advancements. Each session provides valuable, hands-on information attendees can implement immediately back at their mill.

With the theme, “Three Rings of Success: Vision • Technology • Action,” the Conference offers over 200 expert-led presentations, panels and roundtable discussions. In addition to Paper Additives and Papermaking Technology and Operations, program tracks include: Coating & Graphic Arts, Papermaking Fundamentals, PIMA Management, Process Control, Recycled Paperboard and Tissue.

View Program Tracks

Exhibits and Special Events
TAPPICon features a large exhibit floor where over 120 leading suppliers will showcase their latest developments in products and services. This is a great opportunity for attendees to meet with companies face-to-face to discuss potential solutions to their specific issues. Attendees can also attend the popular New Technology Showcase which takes place on Monday, April 24 and Tuesday, April 25 on the exhibit floor.

Returning for a second year, the popular Trending in the Aisles event, April 24 and 25, offers attendees a chance to see live demonstrations and hear about new innovations during scheduled, ten minute sessions in each participating exhibitor’s booth. Many attendees plan their exhibit floor experience around the Trending in the Aisles schedule to make sure they don’t miss any key presentations or demonstrations.

Known for providing a platform for networking and building business relationships, TAPPICon also offers attendees multiple social events, career advancement and training opportunities, and committee meetings over the four-day conference.

Save up to $500
Register by March 24th and save up to $500 on your registration fee. To learn more about special mill rates, program updates, special events, exhibitor information, and hotel discounts, visit TAPPICon.org.