Advanced Films and Packaging

Student researcher working with plastic film

We are developing the next generation in packaging solutions. Our researchers are exploring ways to make food packaging smart enough to detect spoilage or give food cues to ripen to help extend shelf life. We’re working on ways to make pharmaceutical containers easier for aging patients to use and yet still safe and tamper-proof. And from food to medication to consumer products, we’re developing sustainable innovations to cut down on plastic waste.

Our work in this area is based on research pioneered in CLiPS, the National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center for Layered Polymeric Systems led by Case Western Reserve Researchers. Our research themes address emerging priorities like:

  • Safety and Security: damage mitigation, anti-counterfeiting and smart packaging
  • Selective Molecular and Material Transport: gas and/or moisture barrier materials; and tailored permeability
  • Surfaces and Interfaces: adaptable, programmable and responsive packaging; haptic interactions and damage resistance
  • Sustainability: renewable materials; light-weighting; novel processing methods; life cycle considerations; and design logic

Institutes, centers and labs related to Advanced Films and Packaging

Nano Tech

Advincula Research Group

Develops ultrathin or superhydrophobic film coatings, packaging films using nanocomposites and other needs of the oil and gas industry.

Faculty who conduct research in Advanced Films and Packaging

Profile Photo

Eric Baer

Distinguished University Professor
Herbert Henry Dow Professor of Science and Engineering
Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering
Director, NSF Center for Layered Polymeric Systems

Develops processing-structure-property relationships in polymeric systems; creates micro- and nano-layered films; and produces biomimetic hierarchical structures of soft materials

Profile Photo

Joao Maia

Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering
Director, CAPP - Center for Advanced Polymer Processing

Develops multi-scale, complex polymer-based materials, using both experimental and computational-based tools

Profile Photo

David Schiraldi

Professor Emeritus, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops bio-based, flame-retarded plastics, polymer aerogels and packaging materials; and studies properties of polyesters

Anon Photo

Gary Wnek

Department Chair, Macromolecular Science and Engineering
Joseph F. Toot, Jr., Professor of Engineering
Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops advanced polymers for packaging, biomaterial applications and more.

Profile Photo

Lei Zhu

Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops high-energy and high-performance polymers based on close relationships among structure, property and processing