Graphene-oxide as a sustainable strength and barrier agent for food contact paper
GO-Eco presents graphene-oxide (GO) as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to plastic and PFAS in food packaging. This FDA- and EPA-approved solution enhances strength and barrier properties, is recyclable and compostable, and requires no additional CAPEX or OPEX.
Overview
GO-Eco introduces an innovative use of graphene-oxide (GO) as a multifunctional agent in food and beverage packaging. This technology offers a sustainable and safe alternative to plastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). By applying GO as a thin coating or wet-end agent, it enhances the strength and barrier properties of paper products, making them suitable for disposable tableware and corrugated boards. The similarity of GO's chemical structure to carbohydrates allows it to provide significant improvements in water, oil/grease, and gas barrier properties, without compromising recyclability or compostability.
Technical specifications
- Multidimensional Performance: GO enhances both the strength and barrier properties of paper, potentially reducing the amount of pulp needed.
- Low Material Cost: The cost of using GO is competitive with current materials, contributing to an eco-friendly alternative without additional costs.
- Ease of Implementation: This technology requires no additional capital or operational expenditures, facilitating easy adoption within existing systems.
- Regulatory Compliance: The GO used is FDA and EPA approved, ensuring safety and compliance for food-contact applications.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 6, indicating a demonstrated prototype in a relevant environment. Further validation efforts, including partnerships with companies like Georgia Pacific, are planned to optimize and certify the technology for broader commercial use, ensuring it meets specific performance and regulatory requirements.
About GO-Eco
GO-Eco is a green technology startup and subsidiary of Chang Robotics that specializes in sustainable, PFAS-free alternatives for food packaging. Developed through a collaboration between Northwestern University researchers Dr. SonBinh Nguyen and Dr. Timothy Wei, the company leverages a proprietary graphene oxide nanomaterial. This material is integrated directly into paper fibers to create a non-toxic, recyclable, and compostable barrier that provides superior resistance to moisture, oils, and gases compared to traditional solutions. By enhancing the strength and barrier performance of paper-based products, the technology offers a functional replacement for conventional plastic and synthetic coatings that contain toxic forever chemicals.
The company addresses critical environmental and public health concerns by providing a scalable, cost-competitive material that helps eliminate PFAS and microplastics from the food supply chain. Designed for applications ranging from molded fiber tableware to corrugated cardboard, the technology aims to reduce environmental waste while maintaining high performance. GO-Eco is currently focused on scaling its production, completing comprehensive industry-standard evaluations, and securing FDA food-contact approval to bring its materials to the mass market. The venture has gained significant industry traction, engaging with numerous partners for pilot-scale production trials to facilitate the transition from laboratory research to commercial use.
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