We are so dependent on petroleum-derived polystyrene for packaging that we generally sideline its negative impact on the environment. Suggesting a better alternative, Gregory M. Glenn, the plant physiologist at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in California, has suggested that eco-friendly starch from potatoes, wheat and corn could be utilized to make packaging foam. After putting in two decades of research, Glenn, working with Simon K. Hodson, has successfully developed two technologies as part of a recent study.
Moreover, it’s comparatively easier to manufacture this biofoam than the other conventional methods. Another advantage makes the biodegradable foam mold-able into a variety of shapes and thicknesses. Permeability is its only drawback but the researchers are confident to overcome it via a moisture barrier made from corn.
Via: Thaindian
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