Biodegradable sprayable barrier coatings for fiber-based packaging
Develop a biodegradable, sprayable barrier coating for fiber-based packaging using polyelectrolyte complexes. The coating targets high gas and moisture resistance with environmentally friendly, generally regarded as safe (GRAS) components, and is designed to be fully recyclable. Formulation uses chitosan and pectin, with riboflavin crosslinking and clay nanoplatelets to improve moisture barrier performance.
Overview
The biodegradable sprayable barrier coatings being developed for fiber-based packaging use a polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) coating intended to be environmentally friendly and fully recyclable. The coating is designed to provide gas and moisture barrier performance using naturally occurring materials generally regarded as safe (GRAS). The primary components include chitosan and pectin, with enhancements through crosslinking using bio-based chemistry such as riboflavin, and the incorporation of clay nanoplatelets to improve moisture resistance. This technology is positioned for sustainable packaging applications as an alternative to conventional barrier systems.
Technical specifications
- Composition: Polyelectrolyte complex based on chitosan and pectin
- Barrier Properties: Targets oxygen transmission rate (OTR) at undetectable levels (<0.005 cc/m2/day) and aims for moisture vapor transmission rates (MVTR) below 0.3 g/m2/day
- Application Method: Designed for sprayable application on fiber-based materials
- Crosslinking and Additives: Uses riboflavin for crosslinking and clay nanoplatelets to enhance moisture barrier properties
- Environmentally Friendly: Formulated from biodegradable and GRAS materials to support full recyclability
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, with ongoing development and validation efforts focused on optimizing the formulation and application methods. Future validation plans include pilot coating trials to refine performance and support commercialization.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
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