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International projects
Innovative bio-based biodeGradable Recyclable safE and cirCular fooOd packing
Research activity
| Code | Science | Field | Subfield |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.04.03 | Engineering sciences and technologies | Materials science and technology | Polymer materials |
| Code | Science | Field |
|---|---|---|
| T150 | Technological sciences | Material technology |
Keywords
Chemical engineering, materials engineering, biodegradable packaging, recyclability, sustainability, food packaging, PLA copolymers
Organisations (1) , Researchers (4)
0795 University ob Maribor, Faculty of mechanical engineering
| no. | Code | Name and surname | Research area | Role | Period | No. of publicationsNo. of publications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 19753 | Textile and leather | Head | 2025 | 599 | |
| 2. | 39302 | Textile and leather | Researcher | 2025 | 33 | |
| 3. | 35476 | Textile and leather | Researcher | 2025 | 128 | |
| 4. | 34450 | Chemistry | Researcher | 2025 | 78 |
Abstract
GRECO aims to demonstrate the life cycle and techno-economic feasibility of greener & safer bioplastics value chains for the food packaging sector, based on a safe and sustainable by design (SSbD) strategy. To this aim, innovative bio-based, biodegradable, and recyclable packaging based on new PLA copolymers, coatings, additives and catalysts accompanied by surface treatments will be produced. Regulatory compliance (REACH, CLP, FCMs Reg., …) will be demonstrated while contributions to new or modified standards and proper labelling will be proposed. Digital tools will drive the developments from the simulation and modelling scopes, and social sciences and humanities (SSH) will provide relevant information related to social perception and acceptance. All of them will pave the way to facilitate the introduction of the new products into the packaging market sector and our society. Contribution to the Plastics Strategy, the Single-use Plastics Directive (SUP) and the EU Circular Economy Action plan (CEAP) will be ensured.
Significance for science
GRECO will introduce the food packaging industry to groundbreaking bio-based, SSbD, and fully circular PLA-based materials, that meet the application needs. These alternatives aim to replace fossil-based, complex, and multimaterial structures prevalent in the industry, improving packaging end-of-life through biodegradation in various environments like industrial and home compostability, anaerobic, marine, and soil. The design will ensure their recyclability and avoiding of chemical interactions that hinder overall biodegradation.