Master's Thesis Opportunity: Development of Oxygen Barrier for Food Packaging Applications

Job description

Objective 
The aim of this project is to gain both theoretical and experimental insights into various coating materials and additives, with the goal of developing improved barrier dispersion coatings for food packaging applications.  

Background 
The reduction of plastics in food packaging is a growing concern, with the industry striving to address the environmental issues of plastic waste and littering. While paper and paperboard are eco-friendlier alternatives, they often lack the protective qualities needed for food and liquid storage without further modification.  

One promising solution is to apply a thin barrier coating on paper or paperboard, which can deliver the same level of protection as thicker plastic or aluminium layers, but with a smaller environmental footprint. These barriers can be made from a variety of materials such as polymers, minerals, or graphene and are designed to protect against compounds like water, fats, oxygen, and mineral oils.  

However, a good barrier for one type of compound often fails to provide protection against others, meaning that specific barriers are needed for different types of protection. The challenge is to develop a versatile oxygen barrier that can effectively replace aluminium, which is commonly used in food packaging. This barrier will be applied using rod coating methods and should be based on a water-dispersed chemical system.  

Main Goal 
This thesis project aims to help develop an innovative oxygen barrier for food packaging applications that could serve as an alternative to aluminium layers. The focus will be on formulating a dispersion coating applied via rod coating. One specific field of interest is interpolymer complexation (IPC) for improving the barrier performance of barrier coatings. 

Project Overview 
As part of this project, the candidate will:  

• Conduct a comprehensive literature review on the IPC concept and use of IPC forming agents for enhancing the barrier properties of dispersion coatings.  
• Interview experienced professionals to gather insights on the use of these chemicals and additives.  
• Design experimental plans to test promising chemicals and additives.  
• Prepare and test coating liquids, analyze their rheological properties, and apply them to sample surfaces using rod coating techniques.  
  Evaluate the coated samples by measuring key barrier properties, morphology and examining them using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).  

Timeline 
The project is expected to begin in early 2025 (or according to agreement), with a detailed timeline to be agreed upon with the selected candidate.  

Location  
The project will preferably take place at Billerud’s mill and laboratory in Frövi, where cutting-edge barrier research and development are conducted. Lab work could be performed at another location, e.g. your university   

Qualifications

We are seeking motivated master's students in one of the following fields:  

• Chemical Engineering / Chemistry  
• Mechanical Engineering / Material Science  
• Engineering Physics / Physics  
• Or a related field  

Bachelor's students who meet the qualifications are also encouraged to apply. The candidate must be available to conduct the practical aspects of the project on-site in our Frövi laboratories when required.  

Personal qualities

Our values are central in our business and we believe that you recognize yourself in: we care for each other and we do what we say.

Contact

For further information, please contact: William Apelqvist  
Email: william.apelqvist@billerud.com  

Application information

Applications are evaluated continuously, and the project will commence once a suitable candidate is selected. To apply, submit a personal letter and CV through the Billerud application system.  

We look forward to receiving your application!