ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING MATERIAL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREFOR

Smart overview of the Invention

The invention introduces an eco-friendly packaging material designed to be highly recyclable and biodegradable, decomposing effectively in both soil and ocean environments. This material features a multi-layer structure, including a surface coating layer, two fibrous layers, and a sealing coating layer. These components provide excellent barrier properties against oxygen and moisture, along with enhanced printability, antifouling, water resistance, and sealing capabilities.

Technical Background

Traditional packaging materials often include layers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), aluminum foil, or nylon, which are difficult to recycle and take a long time to decompose. Recent developments have focused on biodegradable alternatives like polylactic acid (PLA) combined with recyclable paper. However, these alternatives often suffer from poor barrier and sealing properties, limiting their effectiveness for packaging food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Solution Description

The proposed packaging material comprises a surface coating layer that may include water-based resins like acrylic or urethane, a first fibrous layer with a primer of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or modified starch, and a second fibrous layer with a specific density. Additionally, a sealing coating layer composed of materials such as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is included. A biodegradable barrier layer may also be interposed between the fibrous layers to enhance oxygen and moisture barrier properties.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process involves coating a surface solution on one side of a fibrous substrate to form the first fibrous film and applying a sealing solution to create the second fibrous film. These films are then laminated together. A barrier film can be added between these fibrous films for additional protection. The process utilizes common techniques like lamination and extrusion coating, ensuring high productivity and efficient production.

Advantages

This packaging material offers superior recyclability due to its water-based resin components and paper-based fibrous layers. It decomposes efficiently in natural environments while maintaining strong barrier properties against oxygen and moisture. Its construction using established manufacturing methods ensures excellent processability and productivity. Consequently, this material is well-suited for packaging diverse products such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial goods.