Project: Design of biocomposites based on nanocellulose and hemicelluloses for future packaging materials
In order to explore the possible use of hemicelluloses as barrier films in packaging materials different xylans and glucomannans were characterised with regard to their film forming properties. The possibilities to improve the mechanical performance of such hemicelluloses by reinforcement with small to moderate amounts of celluloses nanofibrils were also investigated. With decreased molecular weight as well as with decreased degree of substitution (arabinose groups) the mechanical properties of xylans films deteriorated. Addition of nanocellulose generally improved strength properties but had only marginal effects on the moisture sorption capacity. Oxygen permeability was not affected to a large extent. For spruce galactoglucomannans addition of a polyol is a necessity for obtaining cohesive selfsupporting films. The addition of nanocellulose made it possible to decrease the content of polyol substantially, thus largely improving mechanical properties of such films. In general the addition of nanocellulose to the hemicelluloses here studied improved film properties. However the use of wood hemicelluloses as barrier films still faces some challenges.
| Acronym | BioPack |
| Duration | 01/01/2008 - 31/12/2010 |
| Website | visit project website |
| Network | WOODWISDOM-NET |
| Call | JC1 |
Project partner
| Number | Name | Role | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chalmers University of Technology | Sweden | ||
| French National Institute for Agricultural Research | France | ||
| STFI-Packforsk AB | Coordinator | Sweden | |
| University of Helsinki | Finland |