In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront, Praveen Kumar and Prof. Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad innovation has the potential to revolutionise the packaging industry. The newly developed water-resistant paper offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastic-coated packaging materials, reducing reliance on non-biodegradable products.

The research team focused on harnessing the unique properties of plant-based materials to create a durable and sustainable coating for paper. By using renewable resources, they aimed to address the growing global issue of plastic pollution, caused largely by single-use packaging materials.

The plant-based coating developed by Kunam and Gaikwad not only imparts water resistance to paper but also maintains its strength and durability. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly enhance the shelf life and overall quality of packaged goods while minimising environmental impact.

Uncoated and coated paper sheets showing resistance to water absorptivity

Speaking about their accomplishment, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad, professor, stated, “We are thrilled to have successfully developed water-resistant paper using a plant-based coating. This innovation opens up immense possibilities for sustainable packaging, providing a viable solution to the plastic waste problem. We hope that this breakthrough will inspire other researchers and industries to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.”

Kunam, the M.Tech (Paper Engg) student who actively contributed to the project, said, “Working on this research has been an incredible experience. We aimed to develop a solution that combines functionality, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. I am proud of our team’s achievements and believe that our water-resistant paper has the potential to make a significant positive impact on the environment.”

The water-resistant paper holds immense promise for various packaging applications, including food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and more. Its ability to resist moisture while being biodegradable makes it an ideal choice for sustainable packaging solutions. The research team is now focusing on scaling up the production process and collaborating with industry partners to bring this groundbreaking innovation to the market.