We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Recyclable and Biodegradable Paper Coating with Functionalized PLA and PBAT
Summary
Researchers developed recyclable and industrially compostable paper coatings using functionalized polylactic acid and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) blends as alternatives to conventional polyester coatings. The coated paper demonstrated effective water and oil repellency, barrier properties, and mechanical performance while being fully repulpable and recyclable. Notably, the coating is free of PFAS and persistent microplastics, offering a circular economy solution for food packaging.
Conventional nonfunctional polyester-coated paper is suitable for packaging, but this coated paper is nonrecyclable. Herein, we report paper coating materials recyclable and industrially compostable using functionalized polyester blends. First, carboxylic acid-functionalized polylactic acid (CPLA) and carboxylic acid-functionalized poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (CPBAT) were synthesized. CPLA, either alone or as a blend of CPLA and CPBAT, was emulsified and then applied for paper coating. The coated paper was tested to evaluate its water and oil repellency, gas and moisture barrier, sealing, and mechanical properties index. The coated paper's repulpability and recyclability were fully validated by certified methods. The compostability of the CPBAT- and CPLA-coated papers was also confirmed. This newly coated paper is PFAS- and persistent microplastics-free, and its recyclable nature fits into a circular economy approach.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Boric acid-crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol): biodegradable, biocompatible, robust, and high-barrier paper coating
Researchers developed a paper coating using polyvinyl alcohol crosslinked with boric acid that significantly improves the paper's barrier properties and mechanical strength. The study found that this coating remains fully biodegradable and biocompatible despite its enhanced performance. The findings suggest a practical, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic-based packaging coatings.
Multilayer Sheets Based on Double Coatings of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) on Paper Substrate for Sustainable Food Packaging Applications
Researchers developed biodegradable multilayer food packaging by double-coating paper substrates with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) using a thermo-sealing technique, finding that the PHBV coatings improved mechanical resistance, moisture barrier properties, and ductility compared to uncoated paper while offering a sustainable alternative to petrochemical polymer coatings.
Preparation and Characterization of Degradable Cellulose−Based Paper with Superhydrophobic, Antibacterial, and Barrier Properties for Food Packaging
Researchers prepared food packaging paper coated with polylactic acid and cinnamaldehyde as a barrier layer and nano silica-modified stearic acid as a superhydrophobic outer layer, creating a cellulose-based alternative to plastic packaging. The resulting material showed excellent water resistance, thermal stability, and antimicrobial activity while being made from renewable and biodegradable components.
Degradable Polymeric Waxes for Paper Coating Applications
Scientists created degradable wax-like polymers that can coat paper packaging to make it water- and oil-resistant, offering an alternative to traditional plastic coatings. Unlike conventional plastic-coated paper, these coated papers can be broken down and recycled through standard paper repulping. This kind of innovation could help reduce the microplastic pollution that comes from plastic-coated packaging materials breaking down in the environment.
Chitosan–Graft–Poly(dimethylsiloxane)/Zein Coatings for the Fabrication of Environmentally Friendly Oil- and Water-Resistant Paper
Researchers developed a sustainable paper coating using chitosan-graft-poly(dimethylsiloxane) and zein biopolymers that provides oil and water resistance, offering a biodegradable alternative to conventional synthetic polymer coatings that contribute to microplastic pollution. The approach demonstrates a practical strategy for reducing plastic waste in paper packaging applications.