Kemira, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries, has teamed up with Jain Chem, a leading manufacturer of customized chemical solutions, to develop and market innovative aqueous barrier coatings for recyclable paper and board products in the Americas region. Their partnership focuses on creating moisture, oil, and grease resistance in food service packaging, aiming to replace commonly used polyethylene (PE) and harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in applications such as cup stock, wrapping paper, and folding carton packages. By utilizing Jain Chem’s barrier technology, which is based on recycled raw materials and enables recyclable and repulpable properties in end-products, the companies are working together to meet the evolving needs of their customers and the industry.
This collaboration between Kemira and Jain Chem combines the former’s extensive expertise in the pulp and paper industry with the latter’s wide range of chemical-based solutions to develop next-generation barrier coatings. With the growing demand for more sustainable packaging applications, particularly in the food and drink industry, the market for aqueous barrier coatings in the Americas is predicted to experience rapid growth. Through their partnership, Kemira intends to expand its barrier offering in the region, enhance the recycling properties of existing paper and board packaging, and develop fiber-based alternatives to single-use plastics.
“By further developing this partnership, we can provide our customers in the paper and board manufacturing sector, as well as packaging converters, with a diverse range of innovative barrier solutions,” says Jim Rettinger, SVP, Commercial for Kemira Pulp & Paper Americas (interim). “Together, we can offer the technical resources and product technology needed for our customers to create and introduce new products aligned with their sustainability objectives.”
Manoj Jain, CEO of Jain Chem, Ltd., adds, “Jain Chem is delighted to partner with Kemira to achieve our shared goals of adding value for our customers and making a significant positive impact on the circularity and sustainability of packaging. By leveraging our technical and commercial capabilities, we can drive these improvements at an accelerated pace throughout the entire packaging value chain.”
This collaboration between Kemira and Jain Chem highlights the companies’ commitment to sustainability and their ability to provide innovative solutions to meet the evolving demands of the food and drink packaging industry. For more information about Kemira and its products, visit www.kemira.com.

