Encapsulation-based additive for moisture-resistant, compostable PLA composites
A particle-based additive that simultaneously accelerates composting, toughens PLA, and enhances moisture barrier properties. Designed for co-extrusion as a skin layer without changing existing manufacturing processes, enabling fully compostable bioplastic packaging with improved ductility and shelf life.
Overview
This technology introduces an encapsulation-based additive that improves the performance of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) bioplastics on three fronts: composting rate, mechanical toughness, and moisture barrier properties. The additive is designed to function as a thin skin layer co-extruded with standard PLA core resins, meaning manufacturers can adopt it without altering their existing extrusion processes. The result is a more versatile, fully compostable material suited for packaging and other single-use applications where both environmental performance and mechanical durability are critical.
Technical specifications
- Particle-based encapsulation additive developed in collaboration between Trucapsol and Lehigh University, compatible with melt compounding and extrusion processes
- Composting acceleration: At 5 wt% loading, molecular weight loss increases by 25% over neat PLA at 58°C/50% RH (modified ASTM D5338) and by 6% at ambient conditions (20°C/50% RH) over 6 weeks
- Enhanced toughness: Elongation at break increases by 740% versus neat PLA at 5 wt% loading (ASTM D638)
- Moisture barrier enhancement: Hydrogenated fats are being integrated into the particle structure to increase hydrophobicity and reduce water vapor transmission (ISO 7783)
- Processing compatibility: Designed for co-extrusion as a skin layer using extrusion-grade PLA (Ingeo 4043D) on twin-screw extruders with thin-film dies, requiring no manufacturing process changes
- Validation methods: Tensile testing (ASTM D638), compostability testing (ASTM D5338 / D6400), and water vapor permeation testing (ISO 7783)
Technology readiness level
The core additive has already been demonstrated at laboratory scale, with published preliminary results showing measurable improvements in composting rate and tensile toughness. The base additive has been scaled, and the current phase focuses on integrating hydrogenated fats to enhance moisture barrier performance and optimize ductility. Film extrusion trials and full compostability and permeation testing are expected to be completed in less than one year. The technology is positioned at an early-to-mid development stage, ready for collaborative refinement and pilot-scale validation with industry partners.
About Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University is a comprehensive private R1 research university in Fort Lauderdale–Davie with a strong professional focus and a multi‑campus footprint. Industry partners can access shared core facilities, wet/dry labs, and leasable space in the 215,000‑sq‑ft Center for Collaborative Research, enabling co‑located projects and streamlined compliance. An oceanographic campus at the entrance to Port Everglades provides direct field access and specialized facilities, while NSU Health and the adjacent HCA Florida University Hospital support clinical research and translation. Research is supported by competitive federal funding, including NIH and NOAA, alongside other federal sources such as DoD; a dedicated Office of Technology Transfer and Commercialization assists with IP, licensing, and startup formation.
delivered to your inbox.