Scientists at the University of Queensland have invented a way which they claim can help in the production of waterproof papers by utilising the cellulose in unused sugarcane plant material.
According to lead scientist Dr Bill Doherty, the untapped "green" potential of sugarcane's biomass is enormous and extremely exciting for the sugarcane industry, which now can be used to produce waterproof papers.
"Our work is revealing how we may actually use more of the entire sugarcane plant, millions of tonnes of unused plant matter (or biomass), for future manufacturing and energy production of which waterproof cardboard might provide just one very promising commercial option," Dr Doherty said.
The process requires the extraction of cellulose (taken from the cane biomass) and then combined with new fermentation technology to make a type of lignin that would form the basis of a waterproof coating for variety of papers.
"Our process would potentially allow sugarcane growers and mills to team up with paper manufacturers to produce an internationally sought-after waterproof and biodegradable products — all made from natural materials and all 100 per cent recyclable and environmentally friendly.
"Across the globe, food and beverage manufacturers are dependent on paper based packaging and cardboard to store and transport their goods safely to the consumer.
"Today, the only available technology to manufacturers is cardboard coated with a petroleum-based wax which renders the packaging non-recyclable or petroleum based plastics. Fully recyclable, waterproof paper board could reduce billions of tonnes of landfill around the world," Dr Doherty said.
