Reversible Photo-Responsive Hydrophobic Coating Synthesized from Lignin-Derivable Molecules on Nanocellulose Films for Packaging Applications.

Paper-based packaging can offer a sustainable replacement for plastics. However, paper provides a poor barrier to water, oxygen and moisture. This study presents a novel renewable lignocellulosic composite made from a hydrophobic photo-reversible coating deposited onto a cellulose nanofiber film that has improved barrier properties and can be reprocessed.

Strategic Approach Towards Plastic Waste Valorization: Challenges and Promising Chemical Upcycling Possibilities.

Plastic waste, which is one of the major sources of pollution in the landfills and oceans, has raised global concern, primarily due to the huge production rate, high durability, and the lack of utilization of the available waste management techniques. Recycling methods are preferable to reduce the impact of plastic pollution to some extent. However, most of the recycling techniques are associated with different drawbacks, high cost and downgrading of product quality being among the notable ones.