The sealing technology firm has developed new methods for making drug capsules and biodegradable bubble wrap

The sealing technology firm has developed new methods for making drug capsules and biodegradable bubble wrap

UK intellectual property group Stanelco is poised to make commercial breakthroughs in drug delivery and packaging materials, the company reported in its interim statement today.

The sealing technology firm, which recently acquired water-soluble polymer experts Aquasol, has developed bubble wrap and adhesive tape that are claimed to be “eco-friendly while at the same time significantly improving operating margins”.

The water-soluble biodegradable packaging material is said to be close in cost to conventional plastics, less abrasive and holds air in the bubbles for longer. The tape made from water-soluble film material that has a 100% water-soluble adhesive, opening up markets for protective film, tapes and labels.

Stanelco has also successfully used its radio-frequency joining technology to manufacture one-piece capsules from water-soluble materials, for oral or topical drug delivery. InGel Technologies, a co-venture between Cardinal Health and Stanelco, is now building a pilot commercial-scale machine to make the capsules.

Stanelco chief executive Ian Balchin said: “This is a true breakthrough in the commercial processing of water-soluble and edible materials.” In the six months to 30 April the company recorded a pre-tax loss of Ј490,000 (E735,000) but this included Ј226,000 of costs relating to Stanelco’s dispute with BioProgress Technologies over patent ownership.

“Should we be successful, a significant proportion will be recoverable,” Balchin said. The case is due to be heard in the High Court on 8 July.