Demand For Packages Research Articles

Waste to wealth: Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) production from food waste for a sustainable packaging paradigm

The growing demand for sustainable food packaging and the increasing concerns regarding environmental pollution have driven interest in biodegradable materials. This paper presents an in-depth review of the production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a biodegradable polymer, from food waste. PHA-based bioplastics, particularly when derived from low-cost carbon sources such as volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and waste oils, offer a promising solution for reducing plastic waste and enhancing food packaging sustainability. Through optimization of microbial fermentation processes, PHA production can achieve significant efficiency improvements, with yields reaching up to 87 % PHA content under ideal conditions. This review highlights the technical advancements in using PHA for food packaging, emphasizing its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and potential to serve as a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. However, challenges such as high production costs, mechanical limitations, and the need for scalability remain barriers to industrial adoption. The future of PHA in food packaging hinges on overcoming these challenges through further research and innovation in production techniques, material properties, and cost reduction strategies, along with necessary legislative support to promote widespread use.

Development of Poly(lactic acid)-Based Biocomposites with Silver Nanoparticles and Investigation of Their Characteristics

Nowadays, the demand for food packaging that maintains the safety and quality of products has become one of the leading challenges. It can be solved by developing functional materials based on biodegradable polymers, such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA). In order to develop PLA-based functional materials with antibacterial activity, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were introduced. In the present study, AgNPs stabilized by a copolymer of ethylene and maleic acid were used. Under the joint action of shear deformations and high temperature, the biocomposites of PLA with poly(ethylene glycol) and AgNPs were produced. Their mechanical and thermal characteristics, water absorption, and structure were investigated using modern methods (DSC, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM). The effect of AgNP concentration on the characteristics of PLA-based biocomposites was detected. Based on the results of antibacterial activity tests (against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, along with yeast) it is assumed that these systems have potential as materials for extending the storage of food products. At the same time, PLA–PEG biocomposites with AgNPs possess biodegradability.

Advancing sustainable molded packaging: Integrating silica aerogel into recycled paper pulp for the fabrication of thermally and mechanically stable superhydrophobic composites

In recent years, the growing demand for sustainable packaging has significantly fueled the quest to explore novel approaches that enhance the applicability of renewable alternatives. This study leverages the unique properties of silica aerogel (SA) to address the limitations of traditional molded pulp products. By integrating SA into recycled paper pulp (RP), we aimed to improve water resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties. Composites were prepared with varying SA concentrations (1–10 %). Contact angle measurements showed enhanced hydrophobicity, with RP/SA3 % achieving a contact angle of 152.09°, compared to 122.39° for neat RP. The tensile index (TI) of RP/SA composites with 3 % SA increased by 21.09 % compared to neat RP, indicating better mechanical strength. Thermal conductivity significantly decreased, with RP/SA10 % reducing from 0.155 W m−1·K−1 in neat RP to 0.088 W m−1·K−1, a 43.2 % improvement in thermal insulation. Additionally, composites with 1 % and 3 % SA maintained high biodegradability, showing over 50 % degradation after six weeks in soil. These results suggest that incorporating SA into RP composites enhances their functionality without compromising biodegradability, offering a promising solution for sustainable packaging. As regulatory bodies emphasize resource management and waste reduction, the potential of these innovative and environmentally friendly packaging solutions becomes increasingly significant.

Eco‐Friendly Food Packaging Barrier Coatings Comprised of Ball‐Milled Polysaccharide Polyelectrolyte Complexes

ABSTRACTIncreasing demand for packaging has motivated research into sustainable materials to prevent continued plastic pollution. Materials based on polysaccharide polyelectrolyte complexes (PPCs) are emerging as a viable solution for packaging applications. We employed ball milling, a well‐established technology, for the preparation of PPC materials to create an innovative one‐step process capable of producing highly concentrated and homogeneous PPC particle precursor dispersions. We fabricated carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and chitosan (CS)–based PPC solutions exhibiting high‐solid loading and investigated the potential of PPC solutions made from ball milling as alternative barriers for packaging. PPC‐coated paperboard exhibited improved Cobb test performance and outstanding grease resistance as compared to pristine paper. The results certified that a single‐step process via ball milling can produce high‐solid content PPC solutions useful for creating bio‐based coatings with excellent barrier performance.

