“Green” Packaging with Nanoparticles
23 July 2007Nanotechnology is being used in the packaging industry as food suppliers are required to use more environmentally friendly plastics for their goods. The quest for green packaging has introduced bioplastics such as PLA, Polylactic acid. Instead of being developed from petroleum like conventional plastics, PLA is developed from corn. Thus, it is biodegradable and consumes less fossil fuel to produce than standard packaging.
However, it is not without its flaws. Specifically, PLA tends to be weaker than its petroleum-based counterpart. Conventional methods to strengthen the PLA have involved a tradeoff. While the package becomes stronger, it loses its transparency. Now nanoparticles are being used to remedy the process.
The nanoparticles that are used do not scatter light. They are added to the PLA and enable it to maintain its transparency while it becomes stronger. Laboratory testing has claimed results of not more than 10 percent haze at 5 percent loading. The material can withstand the rigors of wear and tear while maintaining clarity.
As supermarket chains and other food suppliers attempt to ramp up their compliance with environmental packaging requirements over the next few years, it is expected that nanoparticle-enhanced PLA will become part of the solution.
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It will look like this: “Green” Packaging with Nanoparticles
PLA has been the biggest breakthrough in green packaging for a long time. PLA started it all. It does have its drawbacks however. Stone paper (FiberStone™)from naturalsourceprinting.com is the next big thing! This paper made from stone/rocks has a carbon footprint that is 1/3 that of regular paper! Nanoparticles and PLA have seen some serious opposition but stone paper (FiberStone) is a great, controversy-free alternative. Paper, boxes, labels, catalogs and banners made from stone! Natural Source Printing (www.naturalsourceprinting.com) has it!
PS- Question: If stone paper is difficult to cut would you need special rock paper scissors to cut it? Tee-hee
Check it out friends!
If anyone wants to know more about printing/packaging with stone paper (FiberStone™) please contact Natural Source Printing (www.naturalsourceprinting.com).
FiberStone™ has a very low carbon footprint. P&G is looking at it, as well as others. If you have a ‘green’ product please talk to Natural Source Printing 866-551-4NSP
Will this fiberstone paper work for labels? I have an eco-friendly ‘green’ baby product line and other health and beauty products. I want to go with some eco friendly/sustainable packaging and my labels are made from an oil based film label material.
Stone paper certainly isn’t something new, though making labels out of it I have never heard of. Stone poweder has been used in paper since the Chinese invented paper.
I’d be curious to see how this works as a sticker!
Hi,
We ran across your site and i have some ideas to share about “Biodegradable Packaging Products” it offers eco friendly, non toxic and sustainable products. This products design to decompose quickly, completely and safe without leaving any residues. Its 100% no harm to human and enviroment.
Thanks, we’ll come back often.
Thanks again,
Oceans Green