Design of smart packaging using novel processing technology

The University of Leeds is seeking a full-time designer for smart packaging using novel non-thermal processing technologies. The role focuses on developing sustainable biodegradable films that incorporate bioactive substances to enhance antimicrobial properties. Key techniques include electrospinning and the proposed 'needle-less electrospinning' for large-scale production. The project addresses environmental concerns related to plastic waste by exploring innovative packaging solutions.
Are you interested in sustainability and reduction of waste? This project is about understanding the mechanisms of smart packaging film and its various applications. Non-thermal processing technologies will be used to produce the sensors, and mechanical and functional properties will be tested.

The widespread use of plastic products has raised severe environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradable nature. Consequently, there is a growing interest in sustainable biodegradable films, which urgently need to serve as replacements for conventional packaging materials. Recent studies have identified that the integration of bioactive substances such as anthocyanins and essential oils into films enhances the antimicrobial properties.

Anthocyanins exhibit strong antioxidant activities. Meanwhile, essential oils, recognized as safe additives, have excellent antimicrobial activities and can effectively extend the shelf life of food products. However, most bioactive substances have the characteristics of instability and easy degradation, particularly with heat. Moreover, the preparation of multifunctional films typically involves solvent casting methods followed by oven drying, inevitably leading to the loss of bioactive substance efficacy, thereby compromising the anticipated functionality of the films.

To mitigate the drawbacks of bioactives, the use of novel non-thermal process is of utmost importance. Electrospinning, a non-thermal process, can encapsulate thermosensitive compounds within fibres while preserving their activity, producing nanofibers with high surface area-to-volume ratios and porosity. Current electrospinning techniques primarily include blend electrospinning, coaxial electrospinning, and emulsion electrospinning, with the latter two being more widely utilized due to their superior encapsulation capabilities. However, the low production yield of electrospinning is a primary factor limiting its large-scale industrial application. An novel technological concept, 'needle-less electrospinning', has been proposed, enabling large-scale production of nanofibers to meet the demand for novel packaging films.

For information on how to apply, please visit the institution website.