Graphene and h-bn nanomaterial solutions for sustainable packaging
Versarien's graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanoplatelets enhance barrier performance in paper coatings and mechanical strength in polystyrene foam. These nanomaterial additives enable recyclable, compostable paper packaging and reduced material usage in EPS foam, supporting sustainability goals while maintaining commercial viability.
Overview
Versarien offers advanced nanomaterial additives—graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN, also known as "white graphene") nanoplatelets—that address two key sustainability challenges in packaging. First, these nanomaterials can be integrated into cellulose-based inks and coatings for paper, creating recyclable and compostable packaging with enhanced barrier properties at a fraction of the cost of conventional lamination techniques. Second, when incorporated into expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, graphene or h-BN significantly increases mechanical strength, enabling manufacturers to reduce overall polystyrene usage and lower environmental footprint without sacrificing performance.
Technical specifications
Graphene and h-BN enhanced paper coatings:
- Nanomaterials can be readily integrated into inks suitable for paper coating applications
- Coated paper is recyclable and compostable, supporting circular economy goals
- Provides improved barrier performance compared to traditional paper treatments
- Potential cost advantage over current lamination techniques
Graphene-reinforced polystyrene foam:
- Graphene or h-BN additives significantly enhance the mechanical strength of PS foam
- A 20% increase in mechanical strength enables approximately 20% reduction in foam usage
- Compatible with two integration methods: melt-blending/compounding masterbatch prior to expansion, or aqueous solution mixing prior to polymerisation
- Maintains commercial viability with current EPS pricing structures
Key benefits for partners:
- Reduced environmental footprint through material reduction and recyclability
- Cost-effective integration into existing manufacturing processes
- Versatile application across paper processing and EPS production
Technology readiness level
Barrier and mechanical improvements using these nanomaterials in various polymers have been directly confirmed by Versarien and its customers. The company is positioned to supply custom ink blends to paper processing and packaging companies for spray trials to validate barrier performance, and to partner with EPS companies for graphene integration trials and subsequent mechanical performance testing. The technology has demonstrated commercial viability based on current EPS market pricing, where a 20% price increase per kilogram is tolerable given corresponding material reduction benefits.
About Versarien
Versarien plc is an intellectual property-led advanced engineering materials group that develops and manufactures innovative solutions based on proprietary technology. The group operates through multiple subsidiaries that specialize in the production and application of advanced materials, including graphene and tungsten carbide. By leveraging scientific research and its internal manufacturing capabilities, Versarien aims to transform intellectual property into commercially viable engineering products. The company focuses on expanding its material portfolio, establishing licensing arrangements, and acquiring companies that align with its goal of commercializing advanced materials technology across diverse industrial sectors.
These material solutions are designed to address specific technological and engineering challenges faced by modern manufacturers, offering potential improvements in areas such as energy storage and industrial application performance. Through its subsidiaries, Versarien provides industry sectors with graphene-enhanced products and other engineered nanomaterials. The group maintains a focus on verification and quality standards, having been the first company to achieve the Verified Graphene Producer certification. By providing working capital, plant, and operational expertise, the company works to integrate these advanced materials into existing industrial supply chains, solving material-related problems for its customers and partners.
delivered to your inbox.