Analysis of proper ink management impact on overall environmental equipment efficiency for sustainability

Printing as a process itself generates many environmental concerns. The paper addresses ink management in terms of environmental issues in the label printing industry, focusing on its environmental implications. The goal is to demonstrate how a proper ink management system impacts overall printing process efficiency and environmental sustainability for printing companies. The paper introduces an empirical approach to managing components for label and packaging production, utilizing automatic ink dispensing systems. The results demonstrate that the proper management of ink dispensing to minimize waste in packaging printing is crucial for optimizing operating print costs, potentially reducing the amount of ink needed to prepare colors by 52% and achieving energy savings of 37%. This approach fulfills the goal of sustainability by addressing environmental, economic, and social concerns. By optimizing ink usage and energy consumption, companies can significantly reduce operating costs and enhance economic performance. Simultaneously, these practices improve product quality, meet consumer demands for sustainable packaging, and create better working conditions for employees. Future directions and practical implications for supporting operational excellence in production are also discussed.

Stock Valuation of PT. Panca Budi Idaman, Tbk. (PBID) based on Free Cash Flow to the Firm and on Relative Valuation

The stock valuation of PT Panca Budi Idaman, Tbk. (PBID), an Indonesian plastic packaging manufacturer, is evaluated using the absolute and relative valuation. The absolute valuation is based on Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) method. In relative valuation, PBID is compared to its peers, which in this study are IPOL, PDPP, and TRST. Indonesia’s significant economic growth and the vital role of the plastic industry are noting strong demand for plastic packaging despite environmental challenges and regulatory pressures. Financial performance from 2017 to 2023 is assessed through profitability, liquidity, and solvency ratios, demonstrating PBID’s efficient operations and robust financial health. Future cash flows are projected, discounted using PBID’s Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC), and the terminal value is calculated. The intrinsic value is estimated at IDR 3,987 per share, indicating undervaluation compared to the current price of IDR 1,325 per share. Relative valuation compares PBID to industry peers using EV/EBITDA, P/E, and P/B ratios, reinforcing the undervaluation finding. Investment recommendations suggest PBID’s stock as a buying opportunity due to its strong market position and favourable valuation metrics.

Kajian Pustaka Metode Optimasi Respons Surface Methods dan Thin Layer Equation pada Produk Pengeringan Rempah Rimpang (Jahe, Kunyit, Temulawak)

Ginger, turmeric, and curcuma are rhizome spices that have the highest production value in Indonesia. Fresh products from rhizomes have high water content and are often damaged by microorganisms. For this reason, proper and efficient processing is needed so that the quality of the rhizome spices is maintained and under the standards set by the Indonesian National Standards. One of the appropriate processing methods for rhizome spices is the drying method. Drying is the oldest technique for food preservation and is an indispensable process in the food industry. The drying process aims to reduce water content and activity to safe limits that can extend shelf life, minimize packaging demands, and reduce weight during distribution. Various conventional and modern drying techniques have been applied to spices, namely solar drying, oven drying, and microwave drying. To obtain final drying results in good quality and high drying efficiency, it is necessary to optimize the drying method process conditions, including mathematical modelling using the RSM (Response Surface Method) method and the Thin Layer Drying Equation. From the optimum conditions for each drying method, a regression analysis was then carried out on several drying quality parameters for ginger, turmeric, and ginger. The higher the value of the regression coefficient (R2) and the closer it is to 1 in the mathematical modelling obtained, then this mathematical modelling is the best.

