High barrier cellulose/pla films using in-situ polymerisation
Innovative cellulose/PLA films with exceptional water vapour barrier properties are comparable to HDPE, achieved through in-situ polymerisation. Ideal for food packaging, offering flexibility, heat tolerance, and biodegradability with potential for sustainable production.
Overview
Monash University has developed a cutting-edge cellulose/PLA composite film using an in-situ polymerisation technique that achieves exceptional water vapour barrier properties. This innovative material is ideal for food packaging applications, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic films. The film's water vapour transmission rate is as low as 5.4 g/m²·day, comparable to HDPE and approaching polypropylene standards, making it a formidable bio-based competitor in the market. Additionally, the film is flexible, heat-tolerant, and visually similar to white paper, enhancing its appeal for consumer packaging.
Technical specifications
- In-situ polymerisation: Lactide monomer absorbs into nanocellulose film pores and polymerises, creating a strong barrier.
- Water vapour transmission rate: Achieves 5.4 g/m²·day, the lowest reported for bio-based fibrous composites.
- Heat sealable: Compatible with heat sealing technologies at 80-140 °C.
- Sustainable materials: Future plans to use food-safe polymerisation catalysts and non-toxic solvents such as ethanol or ethyl acetate.
- Production methods: Exploring scalable production methods, including reel-reel processing and spray deposition.
- Biodegradability: Enhanced by enzymatic polymerisation, supporting eco-friendly disposal.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has demonstrated promising prototype capabilities. Future development focuses on optimizing for commercial-scale production, ensuring food safety, and enhancing sustainability through Monash University's BioPRIA facilities.
About Monash University, Melbourne
Monash University is a comprehensive public research university and one of Australia’s largest, known for scale, interdisciplinarity, and an applied orientation. Its Melbourne-based technology precinct brings together university laboratories, pilot-scale and prototyping suites, and company R&D groups alongside government research organizations to enable co-development and rapid iteration. Integration with a major hospital network supports clinical trials and translation, while structured industry placements and doctoral partnerships create a robust talent pipeline for corporate R&D. Research is backed by competitive funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and state and federal programs that incentivize industry collaboration. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation, with pathways to incubation and investment within the precinct.
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