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A cardboard structure is anything made from cardboard. This could be a complicated model or something as simple as a box.

One of the main uses of cardboard is to package items and goods. Cardboard is used to make cereal boxes, takeaway drink cups and to package online shopping deliveries.

There are different techniques that can be used to make cardboard structures stronger. Lamination and corrugation are two techniques used to give cardboard structures extra strength.

Join Fran in the workshop to learn how corrugation and lamination can be used to strengthen cardboard structures.

Cardboard is 100% recyclable, lightweight and easy to carry and transport. It is sturdy and protects whatever is stored inside it.

Boxes can also be made from different paper-based products.

Thin boxes are often made from paperboard. Paperboard is not as strong as cardboard.

It is used for boxes when the contents are lightweight, like breakfast cereal and pasta.

Cardboard and paperboard can be strengthened through a process called lamination.

Lamination involves attaching multiple layers together. This is done to add strength and stiffness to the cardboard.

Lamination can be done with different materials. Sometimes a thin layer of plastic film is added to paperboard to make it more durable and resistant to liquids.

A good example of this are restaurant menus. These are often laminated with a plastic film to reduce damage from scratches, tears and spillages.

Lamination can be done at home by applying PVA glue to a thin sheet of paperboard or cardboard and adding more layers.

Another way to laminate is using clear, sticky back plastic or laminating pouches.

Although adding lamination to cardboard products makes them stronger, it can also make it more difficult to recycle them.

Corrugation means to add a series of folds and grooves to a material to give it added strength.

Arches are curves used for strength. They are a strong design. Engineers use them to make strong structures like bridges and tunnels. Corrugated cardboard uses the same idea by adding many arches to cardboard or paperboard.

These cardboard arches are called flutes. When the flutes are glued to the cardboard they resist bending and pressure. Every new layer of flutes added to a structure makes it stronger.

Corrugation can provide insulation from hot or cold as well.

Takeaway cups often have corrugated card on the outside. The corrugated card helps protect people’s hands from the heat.

Do you know the difference between lamination and corrugation? Put your knowledge to the test.

Take this quiz to find out what you know about lamination and corrugation.