Biopolymer-Based Films and Coatings for Packaging Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Bioplastics are currently generating high research interest, motivated by the environmental threat posed by petroleum-based plastics. The food packaging industry stands to gain as consumers demand eco-friendly and intelligent packaging materials. Therefore, finding alternative plastics that are environmentally friendly and low cost to sustainably support the developing bio-economy is one strategy that can meet food loss and waste sustainable development goals. Bioplastics developed from agriculture waste can be designed to intelligently monitor food quality during storage, and we can explore their biocompatibility in coating bioactives. Moreover, composite polymers obtained from food waste would not only lead to a reduction in food loss and waste, but will create biodegradable material with enhanced physicomechanical, barrier, and thermomechanical properties, which will develop cost-effective materials for use in a range of bioproducts.

Therefore, this Special Issue will encompass current and applied research in the discipline of biodegradable polymers, especially from agricultural waste. Submissions are welcome on topics related to the bioconversion of food wastes into polymers, bio-based microencapsulation, the customized production of composite polymers, and smart bioplastics and their applications in the areas of food quality monitoring during short- and long-term storage use, and cost-effective production strategies for the best possible industrial output/relevance.

Prof. Dr. Albert Linton Charles
Guest Editor

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