Biodegradable multi-layer films for sustainable food packaging
Developing cost-effective, biodegradable multi-layer films that match the performance of conventional plastics for food packaging, enhancing recyclability and compostability for a circular economy.
Overview
Michigan State University is pioneering the development of biodegradable multi-layer films designed to serve as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics in food packaging. By utilizing innovative material formulations such as polysaccharide-based coatings and bio-nanocomposites, these films aim to meet the mechanical and moisture barrier performance of traditional plastics. This technology supports a circular economy by integrating seamlessly into existing recycling or composting infrastructures, thereby reducing environmental impact.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes alternative biopolyesters including PHA, cellulose, and seaweed-based materials.
- Multi-layer film structure optimized for mechanical, moisture-barrier, and thermal properties.
- Enhanced biodegradability and recyclability through biodegradable additives and coatings.
Development Phases:
- Phase 1: Synthesis of biopolyesters and assessment of their properties.
- Phase 2: Creation and optimization of multi-layer films for real-world applications.
- Phase 3: Benchmarking against traditional polyethylene for durability and functionality.
- Phase 4: Pilot-scale production and regulatory compliance testing.
- Phase 5: Cost-effective production optimization and commercial pathway development.
Technology readiness level
The development is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, with ongoing research focused on synthesizing and testing biopolyesters and multi-layer films. The project aims to advance through pilot-scale production and regulatory compliance to achieve market readiness.
About Michigan State University
Michigan State University is a major public land‑grant research university with a comprehensive academic portfolio and a large research enterprise. Industry partners engage through an on‑campus U.S. Department of Energy national user facility and shared core laboratories with user access. The university provides a chemical process scale‑up pilot plant on Michigan’s lakeshore, a research and technology park, and a Grand Rapids health innovation campus linking researchers with clinical partners. A statewide extension network supports field deployment and workforce training across Michigan’s manufacturing corridor. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, and DoD, while dedicated tech transfer and corporate engagement teams—supported by an affiliated research foundation—accelerate IP, licensing, startups, and sponsored research.
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