We are seeking barrier materials and coatings for bio-based films that achieve the high moisture barrier requirements for packaging dry foods without sacrificing biodegradability. The barrier material should be able to be co-extruded with our core resins to form a skin layer that can anchor metal films or other functional coatings. Coatings that are applied as primer layers or top coats over metal are also acceptable. Possible partnerships include, but are not limited to, sponsored research, supplier agreement, consulting engagement or licensing.

Solutions of interest include :

• Highly-functional skin layers that can be co-extruded with our core resins in a blown or cast film line; skin layers are preferable to coating solutions
• Highly-functional coatings that can be applied as a primer under metal using roll-to-roll coating methodologies
• Highly-functional coatings that can be applied as a top coating over metal (see diagram)

• Achieves moisture barrier requirements of less than 0.3 grams per square meter per day under tropical conditions of 38C° and 90% relative humidity
• Maintains barrier throughout forming conditions in the VFFS process of bag-making
• Demonstrates strong adhesion to core layer or a suitable tie layer has been identified
• Biodegradable under home composting conditions (Modified EN 13432 or ASTM 6400 standards under ambient temperature conditions)
• Possible to metallize on top of skin layer or coating
• Resin solutions must be co-extrudable with PLA/PHA resin in blown film or cast film processing conditions
• Coating solutions must be applied using commercially-available roll coating processes

• Materials that do not require metallization
• Skin layer is preferable to coatings
• Coating technology that is solvent-free

• Solvent cast film technologies
• Skin layers made from PGA (Poly(glycolic acid) or G-polymer (PVOH technology)
• Nano-cellulose or nano-clay coatings unless there is some novel modification