pahvia

Pahvia is the Finnish term for a thick paper-based board used in packaging and crafts. In English, it is commonly referred to as cardboard or paperboard. Pahvia sheets are produced from cellulose fibres derived from wood pulp, often supplemented by recycled fibres. There are two main families: paperboard (solid board) and corrugated cardboard. Paperboard includes folding cartons and cereal boxes with thickness typically measured in grams per square metre (gsm) or micrometres; corrugated cardboard consists of a fluted core sandwiched between two linerboard surfaces and is valued for stiffness and cushioning.

For manufacturing, pulp is refined, formed into sheets, and sometimes coated to improve surface finish and printability. Recycled waste fibres are widely used, reducing environmental impact but limiting some properties. Material choices influence rigidity, moisture resistance, print quality, and barrier performance.

Common applications include consumer packaging, shipping cartons (for corrugated), display boards, and arts and crafts. Pahvia can be coated or laminated with plastics, wax, or clay coatings to improve moisture resistance or print quality; coatings may affect recyclability.

Environmental considerations: cardboard is generally recyclable and widely accepted in municipal recycling streams. Recycled content and coatings influence end-of-life options; heavily contaminated or heavily coated boards may require special handling.

Historical note: The use of cardboard dates to the 19th century, with corrugated cardboard becoming prominent in the early 20th century and becoming a mainstay of modern packaging.