Process for encapsulation of cellulose based substrates using electromagnetic radiation heating

A method for encapsulating a cellulose based substrate with a polymeric film, the method comprising:

• providing a cellulose based substrate, the cellulose based substrate having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a cellulose based substrate periphery;
• providing a first polymeric film adjacent the first surface and extending beyond the cellulose based substrate periphery;
• providing a second polymeric film adjacent the second surface and extending beyond the cellulose based substrate periphery, the first polymeric film and second polymeric film defining an envelope that substantially encapsulates the cellulose based substrate;
• increasing the temperature of the first polymeric film and second polymeric film using electromagnetic radiation such that steam is generated within the envelope;
• providing a pressure differential between an environment within the envelope and an environment outside the envelope;
• and
• bonding the first polymeric film to the second polymeric film adjacent the cellulose based substrate periphery.