Superhydrophobic PET additives and coatings for superior moisture barrier packaging
University of North Texas proprietary superhydrophobic materials adapted as PET additives or coatings to deliver superior moisture-barrier performance for food packaging. Targets extended shelf life of moisture-sensitive products in PET containers with potential oxygen-filtering benefits.
Overview
This technology leverages proprietary superhydrophobic organic and metal-organic materials from the University of North Texas, adapted as additives or coatings for PET substrates used in food packaging. The materials are designed to repel water and resist moisture transmission, addressing a critical need for protecting moisture-sensitive food products stored in PET-based containers. In addition to moisture resistance, the additives are expected to provide oxygen-filtering capability, which can further extend product shelf life. The formulations are inert and safe for food contact, making them suitable for direct application in consumer packaging.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Superhydrophobic organic and metal-organic materials with contact angles around 160 degrees, causing more than 90 percent of water droplets to bounce away from the surface
- Hybrid material formats: trace additives at 0.1 to 5 percent loading in PET, or thin-film coatings applied to preforms and finished PET containers
- Thermal stability exceeding 240 to 300 degrees Celsius, with tolerance up to 380 degrees Celsius for pre-processing additive incorporation
- Orthogonal deposition of thin coatings on PET surfaces without compromising substrate integrity
- Tunable solubility for additive processing and tunable mechanical strength for coatings, adjustable through chemical modification
- Inert and food-contact-safe chemistry
- Potential oxygen-filtering ability contributing to extended shelf life
Technology readiness level
The underlying superhydrophobic materials have been validated in related applications, including greenhouse gas adsorption systems and hybrid adsorbents on carbon and metal substrates. Prior demonstrations include in-situ incorporation of additives into plastic polymers, biocompatible edible polymers, and biomass-derived materials. Direct validation on PET substrates under manufacturing conditions is the next required step, which the research team seeks to advance through collaboration with an industry partner experienced in PET processing and packaging production.
About University of North Texas
The University of North Texas is a comprehensive public research university in Denton, part of the UNT System, serving a large and diverse student body with broad academic programs. A dedicated research campus brings engineering and science together with shared user facilities, advanced instrumentation, prototyping spaces, and technology transfer support that speed collaboration with industry. Its Dallas–Fort Worth location offers ready access to major corporate R&D, suppliers, and testing partners, supported by project-based engagements, internships, and sponsored capstones. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, and Department of Energy, alongside state and industry support.
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