Paper & Paperboard are theoretically two separate words and the distinction is primarily based on thickness. Normally papers having a thickness more than 0.3mm are classified as Paperboard but the distinction becomes hazy in many ways due to the numerous exceptions applied.

To make things simpler; the ISO rule applies that paper above the 224g/m² mark is classed as Paperboard.    

Going on to the kinds of Paperboard, the list is exhaustive but we’ll focus on Linerboard and Corrugating Medium.

Although traditionally, both of the above are defined as being virgin grades with the difference in the pulp as well as the finishing, but since last 30 – 40 years, the world has seen the emergence of recycled grades primarily being Testliner (TL) and Waste based Fluting (WBF).

We distinguish Paper & Paperboard by the pulp they are made i.e. softwood or hardwood. These grades are obtained from trees, and according to biologists, there are more than 35,000 different kinds of woods, but the question is;

Which one of them is softwood or hardwood?

Skipping the technicalities and putting it simply for a layman and new industry professionals: softwood is obtained from trees having needles (Coniferous) and hardwood is obtained from trees which shed their leaves (Deciduous or Evergreen).