Germaine de Capuccini, Petroplast, Ferro, ainia centro tecnológico, and AIMPLAS have succeeded in manufacturing the first prototype of a biodegradable packaging for cosmetics. The challenge of the new packaging lies in replacing the plastics traditionally used in cosmetic product tubes with plastics of natural and biodegradable origin, something complex considering the long lifespan, close to three years, of beauty products compared to the gradual decomposition of biodegradable material.
The prototype, unveiled today, has been manufactured from materials derived from renewable sources, specifically corn starch, beetroot, and sugars. Through fermentative processes and the use of microorganisms, various biodegradable materials with different properties have been obtained and mixed to form the new biodegradable packaging.
After two years of research, the project participants expect that the bio-tube obtained will become organic matter in less than six months and can be treated in a composting plant.
The biodegradation process begins upon contact with microorganisms under composting conditions, which find a carbon source in these materials to thrive. This presents an alternative to the current environmental management of cosmetic packaging waste, which is primarily based on recycling.
Flexible packaging that preserves the properties of the cosmetic cream
Through the combination of different biodegradable materials, we are working for the first time to ensure that the packaging lasts throughout the entire long lifecycle of a cosmetic product, estimated at three years.
Furthermore, we have managed to maintain the properties of cosmetic creams by incorporating functions that preserve the scent and protect the product from moisture, thus preventing product weight loss. The bio-tube is completely flexible, just like conventional cream packaging.
“Natural packaging” for “natural cosmetics”
The packaging will contain a selection of natural cosmetics compatible with the achieved bioplastic. To achieve this, products based on active principles of vitamin C, a sunscreen filter, and a multiprotection facial cream made from organic white tea have been analyzed. Germain de Capuccini company expects to launch these products to the market in the second half of this year.
Manufacturing validation
For its creation, the requirements of cosmetics regarding their packaging material have been determined by analyzing, through a combination of biodegradable material types, those most compatible with the product’s requirements.
Subsequently, tests have been conducted to validate the properties of the material, manufacturing technology, and the behavior of the packaging in contact with creams through accelerated studies under extreme temperature and humidity conditions.
Project
The project, supported by the CDTI, represents a breakthrough not only for its ability to biodegrade without environmental impact but also for achieving, for the first time, total compatibility between this type of packaging and cosmetic products.
Consortium partners
- Germaine de Capuccini (Alcoi – Alicante), a leading brand in the cosmetic sector. The company based in Alcoy holds a current market share of 37%. It maintains a significant export trajectory of 45 years, endorsed by the trust of 18,000 Beauty Centers and Spas from over 80 countries across five continents. The company dedicates significant resources to R&D and has positioned itself through its commitment to the environment and sustainability.
- Ferro Corporation, (Almazora-Castellón) has been the company responsible for developing the appropriate blend of biodegradable materials. Ferro Corporation is a leading global provider of high-performance materials for manufacturers. Their materials are targeted at a wide range of end markets, including construction, appliances, electronics, home furnishings, industrial and automotive products. Their commitment to innovation as a strategy for differentiation and competitiveness is clear and is part of their corporate culture.
- Petroplast (Logroño – La Rioja), one of the leading companies in the development of plastic tubes for various sectors such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. To develop this new packaging, Petroplast adapts its industrial manufacturing process to the new characteristics of the biodegradable material. Petroplast mainly serves manufacturers and packagers in the cosmetics, dermopharmacy, perfumery, amenities, DIY, lubricants, and other diverse applications such as shoe creams, dishwasher detergents, cat food, or any other product that can be packaged. Innovation is a constant in its trajectory.
- The AINIA-AIMPLAS alliance: They have provided technological support to the companies in the consortium, contributing their experience and know-how to the consortium’s companies. The ainia-Aimplas alliance is a top-level European reference in R&D in packaging. It integrates the know-how of AIMPLAS (Plastics Technology Institute) in R&D in biopolymers and their processing, with the applied knowledge and experience of ainia in R&D in packaging materials for food and cosmetics.
