The National Academy of Sciences of Belarus has developed the first batch of PLA coated paper cups
Recently, the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus has successfully developed the first batch of environmentally friendly disposable cups, which are completely harmless to the environment. Alexander Rogachev, director of the Institute of New Materials, introduced this innovative achievement to the media.
This composite material made of paper and polylactic acid is intended to replace polyethylene and multi-layer packaging with plastic layers, which are harmful to the ecological environment.
The director explained: "The inner wall of the paper cups that currently replace plastic cups is still attached with a polyethylene film layer, which is to ensure the waterproofness of the container. Without this film, paper or cardboard will quickly penetrate when exposed to hot water and cannot be used."
It seems that a small amount of polyethylene film is less harmful to the environment, but in fact it is not. During the degradation process, the film will break down into microplastic particles that are difficult to filter and eventually enter the human body through animals and plants.
The innovation of scientists lies in using polylactic acid (a compound extracted from plant raw materials) instead of polyethylene coating. Similar to polyethylene, polylactic acid can make the packaging hydrophobic and effectively prevent moisture from penetrating the paper layer. But unlike synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, this material is completely biodegradable.
Alexander Rogachev revealed the background of the research and development: Belarus tried to produce polylactic acid packaging materials independently several years ago, but it lacked economic feasibility because the cost was several times that of polyethylene. Countries such as China that have achieved polylactic acid industrialization earlier also face the problem of rising costs of end products due to high raw material prices.
He said: "We estimate that it is more economical to use a paper substrate plus polylactic acid coating in Belarus. my country has an adequate supply of cellulose raw materials and a developed papermaking industry. Moreover, the paper layer of paper cups can be coated with polylactic acid with a lower molecular weight and lower density, which greatly reduces costs while maintaining the same performance."
In addition, the ultra-thin nature of the polylactic acid coating also reduces costs. The paper layer of the paper cup is 0.1-0.2 mm thick, while the polylactic acid coating is only 20 microns, which is thinner than a hair.
At present, the trial batch of this paper-based polylactic acid disposable water cup is undergoing multiple tests and certifications.
"We have conducted a comprehensive assessment of its safety in cold water, boiling water and acidic food solutions - after all, paper cups are often used to hold hot tea and juice. The test results are satisfactory," said Alexander Rogachev.
The expert pointed out that the application of polylactic acid film is not limited to paper cups, but can also be extended to other packaging areas, such as handbags.
Alexander Rogachev explained: "Polylactic acid film can significantly improve the mechanical strength of paper, especially in humid environments. It can serve as a waterproof barrier layer and achieve heat sealing function (forming an irremovable connection through heating and pressure). Ordinary paper cannot achieve this process, but polylactic acid coating makes it possible, which was originally an exclusive feature of polyethylene coating."
The research and development of this new composite biomaterial has brought together scientific research forces from many parties. Researchers from the Institute of New Materials Chemistry, the Institute of Microbiology of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus and the Belarusian State University jointly participated in the research.
