News

Hydrolytic Degradation of Poly(lactic acid): Unraveling Correlations between Temperature and the Three Phase Structures

Published on September 23, 2023
This work investigates the hydrolysis kinetics of PLA films as affected by the degree of crystallinity and temperatures by considering the three-phase model structures (i.e., mobile amorphous, rigid amorphous, and crystalline).
PPWR2: Optimizing Packaging Systems' Safety for Reuse and Recycling in Compliance with the New Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation

Published on September 11, 2023
The new PPWR is a cornerstone of the European Commission's Circular Economy Action Plan. All packaging in the EU will need to adapt to these regulations starting in 2025. Join us for the 2nd Symposium on Packaging Materials Supply Chain Safety.
MSU School of Packaging researchers make a sustainable plastic more compostable

Published on August 4, 2023
Researchers led by Rafael Auras in the Michigan State University School of Packaging have shown how to make a bio-based polymer compostable in both home and industrial settings.
Breaking It Down: How Thermoplastic Starch Enhances Poly(lactic acid) Biodegradation in Compost─A Comparative Analysis of Reactive Blends

Published on June 29, 2023
Blending PLA with thermoplastic starch promotes sustainable biodegradation of PLA under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions without creating microplastics.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nutritious mushroom protein crisp – healthy alternative to starchy snack

Published on March 4, 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.
Morphological, barrier, thermal, and rheological properties of high-pressure treated co-extruded polylactide films and the suitability for food packaging

Published on March 3, 2022
Coextruded polylactide films were tested in high-pressure system.
Teaching Philosophy

Published on March 3, 2022
Think of your footprint: inspiring students to be lifelong learners and be passionate about their packaging profession
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.
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.
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.