Dr. Keith Vorst, a professor at Iowa State University and director of the ISU Polymer and Food Conservation Alliance, stated that research is vigorously promoting the use of new, more environmentally friendly materials to replace traditional polymers: post use recyclables (PCR) and more environmentally friendly alternatives from food waste, such as biofillers.Biological fillers are easy to obtain and can minimize the use of the first layer of bioplastics,Using them can saveSave energy costs and reduce temperatureIndoor gas emissions.If PCR and biological fillers can be used to package products, it can also reduce business costs.

based onThe long-standing partnership between MOCON and Iowa State University (ISU) comes fromExperts from ISURecently seeking MOCONWith the support of the company, we will jointly promote the development of energy efficiency and sustainable packaging in the plastic industry.

Agricultural by-products such as coffee grounds, rice husks, and cotton stalks have become ideal biological fillers due to their low cost, low density, and abundant yield. Dr. Vorst and his team studied methods for reusing these waste materials in plastic manufacturing. By combining PCR and specially processed biomass as fillers in plastic production, the actual plastic content required for each product is reduced, thereby reducing overall oil consumption.

However, currently biological fillers only account for a small portion of sustainable packaging. Sustainable packaging typically involves a 50/50 combination of PCR and 'raw plastic'. Combining materials from previously used products has given new life to old packaging, achieving the goals of recycling, resource conservation, and reducing carbon emissions. This approach supports the circular economy by promoting the reuse of materials, minimizing the demand for raw plastics, and creating a more sustainable future for manufacturers and consumers.

The above two images test the performance of bottles composed of consumer plastic and food and agricultural by-products transferred from landfills. It produces 50/50 PCR bottles containing varying concentrations (1% to 5%) of biological fillers. Vorst stated that brand owners initially did not like to recycle packaging, as they believed consumers would not pay for it. But now they are actively seeking these more environmentally friendly packaging materials because consumers believe they are more environmentally friendly.

But new questions arise, if PCR and biological fillers are added to reduce the amount of raw plastic in these bottles, will this new green packaging be sturdy? Can its barrier properties prevent liquids from penetrating at the same speed? Will it decompose due to any problems?

Therefore, products manufactured using this new method must still meet strict functional requirements, especially in applications such as food packaging,Understanding the characteristics of agricultural waste plastic formulas is crucial forMaintaining freshness during the shelf life of a product is crucial.MOCON's advanced permeability testing instruments can evaluate the barrier performance of its new plastic formulations, ensuring compliance with strict packaging standards and helping ISU drive positive change.

Promising energy conservation, waste reduction, and environmental impact reduction of plastics,This collaborationThe potential impact is profound.Not only does it promote sustainable development of the environment, but it also provides valuable research experience for university students, preparing them for promoting future green packaging innovation. MOCON is proud to contribute to the development of a sustainable environment with our customers and work together towards a more sustainable packaging future.