aaltopahvia

Aaltopahvia, in English commonly called corrugated cardboard or corrugated fiberboard, is a lightweight yet strong packaging material. It consists of a fluted core layer sandwiched between two flat linerboards, forming a three-layer structure that provides cushioning, stiffness, and printability. The term reflects the characteristic wave-like profile of the corrugated medium.

The basic form of aaltopahvia is three-ply, though multi-ply constructions with additional linerboards and fluting exist for increased strength or specific performance. Fluting types vary, with several profiles such as A, B, C, and E, each offering different combinations of cushioning, rigidity, and run-length capacity. The choice of flute type, liner material, and overall grammage determines the board’s suitability for different sizes, weights, and handling conditions.

Production and properties: aaltopahvia is produced by corrugating a paper medium and bonding it between two linerpapers with adhesive. Materials are typically wood pulp-based and may include recycled fibers. Adhesives are usually starch-based or synthetic, and moisture control is important to maintain performance. The resulting material is lightweight, has good stacking strength, and can be printed on the outer surface.

Applications and sustainability: the material is widely used for shipping cartons, retail packaging, and display purposes. Corrugated cardboard is highly recyclable and, in many regions, is recovered from municipal waste streams and processed into new fiber products. Standards and guidelines from organizations such as FEFCO, EN 643, and related TAPPI/ASTM specifications govern its performance and recyclability.