Development of jute-polyethylene nonwoven fabric for sustainable packaging application

ABSTRACT Environmental concerns promote demand for biodegradable packaging on a global scale. Jute fiber packaging could be a viable and sustainable alternative to pure synthetic materials. In this study, sustainable antimicrobial jute-polyethylene nonwoven fabric is developed by the heat press of jute web and polyethylene pellets. The performance of the developed samples was evaluated by analyzing their morphological, mechanical, thermal, moisture management, and antibacterial properties. SEM confirmed the homogeneous interfacial adhesion between jute-polyethylene. FTIR spectra proved the existence of jute, polyethylene, and peppermint oil in the developed samples. Mechanical property was investigated using a universal strength tester while tensile strength and elongation (%) were sufficient. The low thermal conductivities were observed in the samples. The moisture management tester confirmed the unavailability of the moisture in the inner surface from the outer surface. Furthermore, the samples exhibited significant antibacterial properties because of the application of peppermint essential oil.

Fiber production repeatability and selection of promising fique (Furcraea spp.) genotypes

AbstractGlobally, natural fibers are important at reducing the using nonrecyclable synthetic fibers; therefore, cultivating fique can help supply the demand for nonplastic packaging in the Colombian and international markets. Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria has a working collection of fique located at La Selva‐Rionegro Research Center (Antioquia‐Colombia). This work evaluated the repeatability coefficient of 68 Furcraea accessions harvested from 2019 to 2022. Repeatability coefficients of 0.293 and 0.149 were found for total dry fiber yield and dry fiber percentage, respectively. The yield‐stability selection index was calculated for the evaluated traits, by which 10 promising accessions were selected, representing 14% of the evaluated population. In addition, correlation coefficients were calculated between productive variables and some meteorological variables (accumulated rainfall, average maximum, and minimum temperatures, and accumulated solar radiation. The accumulated rainfall at 101 days showed the highest correlation with values of 0.429 and 0.488 for the total dry fiber production and the percentage of dry fiber, respectively. The average minimum temperature presented positive correlations with the productive performance of fique.

Cu array fabrication: An environmentally sustainable approach through bicontinuous microemulsion differential electrodeposition for advanced power device packaging

BackgroundThe demand for high-power density packaging and integration processes for third-generation semiconductors, like silicon carbide (SiC), necessitates advancements beyond conventional Si-based packaging technologies. Cu-Cu direct bonding emerges as a promising alternative in semiconductor packaging. However, achieving Cu-to-Cu direct bonding with low-temperature, low-pressure, and short-time poses significant challenges. Transient Liquid Phase Bonding (TLP) offers a low-temperature joining solution, but prolonged reflow time hinders its wide applications. MethodsThis study introduces a novel strategy utilizing bicontinuous microemulsion (BME) electrodeposition to fabricate micron-sized Cu arrays, addressing these challenges in achieving Cu bonding. The core of Cu array manufacturing lies in the differential electrodeposition rate of Cu ions in the aqueous and organic phases. This principle is rooted in the excellent conductivity of the aqueous solution compared to the non-conductivity of the organic solution. Significant findingsWe elucidate the growth mechanism and validate a theory for achieving void-free optimal growth of Cu arrays within BME and compared the cross-sectional morphology and fracture modes of TLP solder joints with micron and nano Cu arrays. Furthermore, the ability to recycle the BME soft template aligns with green chemistry principles, offering a sustainable die-attach approach for third-generation semiconductor device packaging.

Optimal joint strategies of introducing live streaming and online travel agency channels in the tourism supply chain

ABSTRACT With the advent of e-commerce, online travel platforms such as live streaming and online travel agency (OTA) are increasingly developing, which has changed the way people travel and has exerted a significant impact on people’s daily life. In reality, tourist attractions face the challenge of whether introducing live streaming channel, and tour operators face the challenge of whether entering OTAs. To address these challenges, our paper develops theoretical models and presents some insights. The results show that the optimal joint strategy depends on primarily on the fixed fee and annual service fee, but is also affected by other factors such as the size of user traffic, the interactive and review experience, and the consumer's preference. Interestingly, tour operators entering OTAs is always beneficial to tourist attractions, but tourist attractions introducing live streaming is always detrimental to tour operators. Besides, when offline channel and live streaming channel coexist, the total travel package demands will not increase after adding an OTA channel. At last, when considering consumer returns, tourist attractions are more willing to introduce live streaming, but the willingness of tour operators to join OTAs is related to tourists’ acceptance of the OTA channels.

