 NMP-2007-2.4-3 Renewable materials for functional packaging applications
Technical content / scope: Innovative renewable materials (e. g. wood or vegetable based) and their ecoefficient processing are required to provide novel entirely-renewable functional packaging solutions for a global market. Important drivers for innovation using life-cycle approaches in these renewable packaging materials are cost reduction, improved functionality, higher flexibility and prolonged shelf life of packaged consumer goods like seafood by improved barrier (e.g. active, antimicrobial, permselective, intelligent adaptive) performance. Smart features such as displays or sensors can be incorporated into packaging materials using ink and printing technologies that allow for low production costs. The focus should be on the design and processing of innovative, renewable packaging materials as well as on the interactions between different types of renewable materials, e.g. in multilayer packaging, using the latest developments in nanotechnology. Special emphasis should be put on material performance (e.g. functionality, surface strength, moldability, chemical and microbiological safety, biodegradability, hydrostability, moisture resistance and microbiological immunity). Materials processing should display low emissions, reduce the use of chemicals, but enhance the use of “green” biotechnological alternatives in the manufacture and treatment of packaging materials and printing inks.
Funding scheme: Small or medium-scale focused research projects.
Special features: Industrial participation is required.
Expected impact(s): From product storage and distribution to waste disposal and environmental degradation of packaging materials. Packaging is a high volume business close to the consumer where demands for a sustainable transformation will continue to increase. A contribution towards the overall target of reducing greenhouse gases and the dependency on petroleum resources is expected.
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