Single-step cellulose nanofibril coating for sustainable paper packaging
A novel single-step process coats cellulose nanofibrils on paper, creating recyclable, environmentally friendly packaging with superior barrier properties against oil, grease, and gases. Scalable with existing equipment, this method shows promise for sustainable packaging solutions.
Overview
This innovative solution involves a single-step process for coating cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) onto paper, resulting in recyclable and sustainable packaging materials. These coatings provide excellent barriers against oil, grease, and gas, making them ideal for applications where sustainability and performance are crucial. The process is designed to be scalable and uses existing papermaking equipment, offering a practical route to mass production.
Technical specifications
- Single-step CNF coating process: Utilizes the unique properties of CNFs to achieve functional coat weights from 12-28 gsm.
- Barrier properties: Achieves air/oxygen resistance with values reaching the instrument maximum of 5,000 Gurley-s, oil/grease resistance at test maximum levels, and significantly reduced water uptake compared to untreated paper.
- Compatibility with existing equipment: Designed for use with standard paper coating lines, facilitating easy integration into current manufacturing processes.
- Environmentally friendly: Coatings are fully recyclable and consume no additional energy compared to traditional papermaking.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been demonstrated at the laboratory level. Future plans include pilot-scale trials to optimize mass production parameters, with a focus on enhancing water barrier properties and ensuring compatibility with recycling and composting processes. The project seeks partnerships to support further development and scaling efforts.
About University of Maine
The University of Maine is a comprehensive public research university and the state’s flagship, coupling broad academic depth with an applied, industry‑oriented culture. On campus, companies access large‑scale prototyping facilities, pilot‑scale lines, and specialized test tanks that move concepts toward deployable systems. A statewide Cooperative Extension and field sites connect R&D teams to real‑world conditions across Maine’s coastal, forested, and cold‑weather settings, while industry liaisons streamline sponsored research. Funding comes from competitive federal sources such as the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, while a centralized tech transfer office supports IP, licensing, SBIR/STTR, and startup formation.
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