Biodegradation and physical evaluation of PHB packaging

The potential for the use of poly[3-hydroxybutyrate] (PHB) as packaging for food products was studied. The polymer, through the injection process, was used for the manufacture of 500 mL packaging (jar-cap set). The performance of the packaging was evaluated through physical tests (visual analysis and light transmission), comparing it with polypropylene (PP) packaging; migration tests of packaging components; and biodegradation assays. The problems identified during the production of the PHB packaging were addressed through adjusting the manufacturing process in terms of the kind of mold and the PHB structure used. The packaging acted as an efficient barrier to light transmission in the range of 250-350 nm. The biodegradation was effective in different environments for periods of up to 60 days. The results demonstrated the great potential for the use of PHB as a material for food packaging.