paperboard

Paperboard is a thick, paper-based material produced from wood pulp. It is designed for strength and stiffness, making it suitable for packaging, cartons, and display uses. In terms of thickness, paperboard is typically greater than standard printing paper, ranging roughly from 0.3 to 2.0 millimeters (about 12 to 80 mils). Grades are available in uncoated and coated forms, and in a variety of brightness and finish options.

Common subtypes include folding carton boards (used for consumer packaging such as cereal and cosmetics), solid boards (often called solid bleached or kraft boards for high-quality printing), and chipboard (a lower-density grade used as backing or for book boards and cases). Corrugated fiberboard, although a distinct category, is composed of paperboard layers plus a fluted medium and is widely used for shipping cartons.

Production involves pulping virgin and/or recycled fibers, refining the pulp, and forming sheets on a Fourdrinier or calender system, followed by pressing and drying. The furnish is formed by mixing pulp with water; coatings (coated white or clay-coated) improve printability and surface smoothness and may be laminated for additional barrier properties.

Properties include stiffness, surface smoothness, printability, and moisture sensitivity. Paperboard is relatively strong for its weight, but coatings improve barrier properties. Applications include consumer packaging, book covers, posters, and display panels.

Recycling and environmental considerations: paperboard is widely recyclable and commonly recovered in paper streams. It is typically produced from a mix of virgin and recycled fibers. Coatings and laminations can affect recyclability and end-of-life options. Responsible sourcing and certifications reflect sustainability in its production.