QUT BLUEBOX LICENSES INNOVATIVE BIODEGRADABLE COATING PRODUCT

QUT bluebox has licensed QUT’s biodegradable coating technology for the packaging market with Chemcolour for Australia and New Zealand.

The innovative lignin barrier coating technology, which provides a biodegradable water resistant coating for paper and cardboard, is a result of QUT research from QUT Technical Manager, Mr Albert Tietz and QUT Adjunct Professor Les Edye.

“QUT bluebox is committed to delivering innovation for the real world and this coating could have a significant positive effect as the coating is cost effective, sourced from renewables, recyclable and biodegradable,” QUT bluebox CEO Tim McLennan said.

One of the key components is lignin from plants, which is a complex natural molecule that provides strength to plants and wood.

Conventional cardboard packaging is typically coated with wax or plastic to render the cardboard water resistant; for example, takeaway coffee cups, which are coated with plastic to prevent the hot liquid from destroying the cardboard, are not biodegradable and end up as landfill.

This problem also extends into general cardboard packaging for distribution of parcels, consumer goods and food.
The innovative coating can render cardboard and paper water-resistant, is biodegradable and recyclable, meaning it could be a significant advancement for waste and recycling environmental efforts around the world.

This is the first partnership with QUT Bluebox and Chemcolour. Chemcolour is an Australian and New Zealand leader in manufacturing of chemicals for both the Australian and selected export markets.

“This is a positive partnership with one of Australia’s leading manufacturers,” Mr McLennan said.

For more information

Contact: QUT bluebox

Email: enquiries@qutbluebox.com.au

Phone: +61 7 3138 9420