KRAFT paper - what is it really and what is its use?

This paper is also known as kraft paper. It is used in many industries, such as the packaging, food and construction industries. It is made from waste paper or virgin fibers. It is resistant to stretching and much more durable than standard wrapping paper. Its name comes from German and means strength. The originator and creator of it was Carl F. Dahl. In 1879, the kraft paper production process was established in Gdańsk. Five years later, Dahl obtained a patent for this method, and after another 11 years the first factory was built. Kraft wrapping paper was originally made mainly from Manila hemp. Currently, kraft paper is made from various types of trees, including pine, fir and deciduous trees. It has several color variants, the most popular of which are brown, white and black.

KRAFT paper production process

Kraft paper is produced during the so-called Kraft process. This is a chemical method used to separate the cellulose in wood from the lignin. Lignin binds cellulose fibers in wood. The kraft process transforms the wood into pulp. Originally, the process didn't look like this at all. The technology was improved by the invention of the recovery boiler in the 1930s. Thanks to the boiler, some inorganic chemicals can be separated during the kraft process, which makes the pulp mill operate almost entirely in a closed loop.

KRAFT wrapping paper advantages

Undoubtedly, the main advantage of kraft paper is its durability. It has a thick structure, so it does not tear easily. Additionally, it prevents sunlight from entering, which is why it is used to protect food. It looks very aesthetic and, most importantly, ecological. It has several grammages: 32, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100–125 g/m². The higher the grammage, the more it resembles cardboard. Thanks to its structure, we can print something on it without any problems.

Use of KRAFT wrapping paper

There are really many ways to use paper . It has versatile applications thanks to its properties. A good idea for elegant packaging of parcels or gifts is to use kraft paper as a filling. Additionally, it works great in gastronomy. Due to the lack of harmful substances in the composition, it can be used to wrap fresh food and protect food in general, for example in stores. Companies also use ribbed kraft paper to produce decorative envelopes. It is susceptible to many processing methods. It will also work well in the packaging industry. Due to its high strength and tear resistance, kraft wrapping paper is often used as dividers to protect the edges of pallets or large-sized goods, e.g. furniture. It can also be used in the production of paper bags . Many people think that products packed in a paper bag will easily damage it. If it is made of kraft paper of appropriate thickness, the chances of this happening are close to zero.