Project R-13244

Understanding nanoparticle leaching from biodegradable nanocomposites in consumer and post-consumer environments: towards innovative, sustainable and safe packaging materials. (Research)

Nanoparticles are widely recognized to create added value in packaging, exemplified by the antimicrobial properties of silver and titania nanocomposites, improving food quality, shelf life and even fighting SARS-CoV-2. However, public concern related to harmful effects on human health and the environment leads to restrictive legislation. The main obstacle hampering widespread applicability is the lack of generalistic insights in nanoparticle leaching mechanisms and the circumstances in which they occur. The situation is even more precarious when innovative active packaging based on biodegradable polymers is targeted. This research project aims to disentangle dissolution, diffusion and desorption-based leaching routes, supported by analytical techniques capable of distinguishing nanoparticles in trace amounts (SP-ICP-MS). Hereto, a strategy based on realistic polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) model matrices is designed in which the influence of various nanoparticle and host matrix properties on the leaching extent will be evaluated, both in intact nanocomposites as in 'worst-case' post-consumer environments, involving weathering conditions, mechanical recycling unit operations up to partial biodegradation of the PHA matrix. The findings are expected to impact the evaluation methods of nanocomposite materials in general, and to determine whether the inclusion of nanoparticles in biodegradable polymers is safe for use in packaging applications and expected end-of-life scenarios.

01 November 2022 - 31 October 2026