In the green transition process, paper packaging is becoming an alternative solution to plastic in order to minimize hard-to-degrade waste. However, reality demonstrates that the majority of current paper packaging is still coated with a layer of PE plastic for waterproofing, rendering the products difficult to recycle.

Understanding the problem, a group of young engineers in Dong Nai researched to find a new direction. The person behind the initiative was engineer Cuong (born in 1993), director of a company based in Long Bình ward, Dong Nai City.

Cuong told VietNamNet that the 3-member team spent more than two years testing, adjusting materials, and perfecting the process to develop water-based coating technology to replace traditional plastic coating on paper packaging.

“We realized that if the plastic coating cannot be processed, shifting from plastic to paper does not truly bring about environmental protection efficiency,” Cuong said.

The solution developed by the team utilizes water-based coating technology with environmentally friendly polymers such as PVOH, acrylic, or water-based polyurethane, the materials that have degradable capabilities and are easier to process than traditional plastic. 

This coating still ensures vital features such as waterproofing, moisture barriers, and gas barriers, which are key factors for food and beverage packaging.

The difference lies in the recyclability. According to the research team, the water-based coating can dissolve or separate during the paper processing stage, without causing system blockages like traditional plastic coatings. Thanks to this, paper after use can be recycled easily and reused.

Practical testing 

Beyond material improvement, the engineering team also integrated digital transformation into production. Sensor systems and data management software help to precisely control coating thickness, adhesion, and other technical parameters, improving product quality and stability.

Pham Quang Thuan, a research team member, said the water-based coating has organic origins and can dissolve quickly during recycling.

“Just use a suitable solution, and the coating will separate from the paper, making pulp processing much easier than with plastic-coated products. If released into the environment, this coating can decompose on its own in about six months,” Thuan said.

To verify, the team ran a real test by using water-based coated paper cups to grow plants. After six months outdoors, the cup had almost fully decomposed.

This result shows big potential for reducing hard-to-decompose waste, especially with single-use items like paper cups and food containers, products consumed in large quantities.

In 2025, the team’s water-based coating solution won Second Prize at the Dong Nai Technical Creativity Contest. The result reflects the persistent journey of research, testing, and continuous improvement by young engineers who want to help protect the environment.

Nguyen Thi Hoang, vice chair of the Dong Nai City People’s Committee, said this is a highly applicable solution that fits the locality’s direction on science and technology development, innovation, and digital transformation.

Amid Dong Nai’s strong push for circular economy policies toward Net Zero, such initiatives are expected to help promote green industry and raise production value.

Hoang said the locality will continue focusing on attracting strategic investors, especially new-generation investors, while prioritizing high-tech, green industry, and supporting industries. This is seen as a key foundation to drive sustainable growth that balances economic development and environmental protection.

Ha Nguyen