Focus on PolyAl in Tetra Pak and Axjo’s joint initiative

Tetra Pak and Axjo are taking the next step in their ongoing collaboration, with the goal of further developing the use of PolyAl* which is extracted during the recycling of beverage cartons. By combining technical expertise, material knowledge, and innovative strength, the partners are exploring how PolyAl can be processed and applied in new industrial applications.

Axjo is a Swedish technology company with 80 years of experience in industrial product development. Over the past few decades, we have specialized in products made from recycled plastic materials. With deep material expertise and a strong focus on innovation, Axjo is a key partner to Tetra Pak in exploring the potential of PolyAl.

A key part of this initiative is Tetra Pak’s investment in new, custom-designed equipment, now installed at Axjo’s facility. This equipment enables the processing of PolyAl into pellets – a format well-suited for further testing, prototyping, and product development.

- We have a clear long-term ambition to enable large-scale use of PolyAl, and this project is an important step along the way. By starting small, we can build knowledge, test the technology, and develop new applications together with Axjo – ultimately creating the foundation for future scale-up, says Amanda Persson, Sustainability Manager Nordics at Tetra Pak.

An essential part of Axjo’s approach is reverse engineering. Starting from an existing product made from virgin material, we analyze its structure and function. We then develop an equivalent solution using recycled content – with PolyAl as the raw material.

- The result is alternatives that meet the same functional requirements and are also designed for multiple reuse cycles, after which they can be recycled again within the same process. This is circular product development in practice, says Jacob Nilsson, Group CEO and owner of Axjo Group.

Beyond developing our own solutions, Axjo and Tetra Pak also aim to support other companies in transitioning toward more resource-efficient material flows. The project enables:

• Material development using recycled feedstock

• Testing and creation of prototypes

• Guidance on material selection and product design

• Insights on design for recyclability

The initiative is carried out in close collaboration with RISE – Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner – further strengthening the potential to scale up these solutions for future industrial use.

*About PolyAl: PolyAl is the fiber-free component of recycled aseptic beverage cartons. It consists of polymers and aluminum, serving as a barrier against oxygen and moisture to protect food and beverages.