Biodegradable nanocellulose film for compostable single-use food service packaging
Nanocellutions LLC offers a sustainable, non-toxic alternative to polystyrene foam using oxidized cellulose nanomaterial films formed with ionic liquids. The technology delivers high-performance, compostable cups and plates with proven biocompatibility, thermal stability above 400°F, and water resistance suitable for food contact applications.
Overview
Nanocellutions LLC is developing a high-performance, single-use food service packaging solution designed to replace polystyrene foam. The technology uses oxidized cellulose nanomaterials dissolved and reconstituted with non-toxic ionic liquids to produce translucent, biodegradable films suitable for forming cups, plates, and similar disposable containers. The approach targets a critical sustainability challenge by offering a low-cost, compostable material that can degrade naturally without releasing toxic byproducts, making it attractive for food service operators, consumer goods brands, and packaging distributors seeking environmentally responsible alternatives to petroleum-based foam.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Oxidized cellulose nanomaterial base derived from renewable plant-based resources
- Film formation through dissolution and reconstitution using non-toxic ionic liquids
- Biocompatibility validated in a mammalian rat model with no signs of toxicity or inflammation
- Thermal stability above 400°F confirmed through thermogravimetric analysis
- Water stability demonstrated at 50 PSIG for up to 18 hours
- Unique chemical crosslinking confirmed by FTIR analysis
- Capable of straw and fiber extrusion for diverse packaging formats
- Translucent bionanomaterial film with press and form properties suitable for cup and plate production
Technology readiness level
The nanocellulose film has completed initial biocompatibility and material characterization testing, including in vivo evaluation in a rat sciatic nerve model showing film stability at one week and complete dissolution at four weeks. Thermal, mechanical, and water stability have been confirmed through laboratory-scale testing. Future validation efforts, led by Nanocellutions LLC, will focus on confirming food contact compliance, compostability certification, optimization of press and form properties, and oil and water resistance testing at temperatures exceeding 150°F. This demonstration phase is expected to take approximately one year, with the company actively seeking partners to support production capabilities and advanced material characterization.
About Nanocellutions LLC
Nanocellutions LLC is a Northwest Arkansas-based startup that develops natural, nontoxic, and biodegradable products using plant-based resources and advanced nanotechnology. Founded in April 2020 by John P. Moore II, the company utilizes patent-pending technology licensed from the University of Arkansas. Their team of scientists focuses on research and development aimed at creating sustainable alternatives for everyday applications, leveraging local renewable resources to reduce waste and pollution.
The company is currently working to establish necessary testing requirements for regulatory certification in the United States and is preparing for scaleup manufacturing to reach large-scale distribution. By integrating cellulose- and nanotechnology-based research, Nanocellutions aims to create a cleaner, greener future while fostering job growth in the region. Their business model emphasizes the use of renewable materials to drive innovation in sustainable product development.
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