Research project

PRIN 2017 - 2017B7MMJ5 - MiFlower - Andrea Sorrentino (DCM.AD006.159)

Thematic area

Chemical sciences and materials technology

Project area

Chimica e tecnologia dei materiali (DCM.AD006)

Structure responsible for the research project

Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)

Other structures collaborating in the research project

Project manager

ANDREA SORRENTINO
Phone number: +390817758805
Email: andrea.sorrentino@cnr.it

Abstract

This project aims to design and develop an active bio-based packaging technology. New multifunctional inorganic carriers will be synthetized to include several active principles within a biodegradable composite material. The inorganic carriers will be characterized by a novel three-dimensional flower-like structure formally obtained by combining natural halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) with layered double hydroxides (LDHs). This particular structure will allow to use a combination of plant extracts, active molecules, physical agents and enzyme. A new bio-based polymer composite will be developed by combining natural polymers with the HNTs@LDH nano-hybrids. The thermal and mechanical properties will be tuned by adding a natural-plasticizing agent chemical bonded to the LDH@HNT carriers. The transport properties for gas and vapors in the composites will be also characterized and optimized. Some types of fresh fruits and vegetables (with a special attention to the regional/local products) will be
packaged in the manufactured objects and analyzed in terms of shelf-life, nutritional quality and safety. The biodegradability and the environmental impact of the objects obtained will be tested.

Start date of activity

01/09/2019

Keywords

organic-inorganic hybrids, drug-food interactions, Food packaging

Last update: 25/08/2025