Recyclable polyelectrolyte-based water and grease barrier coating for paper
A polyelectrolyte complex coating delivers high-performance water and grease barriers for paper using environmentally friendly, water-based materials. Formulated from polyethyleneimine (PEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), it can be applied using commercial coating techniques such as roll-to-roll, dipping, or spraying. The transparent, recyclable coating targets strong barrier performance at very low thickness.
Overview
A recyclable polyelectrolyte-based coating enhances water and grease resistance in paper and cardboard materials. The coating is formulated from polyethyleneimine (PEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and is water-based and environmentally benign. It is designed to provide high barrier performance while maintaining recyclability.
Technical specifications
- Composition: Polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) formed from PEI and PAA.
- Application Methods: Roll-to-roll processing, dipping, or spraying.
- Performance: Achieves an undetectable oxygen transmission rate (OTR < 0.005 cc/m2/day) at below one micron thickness on PET film, with excellent grease resistance.
- Curing Process: Uses a citric acid buffer to increase charge density and enhance complexation.
- Enhancements: Incorporation of clay and covalent crosslinking can improve moisture barrier properties.
- Transparency and Recyclability: Remains transparent and fully recyclable.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 4, indicating laboratory validation. Future work includes developing a thin, transparent, environmentally friendly barrier coating for paper/cardboard with targeted performance metrics.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
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