The Price Trend of Polypropylene

Since the polypropylene (PP) is one of the most widely used plastics, the futures prices of polypropylene are of great significance for studying the Chinese plastic market and related investors. This paper analyzes the factors that influence the changes in PP futures prices during and before the pandemic period by examining the correlation between upstream raw materials, downstream product markets, and PP futures prices. The results show that the futures prices of the raw materials are positively correlated with PP futures prices. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the reduction in domestic PP demand in China, blocked crude oil imports, and refinery closures caused by control measures, the impact of crude oil futures prices on PP futures prices is relatively diminished. Furthermore, the increased demand for plastic packaging during the pandemic led to abnormal fluctuations in the packaging stock index, making it less valuable for analyzing PP futures prices. Finally, a regression analysis is conducted to establish a generalized predictive model for PP futures prices during non-pandemic periods, which is 9.91469 * crude oil futures prices + (-1.22343) * packaging stock index + 3.96203 * textile stock index + (-0.26201) * medical devices stock index. Its reliability is tested using data tests, residual vs. fitted analysis, and K-fold cross-validation, among other methods.

A biodegradable alginate/chitosan hydrogel based nonwoven from pre-consumer cotton waste and virgin wool for food packaging

The municipal waste is polluting the environment by releasing harmful substances. There is a demand for eco-friendly food packaging with higher shelf life. In this study, a biodegradable nonwoven for food packaging was developed using cotton waste and alginate/chitosan hydrogel. Firstly, needle-punched nonwovens were prepared from two different kinds of cotton waste (comber noil and card-fly) and wool fibers. The prepared nonwovens were immersed in a solution of alginate/chitosan followed by cross-linking with sodium chloride which resulted in formation of layers of hydrogel on/into nonwovens. The developed nonwovens for food packaging were characterized by using FTIR, DSC, SEM, air permeability and water absorbency tests. Moreover, mechanical strength and antibacterial evaluation of prepared nonwovens was also done. The properties of developed packaging materials are dependent on fiber type and concentration of hydrogel. The water absorption rate is highest (1 sec to 25 sec) in the case of wool fiber-based hydrogel nonwoven with tensile strength ranging from 65 N to 90 N. Moreover, all the developed samples of nonwoven alginate/chitosan hydrogel showed good antibacterials and air barrier (360 mm/sec to 620 mm/sec properties). The results indicate that the nonwoven alginate/chitosan hydrogel holds significant promise as an environmentally friendly substitute for food packaging materials.

Selection of Crosslinking Agents for Acrylic Resin Used in External Coatings for Aluminum Packaging in the Beverage Industry

Paints and coatings are widely used in various applications such as walls, cars, packaging, and food products. The quality of food packaging is essential due to its direct or indirect contact with food. The demand for high-quality food packaging is increasing due to the higher production and consumption rates. However, containers used in the beverage industry often face problems like scratches and abrasions during transportation. This study aimed to investigate different formulations of external coatings for beverage cans to improve their physical resistance properties and prevent corrosion and surface damage problems. The study involved reacting an acrylic resin with six different amino resins, including methylated melamine, butylated melamine, glycoluril, methylated urea, butylated urea, and benzoguanamine, in various proportions. The results of 25 formulated samples were compared based on properties such as adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance. The outcomes of the study showed significant differences among the crosslinking agents. Among all the crosslinking agents, methylated melamine showed the most favorable results in the analyses, proving to be effective in almost all tests.

