As group leader of the Bio-Inspired Materials Group (The Group) within the University of Queensland, Dr Nasim Amiralian’s world-leading research targets the significant challenge of the global plastic packaging and agricultural waste issues.
The Group has developed a fully bio-based and biodegradable lignocellulosic bioplastic from sugarcane trash and demonstrated its effectiveness as packaging materials. The bioplastic uses a single-step, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method which enhances productivity and significantly improves the mechanical properties crucial for the paper-based packaging industry. The material also has high barrier properties against oxygen, oil, and water, helping it extend the shelf-life of fresh foods. By eliminating petrochemical and synthetic barrier coatings, this technology increases biodegradability and environmental safety. It can be compostable or recycled alongside commercially available fibre packaging (e.g. cardboard boxes) and significantly improves their strength.
Dr Amiralian sees the Catalyst Program as a key step to helping achieve the goal of establishing a national, state of the art facility dedicated to cutting-edge research and development of novel biomaterials using materials derived from agricultural waste. It’s an initiative she hopes could expand industry capacity through programs like industry-linked PhDs, while creating opportunities to attract, train and retain early and mid-career researchers to drive innovation and sustainable growth of the sector.