Biopolymer coatings for recyclable cellulose packaging
Innovative chitosan-AKD biopolymer coatings enhance oxygen/moisture barriers for recyclable cellulose packaging, ideal for food and healthcare applications. This eco-friendly solution retains recyclability, ensuring compliance with future standards.
Overview
This solution involves the development of biopolymer coatings using chitosan and alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) to enhance oxygen and moisture barriers in recyclable cellulose packaging. The coatings are designed to maintain strong adhesion to cellulose substrates, offering an eco-friendly packaging option suited for food and healthcare applications. By leveraging biopolymer formulations expertise, the solution provides a sustainable alternative that balances high barrier properties with recyclability and regulatory compliance.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Chitosan provides film-forming and antimicrobial properties.
- AKD enhances hydrophobicity and adhesion to cellulose substrates.
- Coatings developed offer durable water contact angles, reducing permeability to oxygen and moisture.
- Suitable for application on paper substrates used in packaging.
Applications:
- Food wraps and pouches
- Healthcare packaging materials
Development process:
- Formulation optimization for paper substrates
- Comprehensive testing for oxygen and water vapor transmission, mechanical properties, and recyclability
- Prototype evaluation under relevant conditions for targeted applications
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory setting. Future efforts will focus on optimizing formulations for industrial scalability and conducting thorough assessments to ensure compliance with recycling and regulatory standards.
About National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut)
Slovenia’s National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut) is a leading public research institute based in Ljubljana, bringing together multidisciplinary teams, advanced infrastructure, and close ties with universities to address industry‑relevant challenges. Industry partners engage through contract research, analytical services, collaborative projects, and access to shared facilities such as high‑field NMR, mass spectrometry, and advanced microscopy. Its location near established pharmaceutical and specialty‑chemical manufacturers in Slovenia and Central Europe supports agile partnering, talent pipelines, and rapid technology validation. Research is supported by competitive European Commission programs and national research funding. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and spinout support, offering clear pathways from discovery to deployment.
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