Project Objectives and Targets

1. Identify and formulate biodegradable polymer composites and blends based on commercial biodegradable polymers using conventional melt processing 

2. Produce branched polyhydroxyalkonates from renewable biomass to blend with commercial biodegradable polymers to improve the biodegradability 

3. Optimise biodegradable polymer composites, blends and nanocomposites suitable for production of porotype packaging film 

4. Production and characterisation of selected biodegradable composites on pilot scale extrusion (100-200 Kgs) to produce prototype-packaging films 

5. Evaluate the recyclability of commercial biodegradable products (based on PLA, PBS, TPS, blends of Biodegradable polymers) and their mixtures obtained through mechanical recycling process 

6. Characterisation of mechanical, thermal and barrier properties of recycled composites

7. Life cycle analysis and evaluation of biodegradability of virgin and recycled composites under industrial compositing, anaerobic and home composting conditions 

8. Engage with stake holders to develop strategy for managing the plastic waste arising from biodegradable plastics 

9. Develop capacity and knowledge base to promote innovation for products based on biodegradable plastics