Overview

• Cellulose nanofibers embedded between polylactic acid layers give the LEAFF film tensile strength that exceeds polyethylene and polypropylene
• The multilayer design provides low water and air permeability and a printable surface to extend food shelf life and cut labeling costs
• LEAFF breaks down into harmless organic compounds at room temperature, removing the need for industrial composting facilities
• The refined PLA-based film was detailed in a paper published July 28 in Nature Communications
• The research team plans to convert agricultural residues, food waste and CO₂ into bioplastic feedstocks as it pursues industry partnerships to commercialize the material