On November 7, René Romero Lezama, a doctoral student with the Cellulose Valley Chair, defended his dissertation at LGP2 laboratory* after three years of research focused on innovation in the field of sustainable packaging. This defense, focused on the topic “Multilayer materials for producing high-value-added packaging solutions,” provided an opportunity to present his work conducted under the chair, supported by the Grenoble INP Foundation thanks to the sponsorship of its eight industrial partners.
Scientific Challenges for Sustainable Solutions
This thesis project focused on the development of cellulose-based multilayer structures for active packaging, exploring two different approaches: antimicrobial protection for primary packaging and moisture control for secondary packaging. The overall objective was to improve the performance of cellulose-based packaging and endow it with new functionalities through a novel multilayer strategy using paper, as well as to propose bio-based, biodegradable, and recyclable alternatives to single-use plastics.
A promising application: active trays
Among his notable achievements, René has designed corrugated cardboard trays that incorporate essential oils, such as carvacrol derived from oregano oil. This approach extends the shelf life of strawberries by 50% without direct contact with the fruit or any compromise to its organoleptic qualities. This breakthrough meets both consumer expectations and environmental requirements.
Congratulations to René on this achievement and for his contribution to responsible innovation in the field of packaging!
Video testimonial
*CNRS / UGA / Grenoble INP – UGA / Agefpi
