Novel technologies for producing tridimensional cellulosic materials for packaging: A review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Packaging
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Petroleum-based packaging has long supported societal development by protecting goods and reducing waste.
• Environmental concerns and legislation are driving the need for sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging.
• Cellulose presents a bio-based, biodegradable, and recyclable option, but traditional forms are limited to 2D applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging processes for manufacturing 3D molded cellulose packaging.
• To explore novel strategies for adapting cellulose materials for 3D applications.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in molded cellulose technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on cellulose properties and processing.
• Analysis of novel raw material adaptations for cellulose molding.
• Examination of injection molding techniques for cellulose-based packaging.

Main Results:

• Significant advancements in raw material processing enable new molded cellulose applications.
• Injection molding is being adapted for the production of 3D cellulose packaging.
• Novel strategies are emerging for creating complex 3D cellulose structures.

Conclusions:

• Molded cellulose is a promising sustainable alternative for 3D packaging.
• Ongoing research focuses on adapting manufacturing processes for wider adoption.
• Further development in raw materials and techniques will enhance cellulose's role in packaging.