New Eco-Friendly Packaging Film Extends Food Products' Shelf Life

Scientists presented ‘nano-bricks’, an eco-friendly packaging film that combines montmorillonite clay particles with an array of polymer materials, at the American Chemical Society's 241st National Meeting and Exposition. Made with about 70 percent clay and less than 100 nanometers thick, the transparent film can help food and beverage companies extend the shelf life of a wide range of products, such as keeping sodas sparkling longer, prolonging the shelf life of ready-to-eat meals, and keeping fruits and vegetables fresh longer. Unlike some advanced packaging materials, nano-bricks do not easily crack, and do not contain metal — which means they can be microwaved. Nano-bricks also have potential uses in electronics, automobiles, and sporting goods.