Sustainable cellulose-protein thermoplastic material for biobased film applications
A novel cellulose-protein thermoplastic material using ultrasonic welding for enhanced dry-processing into biobased films, offering improved mechanical properties and sustainability over traditional methods.
Overview
This innovative solution introduces a cellulose-protein thermoplastic material designed for sustainable production of biobased films through dry-processing methods such as extrusion and compression-molding. By leveraging ultrasonic welding technology, this material addresses common challenges in biobased film production, such as lengthy drying times and high solvent usage, while enhancing mechanical strength and environmental sustainability.
Technical specifications
- Ultrasonic welding technology: Utilizes high-frequency vibrations to fuse cellulose and protein, forming a strong, insoluble polymeric network.
- Material Characteristics: Exhibits superior onset degradation temperature, tensile strength, and Young's modulus. Improved hydrophobicity and opacity with reduced water vapor and oxygen transmission rates.
- Production Process: Involves sourcing high-purity cellulose and proteins from waste materials, forming thermoplastic components, and employing ultrasonic welding for physical crosslinking.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment and is preparing for more extensive testing, including extrusion and compression-molding evaluations.
About McGill University
McGill University is a comprehensive public research university in Montréal, Québec, known for an international community and a research‑intensive culture. Faculty and industry collaborate through shared core facilities and co‑located labs across downtown and hospital sites, with integration into a major hospital system enabling clinical research and translation. Proximity to Montréal’s established industry clusters and a vibrant innovation district give companies access to talent, pilots, and testbeds. Research is supported by Canada’s Tri‑Agency and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial and philanthropic sources. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines contracting and IP, supports licensing and sponsored research, and connects partners to startups and entrepreneurship resources.
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