eep an eye on nanotechnology and nanocomposites in 2008.
Although the field of nanotechnology and nanocomposites is not a new one - CSIRO has been working on nanotechnology and packaging projects for greater than 10 years — it is an area that should be watched closely.
Nanotechnology and nanocomposites allow improved functionality and performance of plastic based materials.
The work conducted by CSIRO’s Sustainable Polymer Materials Theme involves the full range of plastics used in conventional packaging, as well as ‘green’ materials such as plastics made from cornstarch, PLA and bio-composites composed of cellulose fibre.
The Theme is also researching nanotechnology in coatings and paints, which could be used on the outside of packaging such as beverage containers, for example.
Nanotechnology holds the promise of improving mechanical properties of packaging materials, including their stiffness and toughness, and functional properties such as their barrier properties.
Properties including stabilisation against light, anti-microbial surfaces of packaging and deodourisation are in development.
Some of these technologies already exist but nanotechnology would improve each of the functionalities, explained CSIRO theme leader Dr Stuart Bateman.
When asked how important nanotechnology is to the world of packaging, Dr Bateman said it was one of the most important tools in a materials scientist’s toolkit.
“It has the potential to reap a lot of benefits, but whether or not it is fully tapped yet is another question.
“Nanotechnology offers the potential to provide benefits in performance and functionality to materials which will not be possible with conventional technology.”
Dr Bateman advised packaging manufacturers and suppliers to keep an eye on what nanotechnology has to offer them.
“The industry is receptive to new technology.
“Commercial realisation of nanotechnology is in its infancy but it has got huge potential,” he said.
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