The recycling process of Tetrapak: managing multilayer composite materials
How Tetra Pak is recycled: managing composite packaging and the role of the MAC 107/2 baler
Tetra Pak and other composite packaging materials—made of layered paper, plastic, and aluminum—are designed to resist moisture and extend shelf life. However, this multilayer structure makes them particularly challenging to recycle.
Their complex composition requires specialized facilities capable not only of recovering cellulose fibers, but also of separating and reprocessing the plastic and aluminum fractions.
The Tetra Pak recycling process and the management of pulper rejects
At the Essity recycling facility in France, composite packaging is processed through a complete recycling cycle. The pulper uses an intensive mechanical defibering process to separate cellulose fibers from non-cellulosic components. The paper is turned into pulp, which is then used to produce new cardboard and tissue products.
The remaining fractions—mainly plastic and aluminum—constitute the pulper reject. This polymeric mix is recovered and directed either to recycling or energy recovery, depending on its final destination.
The contribution of the MAC 107/2 baler in multi-material handling
Within this process, the MAC 107/2 baler by Macpresse plays a strategic role: it compacts the residual plastic and aluminum fractions into high-density bales, using plastic wire, to optimize storage and facilitate subsequent energy recovery.
Chosen by Essity for its ability to process mixed materials with high and consistent output, the MAC 107/2 stands out for its efficiency and versatility, delivering high-performance results even in medium-capacity facilities.
MAC 107/2: compact design, versatility, and consistent performance
The MAC 107/2 by Macpresse is a multi-material baler designed to deliver high performance even in medium-to-high throughput facilities. Compared to the previous model, the MAC 107/1, it offers a 30% increase in cardboard bale density and 15% in plastic bale density, while maintaining a compact footprint (110 × 75 cm) and reducing storage and transport volumes.
Equipped with a horizontal tying system compatible with both plastic and steel wire, the MAC 107/2 simplifies maintenance and cleaning operations, enhancing operator safety.
The machine features a reinforced structure and upgraded counter-pressure cylinder, ensuring consistent and reliable output when processing mixed materials—such as the residual fractions of Tetra Pak after defibering.
Solutions for managing Tetra Pak and composite packaging: contact our experts
The handling of composite materials such as Tetra Pak can be addressed efficiently and comprehensively with targeted technological solutions.
Our technical team is available to assess your facility’s specific needs and help identify the most suitable solution.
