Multifunctional Biopolyester additive replacing PFAS and plastic in paper packaging
The project goal is to develop a multi-functional biobased, biodegradable and non-toxic additive to replace fossil-based synthetic paper additives. The project aims to create novel bio-based polyesters to replace fossil-based synthetic and harmful additives in food contact paper packaging.
We aim to use fatty acid polyesters with various biobased diols/polyols (polysaccharides) to mimic the properties provided by polyacrylates, latex, PFAS, as paper additives. The envisioned additive is both biodegradable and recyclable, supporting closed-loop material use in packaging. For scalability, the applicant makes use of industrially available byproducts from agriculture (biomass), readily available in the Netherlands and Europe.
We aim to use fatty acid polyesters with various biobased diols/polyols (polysaccharides) to mimic the properties provided by polyacrylates, latex, PFAS, as paper additives. The envisioned additive is both biodegradable and recyclable, supporting closed-loop material use in packaging. For scalability, the applicant makes use of industrially available byproducts from agriculture (biomass), readily available in the Netherlands and Europe.
Project summary
Within the food packaging industry, there is a need for packaging material with specific properties like oil-based, liquid form, dry food, and hot beverages. Paper packaging could be a feasible option to replace harmful and polluting single-use plastic packaging. However, raw paper faces some inherent challenges, due to which it needs to be mixed with additives to be able to be used in food packaging and other applications. Therefore, current ‘paper packaging’ is often sized with and or coated with fossil-based, toxic, and non-biodegradable polymers: Up to 25% of paper consists of additives, used to enhance binding, water resistance, grease resistance, and printability. This makes this paper unsuitable to function as a safe and sustainable alternative to the SUP (Single-use plastic) packaging. These fossil-based additives are carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic (CMR chemicals). Their persistence in food packaging is driving urgent demand for safe, biodegradable alternatives. For this, we need a multi-functional bio-based formulation that addresses Fiber Binding & Strength, Water & Grease Resistance, Printability & Surface Properties and Biodegradability & Safety.