Research Projects

The proposed project aims to optimize the extraction of lignin from cotton stalks, which are abundant biopolymers with radical scavenging and antimicrobial properties. The global food packaging market is expected to reach 562.3 billion USD with a CAGR of 5.5% between 2020-2030. Plastics account for 36% of the global packaging materials, with 34% for fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, and seafood packaging. Governments are working to develop sustainable materials that balance single-use plastic characteristics with modern economy and consumerism trends. The biodegradable packaging market is projected to grow at a 6.35% CAGR by 2027. The global cotton market is predicted to grow at 4.1% CAGR from 2022-2027, with India contributing about 25%. Cotton stalk degradation is slow, and burning it could contribute to air pollution. The project plans to optimize lignin extraction using various physico-chemical methods and synthesize a lignin-reinforced pullulan bio-composite film. This bio-composite can enhance food shelf life, quality, and safety by gradually releasing active compounds or scavenging undesired ones. The lignin-pullulan bio-composite will be synthesized using solvent casting/extruder methods and different ethylene scavengers to optimize film performance. The final aspect of the project will evaluate the bio-composite film's capability for meat and fruit active packaging, assessing shelf life and organoleptic properties over time. This study aims to develop a reliable and sustainable plant-based active packaging material.