Utilising a common market ready PET polymer, TUS accessed the feasibility of the colourings developed during the ECOPRO project, using a current industrial manufacturing process, In addition a biodegradable polymer, PLA, was used for the tray prototype production at Centexbel to evaluate the feasibility of the developed colourings processability in a biodegradable material.
Process 1: TUS pilot production of the food tray as a product prototype.
The production of custom-coloured food trays were developed by blending colours created during the ECOPRO project. Utilising polymer PET through twin-screw extrusion to ensure consistent colour distribution. The coloured PET was then pelletized and dried to eliminate moisture before being injected into moulds to form a prototype tray.
This method resulted in durable, high-quality trays that are both visually striking and functional, allowing for precise customisation in terms of colour and design.
The end product combines aesthetic appeal with the strength and recyclability of PET, offering both practical and environmental advantages.
Process 2: Centexbel pilot production of the food tray as a product prototype.
In partnership with the Centexbel Research Institute in Ghent, Belgium, food trays were developed using biodegradable coloured PLA. Blending colorants into PLA resin using sheet film extrusion, the products were thermoformed to their final tray prototype. Firstly, both the PLA and colorants were first dried to remove moisture, after which the mixture was extruded into thin sheets via sheet film extrusion. These sheets were then heated and moulded into food trays by thermoforming
