What if plastic packaging could be made from milk?
Scientists at Flinders University have developed a biodegradable film using milk protein and other natural materials that decomposes in soil in around 13 weeks.
The material was developed as part of ongoing efforts to find alternatives to conventional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to break down and often contribute to pollution and microplastic waste.
In a study published in Polymers, researchers created a thin, flexible film using calcium caseinate, a commercially available form of casein, the primary protein found in milk.
The researchers said the findings demonstrate how biopolymers and natural clay can be combined to create eco-friendly packaging.
“We were experimenting with caseinates to make milk-based nanofibers and found that it could be used to cast polymers similar to common packaging materials,” said researcher Nikolay Estiven Gomez Mesa.
“From there, we began exploring ways to improve their properties by introducing natural and abundant components such as starch, and also a biodegradable polymer with remarkable mechanical features.”
Professor Alis Yovana Pataquiva-Mateus said developing alternatives to conventional plastic packaging will require contributions from both researchers and consumers.
“Everyone can play a part in reducing their plastic use, and finding biodegradable polymer alternatives is an important part of science, helping to find solutions for industry, consumers, and the environment,” she said.
“Most of our single-use plastic comes from food packaging, so these sorts of options should be explored further and join the circular economy revolution to conserve resources.”
The researchers say further development is needed before the material can be commercialised. Still, they believe it shows potential as a lower-impact alternative for food packaging and other single-use plastic applications.
