School of Packaging Auras Lab

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  Boosting Degradation of Biodegradable Polymers

  Published on January 26, 2023
  Compostability certification of polymers is time-consuming and expensive. Approaches to accelerating the biodegradation of these polymers in simulated composting conditions can facilitate and speed up evaluating potential compostable polymers.

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  Mapping class learning outcomes of the core curriculum to university learning goals at Michigan State University's School of Packaging

  Published on January 4, 2023
  Class learning outcomes supporting the interdisciplinary curriculum of the School of Packaging at Michigan State University (MSU) were mapped to competency-based, programmatic learning outcomes undergirded by broad learning goals of the University.

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  The effect of alcoholic solutions on the thermomechanical properties of immersed poly(lactic acid) films

  Published on December 1, 2022
  The effects of aqueous and deuterium oxide (D2O) solutions of alcohols (methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, and 1-butanol) on the thermomechanical properties of poly(lactic acid)—PLA—films were assessed by dynamic mechanical analysis.

• Implications of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directives on the creation and adoption of sustainable food packaging systems: a USA-France interaction.

  Published on November 16, 2022
  This workshop brings national and international policymakers, academia, and industry stakeholders of the packaging supply chain to discuss the implication of the new EU Packaging Waste Directive.

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  Biodegradation of Biodegradable Polymers in Mesophilic Aerobic Environments

  Published on October 12, 2022
  Biodegradable polymers derived from bio- and fossil-based sources have emerged as one feasible alternative to overcome inconveniences associated with the use and disposal of non-biodegradable polymers.

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  Life Cycle of Sustainable Packaging: from Design to End of Life

  Published on September 28, 2022
  Our book “Life Cycle of Sustainable Packaging: from Design to End of Life” has been published.

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  Nutritious mushroom protein crisp – healthy alternative to starchy snack

  Published on March 5, 2022
  A method of producing and testing mushrooms protein crisps (MPC), a healthy alternative to conventional starchy snacks that are rich in protein, nutraceutical compounds, minerals, vitamin, dietary fiber, and immunity inducing beta-glucans.

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  Teaching Philosophy

  Published on March 4, 2022
  Think of your footprint: inspiring students to be lifelong learners and be passionate about their packaging profession

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  Morphological, barrier, thermal, and rheological properties of high-pressure treated co-extruded polylactide films and the suitability for food packaging

  Published on March 4, 2022
  Coextruded polylactide films were tested in high-pressure system.

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  MSU School of Packaging receives grants to develop two new processes to recycle and reuse plastics

  Published on July 9, 2021
  The Rabnawaz Research Team is developing new processes for bottle-to-bottle recycling and a responsible solution to reuse mixed plastic waste.

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  Developing biodegradable plastics to reduce negative environmental impacts

  Published on February 14, 2017
  Conventional plastic can take over 1,000 years to degrade. Rafael Auras believes this can be solved through biodegradable and compostable materials.

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  Packaging Researcher Honored

  Published on July 13, 2010
  Rafael Auras received the 2009-2010 College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Excellence in Teaching: New Teacher Award.