Barrier coating through chemically functionalized cellulose fibres for sustainable paper packaging
Sustainable, water-based barrier coatings using chemically functionalized cellulose microfibers (CMF) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) for paper and packaging applications. The technology enhances mechanical resistance and barrier properties of paper through eco-friendly chemical modification, offering a cost-effective alternative to conventional coatings.
Overview
This solution leverages chemically functionalized cellulose microfibers (CMF) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to create sustainable, water-based barrier coatings for paper and packaging materials. Cellulose-based coatings represent an environmentally responsible alternative to fossil-derived barrier materials commonly used in food packaging, labels, and specialty papers. The technology addresses growing market demand for recyclable and bio-based packaging by enhancing paper's resistance to gases, moisture, and grease through sustainable chemical modifications applied from aqueous suspensions.
Technical specifications
Core approach:
- Chemical functionalization of cellulose microfibers (CMF) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) using sustainable reactions
- Water-based coating application, avoiding organic solvents and volatile organic compounds
- Compatible with FDA-admissible cellulose materials, supporting food-contact applications
Key capabilities:
- Organic chemistry expertise in cellulose functionalization to tailor surface properties
- Sustainable biopolymer research including CNCs, cellulose fibres, and lignin
- Coating formulation designed to improve mechanical resistance and barrier performance of paper substrates
- Material testing and validation using commercial cellulose sources and synthetic nanocrystals
Target applications: Paper coatings, sustainable packaging, food-contact barriers, and specialty paper products requiring enhanced gas, moisture, or grease resistance.
Technology readiness level
The research team has demonstrated prior success applying CNCs in paper and coating applications, with published work showing improved mechanical resistance of paper coated from water suspensions. The current proposal represents a one-year research project that will hire a dedicated post-doctoral researcher to conduct systematic chemical modification experiments and furnish coated material samples for partner testing. The project is at an early-to-mid stage of development, with planned validation through material testing by industrial partners.
About Universita degli Studi di Pisa
The University of Pisa is a comprehensive public research university with a large student body and extensive graduate and professional programs. Its integration with the university hospital enables clinical translation, trials, and access to diverse patient populations. Co-location with national research institutes and nearby specialized schools creates shared laboratories, joint appointments, and a strong talent pipeline; companies engage through industrial doctorates, internships, and sponsored research. Research is supported by competitive European funding and national and regional programs. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation, and links partners to prototyping facilities and testbeds in the area’s technology park.
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