A research group at the University of Alicante is developing activated carbon packaging out of waste materials, such as almond shells and olive pits. The result is recyclable and biodegradable packaging that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
Photo: University of Alicante.
The project, ENCAR2CEL, has received 125,313 euros in funds from the Valencian Innovation Agency (IVACE+i Innovación) and builds on the results of the previous ENCARBIO project, which developed methods to produce activated carbon from biomass waste. The technology has now reached a TRL 7 level of development.
Based on these results, and in collaboration with the Packaging, Transport, and Logistics Technology Centre (ITENE), researchers will develop the final prototype. This packaging will increase the shelf life of packaged food products, avoiding food waste. It will be a sustainable packaging alternative based on a recyclable and biodegradable material.
Moreover, according to the researchers, the packaging is made from almond and olive waste, contributing to its reuse.
The ENCAR2CEL team, formed by Diego Cazorla Amorós, Emilia Morallón, Ángel Berenguer Murcia, and a new researcher, uses activated carbon from biomass waste to obtain active cellulose-based packaging that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by adsorbing the molecules they produce during the ripening process, which accelerates their deterioration.
According to the UA researchers, ENCAR2CEL "will represent a significant technological advance for cellulose-based packaging. It will provide an innovative solution to the packaging sector based on high-added value products from waste and materials in line with European packaging and packaging waste regulations."
For more information:
Universidad de Alicante
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