Nanotechnology as a strategy for plastics in a circular economy

September 9, 2024

In a world increasingly conscious of environmental impact, industries that rely heavily on plastic materials face significant challenges. Plastics can be found in everything from packaging to consumer electronics. However, the environmental consequences of plastic waste are driving the sector towards a much-needed transformation.

The European strategy for plastics in a circular economy embraces an ambitious approach to enhance the recyclability of plastic packaging and provides a strong response to the issue of microplastics, a major contributor to marine pollution. The current design, production, use, and disposal of plastics have harmful effects on our society, economy, and environment.

Supported by the EU, projects such as FlexFunction2Sustain and Convert2Green are creating a sustainable open innovation ecosystem. This ecosystem helps small industries bring innovative products to market faster, with a focus on new polymer formulations, such as bio-based and biodegradable plastics.

INL researchers have developed a new water-repellent coating for paper, making it suitable for contact with foods that have higher water and fat content.

INL researcher Victor Souza explains that their lab is developing “sustainable, smart products that can drastically reduce the environmental footprint of industries that rely on plastics.” The goal is to make these materials both high-performing and eco-friendly.

Pastrana’s group is addressing the challenge of plastic waste by developing nano-functionalised flexible plastic and paper materials. Victor explains, “At INL, we are working with ultrasonic technology and a spray coater. Instead of using polyethylene or polypropylene, we use bio-based polymers to create an environmentally friendly material that is recyclable or compostable.”

With this technology, INL researchers have created “a hydrophobic paper, which means that when water is placed on our coated paper, it will not be absorbed because of the water-repellent coating. This new material can now be used in contact with food that has higher water and fat content.”

Key objectives of these EU-funded projects include upgrading technical facilities for recyclable polymers, validating these upgrades in industrial settings, and offering comprehensive innovation services tailored to industry needs. Researchers at INL are building a network to support the industry’s shift toward sustainability, using nanotechnology as a key solution.