kartonnen

Kartonnen refers to materials and objects made from cardboard, a paper-based fiber material used widely for packaging and lightweight construction. The term encompasses several related materials, including karton (solid cardboard or carton board) and golfkarton (corrugated cardboard), as well as various kartonplatten and liners used in packaging and displays.

Composition and production

Cardboard is produced from cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp or from recycled paper. The production process involves pulping, refining, and forming sheets. Corrugated cardboard consists of two liner sheets bonded to a central fluted layer, which provides stiffness and cushioning. Adhesives are typically starch-based or synthetic. The choice of fiber source, grammage (weight per area), and flute profile or board structure determines strength, rigidity, and printability.

Properties and limitations

Kartonnen materials are lightweight, relatively strong for their weight, and printable, making them ideal for packaging and displays. They provide good insulation compared with many other materials. However, cardboard is sensitive to moisture and can lose strength when wet. Its performance depends on thickness, fiber quality, and whether it is single-wall or multi-wall in the case of corrugated boards.

Uses

The primary use of kartonnen materials is packaging, including cardboard boxes, cartons, and protective packaging. They are also used for point-of-sale displays, art and craft projects, and some disposable tableware. Recyclability is a major advantage; most cardboard can be collected and reprocessed into new paper products.

Environmental aspects

Cardboard is widely recycled and part of a long recycling loop. Recyclability depends on cleanliness and coatings. Recycled fibers experience some quality loss after multiple cycles, but the material remains a commonly used, low-cost packaging option with a relatively low environmental footprint when properly managed.

History

Cardboard and corrugated cardboard emerged in the 19th century and gained widespread use in the 20th century, transforming packaging by enabling lightweight, protective, and recyclable solutions.