Cardboard boxes as raw material for high-performance papers through the implementation of alternative technologies: More than closing the loop

The aim of this work is to develop high-performance papers from recovered cardboard boxes. To tackle this objective, cardboard boxes were enzymatically refined and subsequently reinforced with CNF. Results revealed that although cardboard boxes are usually used for test-liner paper production, they could be used for high-performance applications. In this sense, stronger papers than common test-liner were produced through the use of harmless techniques for fibers. In terms of circular economy, the proposed combined approach goes further than closing the loop: new markets can be achieved or lighter papers could be used, leading to significant resources savings.