High-barrier bio-based coating from epoxidized soybean oil for paper packaging
Revolutionary bio-based coating from epoxidized soybean oil enhances paper packaging with high moisture, oxygen, and grease resistance, matching conventional plastics. Supports recyclability and sustainability, with potential for antimicrobial functionality.
Overview
The high-barrier coating derived from epoxidized soybean oil is a groundbreaking solution designed to transform paper packaging. This bio-based polymer forms a dense network, providing exceptional resistance to moisture, oxygen, and grease, allowing paper-based materials to rival conventional plastics in terms of performance. Furthermore, the bio-based composition promotes recyclability and sustainability, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This innovative system can be enhanced with active compounds, such as natural antimicrobials, to further extend product shelf life and improve food safety.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Developed from epoxidized soybean oil, forming a crosslinked polymer network
- Enhances resistance to moisture, oxygen, and grease
- Compatible with existing coating and converting processes, supporting industrial scalability
- Can incorporate bioactive materials for antimicrobial properties
Performance:
- Confirmed grease resistance (KIT 12)
- Good mechanical strength (~20 N)
- Successfully applied onto paper substrates
- Current developments focus on moisture and oxygen barrier properties
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a lab environment. Ongoing efforts aim to refine the material’s moisture and oxygen barriers through alternative testing methods. Future plans include exploring lamination and extrusion processing routes to achieve final packaging formats. External collaborations are sought to enhance processing capabilities and further validate the material's performance.
About Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto
Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto is a comprehensive public university in southern Córdoba serving roughly 20,000 students and 1,800 faculty. Industry engagement is coordinated through a dedicated technology transfer and linkage office that brokers agreements and delivers contracted services, connecting companies to labs, specialized equipment, and field testing. On campus, the Incubadora de Empresas and a University SME Center provide mentoring, IP guidance, prototyping support, and no‑cost assistance in quality, design, and digitalization with municipal and business partners. Multiple joint institutes with CONICET embed national research capacity on campus, and the university works with the city and the regional tech cluster on a planned science and technology park to deepen commercialization pathways. Research draws support from CONICET and Argentina’s national research‑promotion programs, alongside provincial initiatives and international sponsors.
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