An innovative high-entropy alloy solder for high-reliability low-temperature bonding in 3D electronic packaging–based on nano InSnBiZnAg particles

To address the demand for multilevel package, a low-melting-point high entropy alloy (HEA) solder was developed. It consists of 43In28Sn14Bi9Zn6Ag micro- and nano-particles with a melting point of about 62.80 °C. We obtained 43In28Sn14Bi9Zn6Ag nanoparticles by combining ultrasonic heating interaction with a "hot shock" process. Upon reflowing at 115 °C for 5 min, a Cu/Zn/Ag ternary intermetallic compound (IMC) formed at the interface between the solder and the copper substrate, leading to a shear strength of 40 MPa. The microstructure of this joint exhibits a complex composition with at least three phases, including Bi3In5 phase, Ag5Zn8 phase, and In0.2Sn0.8 solid solution. The stable Ag5Zn8 phase not only enhances the overall strength of the alloy matrix but also impedes the diffusion of In and Bi atoms, thereby preventing the segregation of the Bi3In5 phase. The high mixing entropy and pronounced lattice distortion in this high entropy alloy hinder the diffusion of elements within the solder matrix, mitigating the issue of excessive interfacial IMC growth. Consequently, the solder joints exhibit little degradation even after a high-temperature aging test. This high-entropy alloy solder has promising potential for multi-level chip stacking in 3D packaging.

Valorization of agricultural residues in the development of biodegradable active packaging films

The demand for sustainable and biodegradable packaging has urged the use of agricultural wastes in food packaging. Agricultural residues are good and cheap sources of biopolymers which are the major materials required for development of biodegradable films. These residues are generally subjected to the extraction of biopolymers which are further utilized for the preparation of biodegradable films. In the present research, orange peels were directly utilized for the development of biodegradable packaging films. Wheat straw and rice husk in different concentrations (i.e. 0%, 3%, 6%, 9% and 12%) were used as reinforcement material/filler in orange peel films. The effect of fillers on mechanical (thickness, tensile strength & elongation at break), structural (FTIR, SEM), optical, water barrier (WVP, water solubility, swelling index) active (DPPH antioxidant and antimicrobial activity) and biodegradation properties was evaluated. The results reported a significant increase in thickness, tensile strength and opacity in reinforced films compared to native orange peel films. However, the tensile properties increased upto 6% and decreased above this concentration due to agglomeration of filler particles in film matrix. Moisture contents, swelling index, solubility, WVP, biodegradability and elongation at break decreased with increasing filler concentration. FTIR results showed physical interaction between film components and fillers. SEM results revealed that the films reinforced with wheat straw and rice husk showed rough surface. Moreover, reinforcement also improved the active properties of orange peel films. RH and WS being rich sources of bioactive compounds, significantly enhanced DPPH scavenging activity and TPC. All films showed a clear inhibition against E. coli and S. aureus.

Regression modelling strategies for projected and sustainable kraft pulping of wheat straw

The demand for paper and paper-based packaging has seen a massive increase in past years, resulting in accelerated deforestation to meet the rising demand, negatively impacting the environment, and there is a need to look towards different non-woody raw materials. Kraft pulping (KP) is widely used in paper making, for which the chemical dose, temperature, time, and energy required must be optimized, for which many insignificant experimental trials are performed. An effort is made to solve this problem by developing the regression equations with the help of Excel using One Factor at a Time Analysis (OFAT), followed by carrying out design of experiments (DoE) using orthogonal approach and regression analysis in Minitab software. Life cycle Assessment (LCA) using the Open-LCA software estimates the effect of chemicals and energy required during pulping on human health, ecosystem quality, and resource depletion. Using regression analysis, the equations for predicting kappa number, yield (%), total energy consumed, and mechanical properties of the paper sheet showed a good fit with an R2 value in the range of 0.90–0.99. Apart from that, the mechanical properties, namely tensile index (41.43 Nm/g), tear index (6.96 mN m2/g), bending stiffness (0.5 mN m), and burst index (3.92 kPa m2/g) of the unbeaten sheet, were determined experimentally at optimized conditions. Based on the Open-LCA result, the optimized pulping conditions had less impact on human health, ecosystem quality, and resource depletion. Industries can use the model to predict the values of kappa number, yield, mechanical properties, and energy consumption without performing optimization experiments that may impact the industry's economy to a greater extent.

