A Dresden Startup’s Digital Solution Tackles Packaging Recycling Challenge

In a bid to revolutionize packaging manufacturing, German startup watttron is addressing a critical sustainability challenge with its innovative digital heating system, cera2seal, which promises to make recyclable packaging more economically viable.

The company’s breakthrough technology tackles a persistent problem in packaging: how to effectively seal mono-materials—single-substance packaging that’s more environmentally friendly but notoriously difficult to process. Traditional sealing methods have struggled with consistent bonding and energy efficiency, but watttron claims to have cracked the code.

The cera2seal system uses up to 16 precisely controlled “heat pixels” that can target specific areas of packaging with unprecedented accuracy. This approach allows manufacturers to save up to 50% on energy costs compared to conventional heating methods, while also reducing product waste.

“We’re solving multiple problems simultaneously,” says Sebastian Bach, a company spokesperson. “We’re improving packaging efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and enabling more sustainable packaging designs.”

The technology has already caught the attention of major consumer packaged goods companies. Over the past 12 months, watttron has secured retrofit contracts across four industries: dairy, pet food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Notably, packaging machinery manufacturers like Volpak and Mespack are exploring integration of the technology into their production lines.

The system is particularly promising for sensitive products like dairy and chocolate, where precise heat control can preserve product quality while ensuring secure packaging. Its flexibility allows for creative packaging shapes—from traditional rectangles to more exotic polygonal designs—without compromising seal integrity.

Investors and sustainability experts are taking note. The technology recently received gold at the DLG’s International Food Tech Awards, highlighting its potential to address growing demands for more environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

As brands face increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact, watttron’s cera2seal represents a potential game-changer in packaging technology—proving that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand.

Find out more at: www.watttron.de