Biopigments for UV-stabilized films for the packaging industry

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Developing sustainable bio-based packaging systems is presently a key challenge in the packaging industry.Presently, the packaging industry uses synthetic UV stabilizers to protect plastics against damage anddegradation caused by UV exposure.In collaboration with ProAmpac, a Canadian manufacturer of flexible packaging, the research group led byProfessor Clara Santato proposes to use melanin biopigments in biocompatible and biodegradable Ultraviolet(UV) stabilizers in plastics and food packaging. Santato has a long experience in the processing andcharacterization of melanin, in terms of optical, thermal and electrical properties. ProAmpac is interested inusing the abundant pigment melanin to replace current UV stabilizers in packaging films.Melanin is a pigment ubiquitous in flora and fauna. In humans, various forms of melanin are responsible for avariety of functions: photoprotection of skin and eyes, hair and eye color. The ink of Sepia officinalis, used bysquids for camouflage or defense, contains Sepia melanin.We propose to replace synthetic UV stabilizers, currently employed in the packaging industry, with melaninbiopigments.Our approach includes an unprecedented survey of the evolution of the spectroscopic properties of melaninfrom the monomer to the polymer. Based on this approach our trainees will acquire valuable knowledge inmaterials and polymers processing, optical characterization of materials and scanning probe microscopy, muchneeded for different sectors of the job market (packaging, optical instrumentation, solar energy conversiontechnologies, cosmetics and dermatology).