Zein-based biodegradable coatings for sustainable paper cups
Explore our zein-based coatings as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative to plastic for paper cups, offering effective moisture and oxygen barriers, microbial resistance, and full compostability.
Overview
Our zein-based coatings offer an innovative and environmentally friendly solution for single-use paper cups and lids. These coatings provide a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic linings, meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging. The zein coatings are designed to deliver comparable liquid barrier properties, microbial resistance, and thermal stability while being fully compostable, which aligns with industry goals to reduce plastic waste.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Hydrophobic and grease-proof films: Zein forms a protective barrier that resists moisture and oil, making it ideal for food packaging.
- Microbial resistance: Zein coatings inhibit microbial growth, ensuring product safety and integrity.
- Biodegradability: Fully compostable, these coatings reduce environmental impact.
- Barrier properties: Exhibits effective water vapor and oxygen transmission rates, comparable to conventional plastic coatings. Dual-layer coatings significantly improve water resistance, achieving Cobb 60 values as low as 4.88 g/m².
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, our zein-based coatings have been validated in lab settings and are ready for further development. We plan to optimize formulations and test real-world applications within a year, seeking partnerships for material supply, product development, and market validation.
About Fidelis Sustainable Products
Fidelis Sustainable Products Ltd. is a Canadian corporation focused on the development of state-of-the-art, food-grade zein extraction facilities. The company utilizes proprietary agri-technologies to manufacture high-value, plant-based polymers extracted from corn protein. Their process is designed to create sustainable, renewable products including zein proteins, xanthophylls, and improved cornmeal, offering an alternative to traditional ingredients used in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, confectionery, bio-medical, and biodegradable plastics. By applying specialized process expertise, the company aims to convert low-value corn feedstock into high-margin products that address current market supply shortages.
This initiative matters to partners and customers as it targets the expanding sustainable, circular economy by providing functional, bio-based additives and primary ingredients. The company is currently working on an execution plan to establish multiple production facilities, with a lead site in Saguenay, Quebec, for which they have secured an environmental permit. Their leadership team brings extensive experience in project engineering, large-scale industrial finance, and corn-based extraction technology development, aiming to deliver diversified, high-performance bio-products at scale to a variety of industrial applications.
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