SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING: BEESWAX-BASED COATINGS FOR ENHANCED BARRIER PERFORMANCE

Authors: Zhuo Yang, Ericka Redmond, Mayara Santana

SUNY Campus: SUNY ESF

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 111

Presentation #: 71

Timeslot: Session D 3:00-4:00 PM

Abstract: As the global packaging industry moves toward more sustainable solutions, the development of eco-friendly barrier materials has become a critical area of focus. Conventional synthetic barriers, while effective, often rely on non-renewable resources and pose significant environmental challenges due to their limited recyclability and biodegradability. In contrast, formulations based on renewable polymers and natural waxes, such as beeswax, present a promising alternative for creating sustainable and functional barrier layers. This study investigates the potential of combining renewable polymers to develop sustainable water and oil barrier formulations for packaging applications. The barrier was formulated with 30% beeswax and 15% starch (CATO-SIZE® 270A, Ingredion) and applied in a single layer onto 168 g/m² recyclable linerboard using a laboratory-scale RK control coater. The target grammage was achieved by adjusting the applicator bar’s speed and thickness. Water resistance, evaluated using the Cobb test (TAPPI T 441), resulted in values of 111 and 20 gH2O/m² for coating weights of 3 g/m² and 13 g/m², respectively. These results indicate good barrier performance compared to uncoated base paper, which readily absorbs water. Oil repellency, assessed by the Kit test (TAPPI T 559), exhibited excellent performance, with all samples achieving the maximum rating of 10. The inherent hydrophobicity of beeswax makes it a promising candidate for use as a paper coating to enhance barrier properties. Next steps include optimizing a two -layer application and testing the barrier coating water and oil resistance in flat and creased paper samples. Key words: barrier coating, sustainable, packaging.