Nano Bricks - An EcoFriendly Packaging Alternative

It seems that nanotechnology has an application everywhere. This fast growing sub branch of engineering has a solution to almost every problem. Now, scientists have come up with a nano material that has a few constituents similar to those used for making bricks. However, these so-called “Nano-Bricks” are not used for construction but as a packaging material for food products ranging from ready to eat sausages to soft drinks and sodas. Layers of these nano-bricks can be coated on the inner surface of the plastic packets, cans and bottles to extend the shelf life of the food products or beverages. Researchers have tested that when the layers of this material are coated on the inside of the plastic packets, the products inside tend to remain fresher and tastier. For example, soda in ordinary bottles becomes less bubbly after a few months in the grocery store. If this same bottle is given a protective layer of nano bricks on the surface which is in contact with the drink, then the soda will retain its fizz for a considerably longer period.

Another important application of this material is that it can greatly improve the shelf life of MREs (Meal, ready to eat) which are portable food packages that are given to the soldiers during war time. The nano bricks can sustain the harsh conditions on the field. Since this material is non metallic, it provides the added advantage of direct microwaving. This material is a viable substitute for metalized plastic packages because they have two major drawbacks which are lack of transparency and microwavibility.

Currently, the manufacturers are using different types of packaging materials such as plastics coated with silicon oxide or plastics with a coating of metalized foil. Both these materials are less permeable to oxygen and prevent food spoilage by simply preventing the contact between oxygen and the food particles. Nano bricks are a better alternative as compared to the above mentioned packing materials. It is made by a combination of montmorillonite clay and a few plastic polymers. The final product is a nano layer which is 70% clay and 30% plastic. Hence it is more eco friendly. A single layer is less than 100 nanometers in thickness which is thousands of times thinner than a human hair! Interestingly, its completely transparent to our eyes. So you must be wondering why it is called a nano brick. The reason is that when it’s viewed under an electron microscope, it appears as a layer of bricks and mortar .It has an extremely well organized structure which seems to be highly impenetrable for oxygen. Researchers are trying to make it more moisture resistant and antimicrobial to make it a dream replacement for the contemporary packing materials.

Besides food packing, this novel material can be used in a variety of applications such as stretchable electronics, rugged tires, sports gear, etc.