PulpaTronics develops metal-free RFID tags made from paper

UK-based PulpaTronics is developing RFID tags that replace conventional metal antennas with conductive structures created directly in paper. The technology is designed to make RFID labels easier to recycle while reducing the materials and manufacturing steps required to produce them. (⁠WIoT Group)

The company uses laser technology to modify selected areas of a carbon-containing paper substrate. The process, known as laser-induced graphitization, turns the carbon in the paper into an electrically conductive structure that can serve as an RFID antenna.

This eliminates the need for a separately manufactured metal antenna. PulpaTronics is developing a hybrid UHF RFID version in which its carbon-based antenna is connected to an RFID chip, allowing the tags to work with existing UHF RFID infrastructure.

The approach could be particularly relevant to retail, where RFID tags are widely used for inventory management, loss prevention and checkout processes. The tags can also be used in applications such as product identification, packaging and digital product passports.

PulpaTronics says its paper-based tags are compatible with existing paper recycling systems. The company estimates that its technology can reduce CO₂ emissions by around 60 percent and production costs by about 30 percent compared with conventional RFID tags. (⁠PulpaTronics)

The company has already produced sample batches for partner testing and completed third-party performance benchmarking. It is now preparing additional commercial trials and plans to expand production capacity. (⁠WIoT Group)

PulpaTronics co-founder and CEO Chloe So was also selected as one of the winners of Innovate UK’s 2026 Women in Innovation programme. The recognition comes as the company moves from research and development toward commercial deployment of its RFID technology. (⁠WIoT Group)