We are developing the next generation in packaging solutions. Our researchers are exploring ways to make food packaging smart enough to detect spoilage or give food cues to ripen to help extend shelf life. We’re working on ways to make pharmaceutical containers easier for aging patients to use and yet still safe and tamper-proof. And from food to medication to consumer products, we’re developing sustainable innovations to cut down on plastic waste.

Our work in this area is based on research pioneered in CLiPS, the National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center for Layered Polymeric Systems led by Case Western Reserve Researchers. Our research themes address emerging priorities like:

• Safety and Security: damage mitigation, anti-counterfeiting and smart packaging
• Selective Molecular and Material Transport: gas and/or moisture barrier materials; and tailored permeability
• Surfaces and Interfaces: adaptable, programmable and responsive packaging; haptic interactions and damage resistance
• Sustainability: renewable materials; light-weighting; novel processing methods; life cycle considerations; and design logic