Biobased Lightweight Sandwich Structures for Packaging Applications
Lead Research Organisation:
Bangor University
Department Name: Biocomposites Centre
Abstract
This project will develop new lightweight, high performance packaging trays for the retail sector suitable for use across a broad range of fresh and frozen food produce. Lightweighting will be achieved by development of a sandwich structure comprising a very low density, starch derived, fibre reinforced foam core which is afforded strength by lamination with a highmodulus protein derived thermoplastic. The resulting structure will be entirely bio-based and formed from starting materials which are commercially available. A combination of innovative foaming methods, fast cycle time and low price of starting raw materials indicate that these materials will be both cost and performance competitive with their synthetic counterparts immediately.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Robert Morus Elias (Principal Investigator) | |
| Paul Fowler (Researcher) |
| Description | The project established and made the first biobased compostable high barrier packaging material for food contact applications. |
| Exploitation Route | This has helped the project collaborators such as NEXTEK and Brunel University develop new technologies and applications |
| Sectors | Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Agriculture, Food and Drink,Chemicals |
| Description | This project has helped to underpin a number of additional collaborations with industry partners such as NEXTEK Ltd. Work has looked at the use of biobased polymers in high barrier applications and as adhesives in transport applications. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2009 |
| Sector | Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Agriculture, Food and Drink,Chemicals |
| Impact Types | Societal,Economic |