BIOPROCESS project develops bioplastics for packaging

In Spain, the use of bioplastics in packaging applications is emerging as a more sustainable alternative to conventional non-biodegradable plastics derived from fossil sources. However, further research is needed to ensure that biodegradable and/or compostable plastics can meet the requirements to preserve and extend the shelf life of packaged products.

In this context, the BIOPROCESS project, led by AIMPLAS, aims to enhance the mechanical and barrier properties of bioplastics to produce films for high-performance, flexible packaging in various sectors, including food, cosmetics, personal hygiene, detergents, and cleaning products. The research involves two collaborating companies: Potato Bioplastics, a manufacturer of new bioplastics from renewable sources, and Gaviplas, a flexible film manufacturer.

In the BIOPROCESS project, AIMPLAS has applied Machine Direction Orientation (MDO) extrusion technology with various commercial bioplastics to produce these flexible biodegradable and/or compostable films. It has also developed new formulations of natural polymers, such as polysaccharides and animal and plant proteins, to study the modification of their mechanical and barrier properties when processed through non-oriented sheet extrusion and MDO extrusion.

These naturally sourced materials may come from algae, corn or potato starch, gelatins, or proteins, and in many cases are by-products of various industries, adding value to these low-cost materials and making them good candidates for use in sustainable packaging applications.