OCC & Papers

Corrugated cardboard is a highly versatile and indispensable packaging material, easily identified by its multiple-layer structure. The core fluted or wavy middle layer, sandwiched between two flat sheets of paper, provides the necessary strength and rigidity while keeping the material lightweight. This unique design makes corrugated cardboard ideal for packaging a wide variety of products, from consumer goods to industrial items.

The Importance of Clean and Dry OCC for Recycling

Old Corrugated Containers (OCC) are a primary source of recyclable cardboard. For effective recycling, it is crucial to ensure that OCC is kept dry and free from contaminants. Non-paper materials such as bubble wrap, wood skids, plastic bags, plastic wrapping, and Styrofoam must be removed to maintain the quality of the recyclable material. Clean and dry OCC can be easily reprocessed into new cardboard products, reducing waste and conserving resources.

Understanding OCC 11 and OCC 12 Specifications

There are notable differences between OCC 11 and OCC 12 waste paper specifications, each suited for different recycling needs.

OCC 11 (Grade 11 OCC)

OCC 11, or Grade 11 OCC, consists mainly of corrugated containers used in paper recycling. These containers typically feature kraft, jute, or test liners. The specifications for OCC 11 include:

  • Prohibitive Materials: Must not exceed 5%. These are materials that significantly hinder the recycling process.
  • Outthrows: Should not exceed 5%. These are non-fibrous materials that can be tolerated but are undesirable.
  • Combined Outthrows and Prohibitives: The total must not exceed 5%.

OCC 12 (Double Sorted Corrugated or DS OCC)

OCC 12, also known as DS OCC, consists of double-sorted corrugated containers sourced from supermarkets, commercial, and industrial facilities. These containers are meticulously sorted to ensure they are free of contaminants such as boxboard, off-shore corrugated materials, wax, and plastic. The specifications for OCC 12 include:

  • Trash/Prohibitive Materials: Must not exceed 0.5%. These are non-recyclable materials that can cause significant issues in the recycling process.
  • Outthrows plus Prohibitives: Combined total must not exceed 2%.
  • Moisture Content: Should not exceed 5%.

Expanded Information on Corrugated Cardboard

Corrugated cardboard is not only used for packaging but also plays a significant role in various industries due to its sustainability and recyclability. Here are additional insights into its applications and benefits:

Applications of Corrugated Cardboard

  • Retail and E-commerce: Used extensively for shipping boxes and retail packaging.
  • Food and Beverage: Ideal for packaging perishable goods due to its strength and ability to protect products during transportation.
  • Industrial Uses: Employed in packaging heavy machinery parts and industrial goods.
  • Displays and Signage: Used for creating sturdy yet lightweight displays and promotional materials.

Benefits of Corrugated Cardboard

  • Sustainability: Made primarily from recycled paper, reducing the need for virgin materials and conserving natural resources.
  • Cost-Effective: Lightweight and easy to produce, making it a cost-effective packaging solution.
  • Versatility: Can be easily customized to different shapes and sizes, meeting diverse packaging needs.
  • Durability: Provides excellent protection for products, reducing the risk of damage during shipping and handling.

Corrugated cardboard is an essential packaging material recognized for its strength, versatility, and recyclability. Understanding the specifications and differences between OCC 11 and OCC 12 helps in optimizing recycling processes and ensuring the quality of recycled materials. As we continue to emphasize sustainability, the proper management and recycling of corrugated cardboard will play a critical role in reducing waste and conserving resources.

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