Lignin-based bionanocomposites for active and rigid packaging applications
Bio-based rigid packaging materials made from lignin nanoparticles and natural antimicrobial agents, offering antibacterial, anti-UV, and antioxidant properties. These sustainable composites replace conventional plastics in food and pharmaceutical packaging while extending shelf life and reducing plastic waste.
Overview
This project develops active and rigid packaging products derived from bioproducts sourced from crop, forest, and agricultural industries. The solution combines lignin-based nanoparticles with natural antimicrobial agents, biocides, and bio-sourced materials to produce eco-friendly packaging with antibacterial, anti-UV, and antioxidant functionality. By actively modifying the internal packaging environment, these materials continuously interact with food or pharmaceutical products over their shelf life, improving safety and reducing spoilage-related waste. The approach addresses growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics while delivering enhanced functional performance.
Technical specifications
Key features and capabilities:
- Lignin particles and nanoparticles produced in multiple shapes (nanosphere, triangular, and others) through various extraction routes to achieve diverse functional properties
- Reinforcement of thermoplastic polymer matrices including HDPE, PP, and PET at different loadings
- Melt-compounding extrusion process for thermoplastic material production
- Masterbatch production for downstream plastics processing
- Injection molding capability for producing rigid plastic packaging with targeted properties
- Comprehensive characterization of mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties
- Shelf-life extension validation for both food and drug products
- Customizable compositions, forms, and shapes to suit varied packaging requirements
Material benefits:
- Renewability and biodegradability derived from agricultural and forestry waste streams
- Biocompatibility suitable for food contact and pharmaceutical applications
- Low cost through utilization of abundant bio-sourced feedstocks
- Tailorable surface properties enabling specific functional performance
- Compatibility with standard manufacturing platforms including extrusion and injection molding
Technology readiness level
The project covers the full development pathway from bio-derived material selection through to packaging product validation. Current and planned activities include detailed characterization of agricultural waste feedstocks, extraction of lignin particles and nanoparticles in multiple forms, incorporation into polymer matrices at various concentrations, masterbatch production, and injection molding of rigid plastics with antibacterial, anti-UV, and antioxidant properties. Mechanical, rheological, and thermal characterization of produced specimens is underway alongside shelf-life extension studies for food and drug products. The technology targets direct application in the packaging industry and is designed for production on standard manufacturing platforms.
About University Mohammed VI Polytechnic
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a Moroccan research university headquartered in Benguerir, focused on applied, industry-facing science and engineering with a pan-African mission. The main campus integrates laboratories with testbeds, maker spaces, and demonstration sites, enabling companies to prototype and validate solutions in operational environments. Close alignment with OCP Group provides access to industrial facilities, data, and talent pipelines, while an on-campus innovation district supports co-location of startups and corporate R&D. Research is supported by Moroccan national programs and competitive international funding. A dedicated technology transfer office and venture mechanisms streamline IP protection, licensing, and new venture creation.
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