Low-carbon seaweed-based barrier coating for sustainable food packaging
A sustainable seaweed-based barrier coating technology using Reactive Extrusion Extraction (REE) to produce biodegradable, recyclable food packaging materials with improved moisture barrier properties and a reduced carbon footprint.
Overview
The University of Connecticut has developed an innovative seaweed-based barrier coating technology aimed at revolutionizing food packaging. This solution utilizes Reactive Extrusion Extraction (REE) to derive alginate from carbon-negative sugar kelp, which is then used in roll-to-roll tape casting processes to coat paper substrates. The resulting coated paper offers a biodegradable and recyclable alternative to traditional polyethylene-based food wraps, with enhanced moisture barrier properties and a lower carbon footprint. This aligns with circular economy principles, promising significant environmental benefits.
Technical specifications
- Reactive Extrusion Extraction (REE): Utilizes a MiniLab twin-screw extruder to efficiently extract alginate from sugar kelp, achieving a 50% reduction in chemical usage and a 97% reduction in processing time compared to traditional methods.
- Barrier Properties: Coated paper exhibits over a 50% reduction in water vapor permeability compared to uncoated paper, demonstrating superior moisture barrier capabilities.
- Sustainability: The process eliminates drying energy and utilizes a renewable source, sugar kelp, to produce alginate, contributing to a low-carbon footprint.
- Paper Coating: Optimized coating conditions improve mechanical performance, making it comparable to uncoated paper substrates.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 3, with components validated in a laboratory setting. Future validation steps include optimizing the Reactive Extrusion Extraction parameters, refining coating conditions, and conducting pilot-scale applications to ensure process efficiency and product consistency.
About University of Connecticut
UConn is a comprehensive public research university and the state’s flagship, with its main campus in Storrs and an academic medical center in Farmington. Industry engages through UConn Tech Park—anchored by the Innovation Partnership Building—with shared labs, pilot‑scale testbeds, and advanced prototyping for collaborators. Integration with UConn Health enables clinical collaborations and translation, while Hartford and Stamford campuses connect companies to talent along the New York–Boston corridor; a statewide extension network supports technology adoption. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, USDA, and DOD. A dedicated technology commercialization office and the Technology Incubation Program support IP, licensing, and startup incubation across multiple sites.
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