Poly (1,4-cyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate-co-isophthalate) (PCTA) is an important copolyester that has been widely used in cosmetic containers, home appliances, and medical packaging. Currently, PCTA is manufactured via polycondensation of cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM), which is industrially produced from petroleum-derived xylene. To reduce the reliance on fossil energy, a more sustainable alternative method is needed. Recently, a research team led by Prof. Zhang Tao, Prof. Wang Aiqin and … Continue reading Scientists to propose new method for sustainable production of copolyester monomers with biomass

Cups, cartons and food wrappers made of paper might seem like they would be biodegradable, but many contain a plastic coating that can’t be composted. Although plastic-free, sustainable paper products are available, they often let grease and oil pass through, weakening the paper and creating a mess. Today, scientists report they have developed a degradable polymer coating that can block this seepage and could lead … Continue reading Degradable coatings for compostable paper food packaging block grease and oil

Due to the global efforts to meet sustainability standards, many countries are currently looking to replace concrete with wood in buildings. France, for example, will require that all new public buildings will be made from at least 50 percent wood or other sustainable materials starting in 2022. Because wood is prone to degradation when exposed to sunlight and moisture, protective coatings can help bring wood into wider use. Researchers … Continue reading Researchers turn non-toxic residue into coating that resists abrasion, stain and sunlight

Due to the global efforts to meet sustainability standards, many countries are currently looking to replace concrete with wood in buildings. France, for example, will require that all new public buildings will be made from at least 50 percent wood or other sustainable materials starting in 2022.   Because wood is prone to degradation when exposed to sunlight and moisture, protective coatings can help bring wood into wider use. Researchers at Aalto University have used lignin, a natural polymer abundant in wood and other plant … Continue reading Bio-based coating for wood outperforms traditional synthetic options

For millennia, silver has been utilized for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Although its use as a disinfectant is widely known, the effects of silver’s interaction with bacteria on the silver itself are not well understood. As antibiotic-resistant bacteria become more and more prevalent, silver has seen steep growth in its use in things like antibacterial coatings. Still, the complex chain of events that lead … Continue reading Silver Attacks Bacteria, Gets ‘Consumed’ | Impacts of antibacterial interactions on silver affect applications

The amount of plastic waste increases every year. Some of this waste is due to plastic packaging used to protect food. As part of the “BioActiveMaterials” project, researchers at the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed an eco-friendly coating for paper packaging. With this, not only is plastic saved, but the coating of plant-based proteins and waxes also extends the shelf life of the food. After use, the … Continue reading Bioactive paper coatings to replace plastic for packaging foods