Subventions et des contributions :

Subvention ou bourse octroyée s'appliquant à plus d'un exercice financier (2017-2018 à 2018-2019).

Developing sustainable bio-based packaging systems is presently a key challenge in the packaging industry.x000D
Presently, the packaging industry uses synthetic UV stabilizers to protect plastics against damage andx000D
degradation caused by UV exposure.x000D
In collaboration with ProAmpac, a Canadian manufacturer of flexible packaging, the research group led byx000D
Professor Clara Santato proposes to use melanin biopigments in biocompatible and biodegradable Ultravioletx000D
(UV) stabilizers in plastics and food packaging. Santato has a long experience in the processing andx000D
characterization of melanin, in terms of optical, thermal and electrical properties. ProAmpac is interested inx000D
using the abundant pigment melanin to replace current UV stabilizers in packaging films.x000D
Melanin is a pigment ubiquitous in flora and fauna. In humans, various forms of melanin are responsible for ax000D
variety of functions: photoprotection of skin and eyes, hair and eye color. The ink of Sepia officinalis, used byx000D
squids for camouflage or defense, contains Sepia melanin.x000D
We propose to replace synthetic UV stabilizers, currently employed in the packaging industry, with melaninx000D
biopigments.x000D
Our approach includes an unprecedented survey of the evolution of the spectroscopic properties of melaninx000D
from the monomer to the polymer. Based on this approach our trainees will acquire valuable knowledge inx000D
materials and polymers processing, optical characterization of materials and scanning probe microscopy, muchx000D
needed for different sectors of the job market (packaging, optical instrumentation, solar energy conversionx000D
technologies, cosmetics and dermatology).