Finland’s VTT Technical Research Center is exploring the use of Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) as a way of producing enhanced packaging materials that are thinner and lighter than traditional barrier materials yet every bit as good in the barrier properties they deliver. “ALD allows different functions to be integrated in the packaging material, such as properties which prevent water, oxygen, humidity, fats and aromas from filtering through the packaging and protect the surface from stains and bacterial growth,” says azonano.com.
This coating technology could reduce the need for petroleum-based plastics and allow biopolymers to take their place because ALD has been shown to improve the ability of some biopolymers to tolerate humidity. To date this has been a shortcoming of the biopolymer category in general.
