Metsä Group will install the world's first commercial-scale Valmet 3D Fiber molded fiber production line at its mill in Äänekoski, Finland, according to the technology supplier Valmet.

The line will have a nominal capacity of more than 100 million products per year and will be located alongside the existing demo plant. The technology uses cellulose fibers to form ready-to-use, three-dimensional products directly from pulp, eliminating intermediate steps.

The production line will manufacture lightweight yet rigid end products including trays, plates, and food packaging containers as alternatives to plastic packaging.

The investment follows Valmet's development and piloting program, including the joint demo plant startup in 2022, and the technology launch in June 2026. Startup of the commercial line is scheduled for 2028. The order value was not disclosed.

Metsä Group, a Finnish forest industry group, focuses on pulp, paperboards, tissue and greaseproof papers, wood products, and wood supply and forest services.

Valmet is a global technology leader in serving process industries.