To achieve sustainable packaging that allows food to be preserved in optimal conditions for longer, AIMPLAS, Technological Institute of Plastic, coordinates the project REFUCOAT. Through the research that will be carried out in the project, an innovative material based on biopolymers and water and oxygen barrier coatings will be developed that will replace those currently used in food packaging in the form of films and trays.
Specifically, polyglycolic acid (PGA) will be combined with modified silica oxide to formulate a hybrid coating that has barrier properties to oxygen and water vapor. On the other hand, a new grade of PLA will be developed starting from corn residues, which presents better barrier values to water vapor, than commercial grades. These developments will combine to give rise to recyclable packaging for chicken, cereals and snacks.
