Materials and technologies – February 2026
Shapeshifting materials could power the next generation of soft robots
Research at McGill University has shown how simple, paper-like sheets made from folded graphene oxide (GO) can be turned into tiny devices that walk, twist, flip and sense their own motion. The structures may act simultaneously as robotic actuators that move and sensors that measure movement.
Amazon India aims to turn farm waste into recyclable packaging
A research project at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee aims to convert crop waste like wheat, straw, and sugarcane residue into high quality paper mailers for Amazon. The resulting lightweight yet strong packaging materials are said to be offering a recyclable and home-compostable alternative to traditional wood pulp paper or plastic bags.
Bonding smart, releasing smarter: clay accelerates development of a reversible glue
Newcastle University (NU) has made a significant step forward in research on glues that bond strongly, however also may release swiftly on demand. Keyword: clay. Clays are commonly used as thickening agents to inhibit dripping, their addition to the NU process also had the remarkable effect of enabling debonding without the need for two separate formulations.
Demonstrating PCR plastic safety in personal care packaging
A consortium of businesses from Norway including Norner has researched the field of guaranteeing PCR plastic safety in personal care packaging. The study involved a comparative analysis of bottles made from 100% virgin HDPE, 100% PCR HDPE, and hybrid designs (including blends of virgin and PCR materials as well as multi-layer constructions).
PLASRECO project for PFAS-less coatings in packaging
The PLASRECO project led by AIMPLAS the has been launched in Spain. The project proposes the development of PFAS-free, silicon-based functional coatings applied using atmospheric plasma technology. This technique allows the deposition of nanometric layers, significantly reducing the use of chemicals and improving the sustainability of the process, notably in packaging and textiles applications..
Key insights on AI and future packaging materials and test methods revealed
Four key presentations and a unique AI augmented joint workshop for all participants shaped the Thematic Meeting of the NVC 72nd General Meeting of Members that took place 27 November 2025. The event revealed a wealth of insights on the future of packaging materials and their test and characterisation methods. You can access the presentations and the recording.
The 73rd NVC GMM will take place 26 November 2026 with the finalists of the 33rd edition of packaging innovation contest De Gouden Noot on display for everyone to touch.
Researchers break materials theory with new type of plastic
Researchers at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) have developed a new type of plastic that, according to materials theory, should not be able to exist. Its properties sit somewhere between those of glass and plastic: it is easy to (re)shape, yet resistant to impact.
NVC members receive this information with all the relevant links in the monthly NVC Members-only Update. If you have any questions, please contact us: info@nvc.nl, +31-(0)182-512411