EcoBarrier: Characterization of Barrier and Mechanical Properties in TEMPO Cellulose Nanofibre-Polypyrrole Films for Sustainable Coatings and Active Packaging

Aakash Malik

Date: from 02/15/2025 to 04/25/2025
Duration: 10 weeks
Home laboratory: I2E3 - Université du Québec à Trois Rivières, Canada
Host laboratory: LGP2 - Laboratoire de génie des procédés pour la bioraffinerie, les matériaux bio-sourcés et l’impression fonctionnelle UMR 5518 CNRS / Grenoble INP – UGA, France

This research focuses on advancing bio-based coatings by utilizing TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TEMPO CNF) combined with polypyrrole (PPy), targeting sustainable and active packaging solutions. The project addresses a key challenge in improving barrier properties, such as oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), crucial for applications like food packaging. By reducing reliance on petroleum-based coatings, this work supports the transition to a circular bioeconomy, fostering sustainable development. Collaboration between I2E3, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Canada, and LGP2, Université Grenoble Alpes, France, provides access to advanced tools and expertise in bio-based materials and nanocellulose. The expected outcomes include high-performance TEMPO CNF-PPy coatings for packaging, contributing to global sustainability goals while strengthening international research ties between France and Canada.