Advanced Sustainable Paper Packaging
Paper was one of the original sustainable methods to package perishable items, but plastics replaced it due to their superior barrier properties for water and air. New coatings are needed for paper to improve its barrier properties while remaining a sustainable packaging material.
We collaborate with chemical engineers to understand how to improve dispersion coatings of latex and pigments. Additionally, our group synthesizes and develops new polymers and sustainable materials that advance paper-based packaging.
We are currently researching:
Coating systems that do not crack during folding.
Sustainable dispersion coatings we improved oxygen and water barrier properties.
Modified cellulose nanomaterials for coating and packaging applications.
Selected Publications