Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The food packaging industry faces increasing demands for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to address the challenges of food preservation and safety. This research project focuses on the development of a novel food packaging material utilizing plant-based biopolymers to enhance barrier properties. The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing plant-based biopolymers in food packaging applications to reduce environmental impact and improve food safety. The project begins with an introduction that provides background information on the current state of the food packaging industry, highlighting the importance of developing sustainable packaging materials. The problem statement emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to address the limitations of traditional packaging materials in terms of sustainability and barrier properties. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the research process towards achieving the desired outcomes. The research methodology chapter details the experimental approach, including the selection of plant-based biopolymers, formulation of packaging materials, and testing methods to evaluate barrier properties. The study investigates the mechanical properties, oxygen and moisture barrier properties, and antimicrobial effectiveness of the developed packaging materials. The literature review chapter explores existing research on plant-based biopolymers, food packaging technology, and sustainability in the packaging industry. The review of relevant literature provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of research in the field and identifies gaps that this study aims to address. The discussion of findings chapter presents the results of the experimental tests conducted on the developed packaging materials. The analysis of data highlights the impact of plant-based biopolymers on barrier properties and the potential benefits of using these materials in food packaging applications. The chapter also discusses the implications of the findings for the food packaging industry and future research directions. In conclusion, this research project contributes to the development of sustainable food packaging solutions by exploring the use of plant-based biopolymers to enhance barrier properties. The study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing plant-based materials in food packaging applications and highlights the potential benefits in terms of environmental sustainability and food safety. Overall, this research project provides valuable insights into the development of innovative food packaging materials that address the challenges of the modern food industry.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties using plant-based biopolymers" aims to address the growing need for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions in the food industry. With the increasing awareness of plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on the environment, there is a pressing demand for alternative packaging materials that are biodegradable, renewable, and possess excellent barrier properties to protect food products from external factors such as moisture, oxygen, and light. This study will focus on the utilization of plant-based biopolymers, derived from renewable sources such as starch, cellulose, and proteins, to develop a novel food packaging material. These biopolymers offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics, as they are biodegradable, compostable, and can be sourced from renewable agricultural feedstocks. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the feasibility of enhancing the barrier properties of plant-based biopolymers through the incorporation of additives or the development of composite materials. By improving the barrier performance of these biopolymers, the resulting packaging material can offer enhanced protection to food products, extending their shelf life and maintaining their quality and freshness. The research methodology will involve a series of experimental studies to evaluate the barrier properties, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and biodegradability of the developed packaging material. Various analytical techniques, such as barrier testing, mechanical testing, thermal analysis, and biodegradation studies, will be employed to assess the performance of the novel packaging material. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of sustainable packaging solutions that can help reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste in the food industry. By utilizing plant-based biopolymers with enhanced barrier properties, food manufacturers can transition towards more sustainable packaging options while ensuring the safety and quality of their products. In conclusion, the research project on the development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties using plant-based biopolymers holds significant promise in addressing the sustainability challenges faced by the food packaging industry. By leveraging the unique properties of plant-based biopolymers and enhancing their barrier performance, this study aims to provide a valuable contribution towards the development of eco-friendly packaging solutions that align with the principles of a circular economy and environmental stewardship.