Rafael Auras, PhD

Rafael Auras

Contact Me

Professor
School of Packaging

Phone:
517-432-3254

Email:

Degrees:
Undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from the National University of Misiones, Argentina, an MS in Materials Science and Technology from the National University of San Martin in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and a PhD in packaging from Michigan State University

Rafael Auras is a Professor with the School of Packaging at Michigan State University. Rafael leads a research group of undergraduate and graduate students interested in mass transfer in polymers, biodegradable and compostable polymers, life cycle assessment, packaging waste, and sustainable packaging systems. He has conducted research projects for Fortune 500 companies and government sponsored research projects. He is a regular speaker at national and international conferences regarding biodegradation and compostability of packaging systems, the environmental footprint assessment of packaging using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies, and the creation and design of sustainable packaging systems. He has authored or coauthored more than 150 publications. Rafael graduated with an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from the National University of Misiones, Argentina, an MS in Materials Science and Technology from the National University of San Martin in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and a PhD in packaging from Michigan State University. He lives in Okemos, Michigan with his wife and 2 sons.

Dr. Auras' publications

Dr. Auras' research website

Instructional activities:

PKG 470. Packaging Sustainability
Course Description: This course provides an understanding of the effects of packaging on the environment, solid waste and pollution issues. Introduction to life cycle assessment (LCA) and determination of environmental footprint indicators using streamlined LCA.

PKG 825. Polymeric Packaging Materials
Course Description: Physical, mechanical and chemical properties of packaging polymers and multilayer structures; relationship between properties and performance of packaging materials and systems; processing of packaging plastics.

PKG 880. Life Cycle Assessment: Background, Principles, Calculations and Applications
Course Description: Determination of the environmental footprint of products and systems during their entire life-cycle using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology; introduction to the theory and application of LCA.

 

 

Rafael Auras

DEPARTMENT INFORMATION

STUDENTS

RESEARCH & TESTING

ALUMNI & GIVING

  • follow us on youtube
  • follow us on instagram
  • follow us on linkedin
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).