Smart carrageenan/carboxymethyl cellulose films combined with zein/gellan gum microcapsules encapsulated by composite anthocyanins for chilled beef freshness monitoring

The demand for smart packaging to monitor food spoilage is increasing. In the present study, composite anthocyanin microcapsules (CAM) were prepared by using zein and gellan gum as wall materials and protecting composite anthocyanin (CA). Carrageenan (Car)/sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)-based indicator films (CC) containing CAM microcapsules were developed for monitoring the freshness of beef. The results demonstrated that the composite anthocyanins could be well dispersed in the CC matrix. CAM significantly reduced the effects of light and temperature on the stability of anthocyanins. CAM significantly improved the thermal stability, barrier properties and tensile strength of the films. The infrared spectra showed that the components of the indicator films were structurally similar and well-compatible. Among them, the indicator film CC/CAM-3 had the highest tensile strength (17.76 MPa), the lowest water vapor transmission rate (1.35 × 10−11 g/m·s·Pa) and a tight and neat cross-section. The color of the indicator film changed significantly in the ammonia environment: pink→blue-green→yellow. Applying different concentrations of indicator films to beef freshness monitoring, we found that beef reached sub-freshness and spoilage on days 4 and 7, respectively, and accordingly the indicator film CC/CAM-3 changed from pink to purple and green. To examine its capability as a colorimetric indicator film, we related the change in beef quality to the ΔE value of the indicator film, which proved to be the most sensitive when used to monitor the freshness grade of beef, as demonstrated by the indicator film CC/CAM-3.

Composite biofilm chitosan-microcrystalline cellulose for tomato preservation

The demand for packaging has caused a surge in non-biodegradable plastic waste. To tackle this issue, biofilms provide a safe and effective alternative for packaging and preservation. This research focused on combining chitosan and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) to produce composite biofilms to preserve fresh fruits. The study involved adding varying quantities of MCC, ranging from 0g to 11g, to chitosan using a glycerol plasticizer. The results showed that adding MCC reduced the adhesion of the chitosan-based film, resulting in a more intact film. The surface morphology of the film showed uniform dispersion of MCC particles. The water adsorption and solubility of the MCC-added films increased while biodegradability decreased. The best biofilm for preservation application was the chitosan film supplemented with 3g of MCC. This film helped limit weight loss, vitamin C content, total acid content, and soluble solids loss in tomatoes during storage. Essentially, the chitosan-MCC film helped to reduce water evaporation, respiration, metabolism with the external environment, and penetration of microorganisms on tomatoes, thus extending their shelf life.

The Impact of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Factors and Eco-Friendly Trends on the Beauty Industry: A Big Data Analysis of the Past Year

This study examines the impact of eco-friendly trends and Environmental, Social, and Governance(ESG) factors in the beauty industry. Recognizing the significance of eco-friendly trends and ESG in the sector, the research aims to achieve its objectives by extracting key keywords using big data and analyzing them through social network analysis. The data utilized for this study covers the period from June 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. The findings of this research reveal that both eco-friendly trends and ESG have a substantial influence on the beauty industry as a whole. Firstly, eco-friendly trends have brought about changes in beauty product development and production methods. Increased consumer environmental consciousness has led to a higher demand for natural ingredients, renewable materials, and recyclable packaging. As a result, numerous beauty brands are launching eco-friendly product lines and adopting environmentally sustainable production practices, promoting these initiatives in their actual beauty products. Secondly, ESG factors significantly impact the business operations and sustainability of beauty industry companies. Companies that demonstrate outstanding performance in environmental, social responsibility, and governance aspects are more likely to gain greater trust and support from consumers and investors. Complying with social values, ethical principles such as opposing animal testing, ensuring product safety, fair trade, diversity, and inclusivity, enhances companies' competitiveness. Lastly, this research finds that eco-friendly trends and ESG not only affect the beauty industry itself but also influence investment decisions. ESG evaluations assist investors in assessing a company's long-term value creation capability and risk management. Business strategies that consider ESG factors have the potential to attract investor interest. It is important to note that this study is based on current trends and data, but the beauty industry is continuously and rapidly evolving. Ongoing updates to research findings and further investigations into new trends are necessary.