Platform of multifunctional biopolymer food packaging applications improving sustainability of food packaging & extending shelf-life

The proposed multifunctional platform of bioplastics demonstrates an attractive alternative to food packaging, improving the sustainability of plastics within the food sector, reducing our dependence on fossil-based polymers. The optimized biopolymers meet the expectations of safety and other benefits of plastics for both, the consumers and retailers. Our proposed formulations can handle higher temperatures for critical application, such as retort or sterilization processes, extend the shelf-life of packaged food products; furthermore, our solution can be directly integrated within the existing infrastructure of plastics manufacturers, minimizing markup on the cost of existing non-renewable single-use plastics. CFIN funding will allow us to acquire a key piece of piloting extrusion equipment to
scale up previously developed formulations to higher TRL levels. With the potential to scale up nationally, the compostable bioplastic will accelerate the adoption of sustainable bio-based alternatives, providing all the economic benefits of plastic products, without the negative environmental impact.

Faculty Supervisor:

Beth Mason

Student:

Partner:

Copol International

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

The Verschuren Centre Inc.

Program: